A plug and play hot tub, also known as a portable spa, is a convenient way to enjoy a spa experience at home without major installation. However, these tubs are still large, heavy, and awkwardly shaped, making them challenging to move. With some preparation and the right techniques, moving a portable hot tub is manageable.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to safely relocating your plug and play hot tub.
How to Move a Plug and Play Hot Tub?
Preparing for the Move
Before attempting to move your hot tub, you’ll need to drain it and disconnect any wiring. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time, as draining alone can take hours.
Draining the Tub
Draining a hot tub prepares it for a safe, lightweight move. Here’s the process:
- Turn off the power to the hot tub at the breaker
- Locate the drain valve, usually at the base
- Connect a garden hose to the drain valve to channel water away
- Twist open the drain valve and allow the tub to fully drain
With no water weighing it down, the empty portable spa will be lighter to move.
Read more about draining a hot tub
Disconnecting the Electrical Cord
Portable hot tubs run on an electrical cord that will need to be removed before moving and replugged at the tub’s new location.
- Unplug the electrical cord from the outlet
- Locate the connection at the hot tub
- Unscrew the cable connector to detach the cord
Once unplugged, the hot tub can be transported safely without any wiring issues.
Moving Techniques and Equipment
The actual process of moving a plug-and-play hot tub requires careful coordination and often specialty moving equipment to avoid damage and injuries.
| Equipment | Weight Capacity | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Lifting by Hand | 500 lbs or less | Short, flat distances |
| Specialty Dolly | 500-2000 lbs | Flat or moderate terrain |
| Tow Dolly | 2000+ lbs | Long distances, uneven terrain |
Lifting and Rolling
A small portable spa may be light enough for two or three strong people to gently lift using the built-in handles and then carefully roll on its side to its new home right outside. This manual technique works for short distances on flat terrain.
Using a Dolly
The best way to move any sizable hot tub is by placing it securely on a specialty dolly designed for bulky, awkward loads. Use straps to fasten the portable spa to the dolly, taking care to protect its siding. With two people steering the dolly, the hot tub can be transported moderate distances over flat ground. Use ramps to help load the tub onto the dolly base.
With Furniture Dolly:
- Set the drained tub on a dolly with straps securing it
- 2 people carefully steer the dolly to the new site over flat terrain
- Use ramps to help load the tub into the site or truck
Using a Tow Dolly
For larger plug and play spas or longer moves over uneven ground, a heavy-duty tow dolly that hitches to a pickup truck or SUV is needed. Proper strapping and care are essential when using this method, along with slow speeds and smooth braking to protect the hot tub’s structure. A tow dolly can manage weights over 2,000 pounds.
With Tow Dolly:
- Fasten drained tub tightly to tow dolly using straps
- Attach tow dolly to truck or SUV hitch
- Drive slowly and steadily to a new location
- Gently roll the tub off using the ramps
Preparing the Setup Location
Before bringing your portable hot tub to its new home, you’ll need to make sure the location is properly prepped and ready for setup.
Checking Dimensions
Verify exact measurements of the space intended for your hot tub, accounting for the tub’s full diameter with 2 feet of clear access space around the perimeter. This ensures proper clearance is available.
Leveling the Surface
Use a level tool to determine if the surface is evenly flat and ready for placement. For mild unevenness, shims can help level the area where the hot tub will sit. More serious unevenness requires grading the earth or laying cement blocks.
Providing Access
Consider if a clear pathway is available to bring the empty portable spa to its new site. Fences or gates may need removal, with sufficient space to maneuver specialty dollies and equipment.
Readying Electrical Hookups
Have a grounded, GFCI-protected 220-volt outlet ready near the hot tub’s new location. Extension cords cannot substitute for a permanent hookup.
Finalizing the Hot Tub’s Setup
After being positioned in its new home, finish setting up the tub properly before refilling.
- Ensure the tub is level and stable
- Reconnect the GFCI electrical cord
- Refill the tub slowly with a garden hose
- Power on and add chemicals per manual
With some help and the right equipment, even a heavy hot tub can be transported successfully to enhance your enjoyment. Pay attention at each step, and soon you’ll be relaxing in your spa again!
