Have you ever wondered how much a hot tub weighs or how to move one from your backyard to the deck?  

The short answer is that we don’t recommend moving it without professional help. An average 56-square-foot hot tub can weigh around 900 pounds without water. Fill it up, and you're looking at a staggering 6,000 pounds. That's a lot of weight to consider if you're considering moving your luxurious hot tub around your home.

The issues involve the risk of injury and potential damage to the equipment and your property. Let’s get into the specifics. 

Factors That Affect a Hot Tub’s Weight

Understanding the factors that affect a hot tub’s overall weight is essential, especially when deciding whether to move a spa solo or employ professional hot tub movers. Let's examine the main factors you’ll want to consider.

Size & Capacity

Hot tubs come in many sizes, and it's crucial to appreciate that the weight can fluctuate based on the size and capacity of the tub. An empty hot tub can weigh anywhere from 500 to 1000 pounds. However, this weight shoots up once the tub is filled with water. Here is a brief rundown on average hot tub weights:

Remember, these values are approximations, and the weight might vary depending on the make and model. Also, it’s advisable to always transport a hot tub unfilled versus filled. 

Construction Materials

The weight of a hot tub can vary significantly depending on the construction materials used. For instance, hot tubs made of lightweight materials like acrylic or fiberglass tend to be lighter than those constructed with heavier materials such as concrete or wood (hardwood models equal extra pounds). Additionally, the weight distribution and thickness of the materials also play a crucial role in determining the overall weight of the hot tub.

Additional Features

The size and number of additional features, such as jets, speakers, and insulation, can also contribute to a hot tub's total weight. While the weight of individual jets may be relatively small, the cumulative effect of multiple jets can be significant, especially in larger hot tub models. Built-in speakers for audio systems are also likely to add weight to a hot tub.

When it comes to insulation, these materials, such as foam or fiberglass, are present to improve the home spa’s energy efficiency and maintain the water temperature. The impact of insulation on the total weight of the hot tub may vary depending on the thickness and type.

The Challenges of Moving a Hot Tub

When relocating a hot tub, there are essential weight considerations to bear. The size and complexity of the object, as well as the unpredictability of the move, make it a significant challenge.

• Hot tubs are heavy. Among the primary obstacles in moving a spa solo is the sheer mass. We're talking about thousands of pounds, enough to require sturdy structural support during and after the move.
• You need the proper equipment. This includes a truck or trailer large enough to carry the hot tub and transport equipment, such as dollies and straps designed to handle the weight.

• It requires careful planning. This includes ensuring the proper space requirements during every phase of transport, such as accounting for any narrow pathways that could necessitate hot tub transport on its side. 
• You may have to reschedule renters. If you’d like to move your hot tub at your Airbnb or rental property, you may have to reschedule a few visitors or block off bookings for a few days.
• Local regulations may apply. Your municipality may have rules or guidelines concerning hot tub installation and removal.

Selecting a New Location

Determining a new, safe, and stable location for your hot tub is a significant challenge. When selecting a surface to support the total weight of a filled hot tub, it's essential to choose a level, sturdy, and load-bearing surface. Concrete pads, reinforced decks, or specially designed hot tub pads are often best. 

Ensure the surface is prepared correctly level. It can withstand the weight of the hot tub, water, and occupants, typically ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 pounds or more, depending on the size and capacity of the hot tub. Consulting with a structural engineer or a professional installer can provide specific recommendations based on your hot tub's requirements and your property's conditions.

Moving a Hot Tub by Yourself

Moving a hot tub solo presents unique challenges due to the hefty weight considerations. While you can do it without hiring professional hot tub movers, you must take specific steps and precautions to ensure everyone’s safety and avoid property damage.

Safety Precautions

• Never move a hot tub alone. Enlist the help of at least three friends. If this isn't possible, we strongly advise consulting professionals.
• Empty the tub before moving it. This will drastically reduce the hot tub’s weight and prevent spillage and potential water damage.
• Avoid putting the tub’s total weight on its control panel. This can result in irreversible damage.

Equipment Needed

You'll require the correct set of hot tub transport equipment to undertake a successful hot tub relocation. These include:

• 4-wheeled furniture dollies
• An appliance dolly
• 4x4 wood pieces
• Moving straps

It's crucial to note that if your hot tub is still under warranty, moving it yourself might void this agreement. Be sure to confirm this detail with your hot tub supplier. Also, challenges could arise during the process, so having a professional on speed dial might prove to be a lifesaver.

DIY vs. Professional Movers

Hiring professional hot tub movers may seem extravagant, but it could be justified under certain circumstances. Suppose you have a more oversized hot tub. In that case, these professionals can handle heavier weights and larger dimensions without a hitch.

Your new site for the hot tub might also require special site preparation, like ensuring adequate structural support. In that case, a professional can provide expert guidance. They are also better equipped to handle hot tub installation challenges, such as fine-tuning the base.

Even with a larger crew to distribute the load, the risks involved in DIY can be high if you attempt it without proper knowledge of hot tub lifting techniques. Remember, it's not only about protecting the hot tub from damage — it’s also about your safety.

Preparing Your Hot Tub for the Move

After assessing the hot tub weight considerations and deciding between DIY hot tub moving or hiring professional hot tub movers, it's vital to properly prepare the hot tub for relocation. Here are a few essential steps recommended for a successful move.

• Drain the hot tub. Following the manufacturer's instructions, discharge the water carefully without damaging the surrounding yard's landscape. You’ll need a pump or garden hose to execute this.
• Clean the hot tub. Use an all-purpose cleaner to wipe down the insides, ensuring the spa is neat and ready for the subsequent stages.
• Secure loose components. Ensure all cords and components are put away securely to prevent any hardware from getting damaged or causing accidents during the move. Place the cords in waterproof baggies to keep them dry throughout the process.
• Plan the route. Double-check for any stairs or obstacles and the measurements of your pathway at the old and new sites. This step helps determine the best path for moving the tub without causing damage or increasing your moving-day stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

How challenging is it to relocate a hot tub?

Due to its heavy weight, relocating a hot tub is not a task for one or two individuals. Instead, it requires at least four to six non-disabled people. If you cannot assemble a suitable team, seeking professional assistance for packing and loading is best.

What is the typical weight of an empty hot tub?

Generally, a small hot tub, suitable for two to three people, weighs about 500 pounds when empty. In contrast, a more oversized hot tub, accommodating up to six people, weighs around 1,000 pounds. A medium-sized hot tub would weigh approximately 750 pounds when empty.

What are the steps to relocate a solid hot tub?

It is advisable to use a dolly designed for moving heavy objects. Ensure that the dolly can withstand the tub's weight and that its wheels can maneuver through the terrain where you'll be relocating the tub.