How to Lift a Spa Without Damaging It
Are you moving house and need to take your spa or hot tub with you? Or perhaps you've just bought a new one and are unsure how to get it to where it should be safely? Maybe your hot tub needs to be relocated in the backyard, but you’re concerned about how to lift it without causing any damage.
Whatever the reason, the complexity of lifting a spa or hot tub is compounded by the need for precision and caution, as any missteps could result in damage or even injury. It’s not just about brute force. It’s about technique, safety, and the right equipment.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the steps and considerations you need to ensure your hot tub stays intact throughout the move. From understanding the weight and structure of your spa to exploring professional solutions like mobile crane hire, we’ve covered everything here.
Understanding the Challenges of Lifting a Spa Pool
Spas or hot tubs are heavy, awkwardly shaped, and often made of materials that might seem durable on the surface but are actually quite fragile. The weight alone of an empty hot tub can range from 200kg to over 1,000kg depending on the model. That’s a lot to handle! Other than that, hot tubs contain intricate parts like plumbing, jets, and electrical systems. If not lifted properly, these components can be damaged, costing you more than just the move itself.
Let’s explore the right ways to lift a spa or move a hot tub without damaging it.
1. Assess the Situation: Where Are You Lifting the Spa To?
Before you even think about moving your spa or hot tub, carefully assess the situation. Where does the spa need to go? Is it being moved across town, into your backyard, or onto a deck? Each scenario requires a different approach.
For short distances, a few strong hands and some simple tools might suffice to safely move a hot tub. However, for more complicated moves — such as relocating a spa pool over a house or into a backyard with limited access — a more strategic solution like using heavy lifting equipment is ideal. Make sure to evaluate whether any obstacles, such as fences, trees, or power lines, may make it more challenging to move a hot tub.
2. Gather the Right Equipment for Lifting
If you’ve decided to take on the task yourself, make sure you have the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Moving straps: These will help secure the spa or hot tub during the lift.
- Use furniture dollies: Furniture dollies are ideal for moving the spa across flat surfaces.
- At least 4 strong people: Lifting a spa pool is not a one-person job. The more hands you have, the better and safer the task will be.
Be aware that using the wrong equipment could lead to damage. The last thing you want is to crack the shell or damage the plumbing. If you don't have any of the above tools available, chances are you can buy them from your local home improvement store.
3. The Importance of Proper Lifting Techniques
Spa or hot tub lifting is not just about brute force. It’s about technique and coordination. Here's how to approach the lift:
- Lift from the bottom: Ensure the straps are positioned underneath the spa pool for proper support.
- Lift together: Coordination is key. Make sure everyone is lifting the hot tub at the same time and at the same pace.
- Keep it level: Keeping the spa level prevents unnecessary pressure on one side, which could lead to cracking or internal damage.
- Take it slow: Rushing the process is one of the main reasons spas or hot tubs get damaged during lifting, so take it easy.
In order to ensure the safe completion of the job, you must take your time and communicate clearly with the people helping you.
4. Using a Mobile Crane to Lift a Spa
If your spa pool needs to be lifted over an obstacle like a fence, wall, or even a house, the safest and most effective solution is hiring a mobile crane. Mobile cranes are capable of handling heavy loads with precision, making them perfect for lifting spas without causing any damage.
Why Use a Mobile Crane?
- Reduced risk of damage: A mobile crane ensures that the spa pool is lifted evenly and safely.
- Precision placement: Whether you’re lifting the hot tub or spa pool onto a deck or over a building, a mobile crane can place it exactly where you need it.
- Unmatched efficiency: Using a mobile crane is also a more efficient solution. A crane reduces the time and effort required for the job, which in turn allows for quicker and smoother installation.
- Access to difficult areas: In cases where access to the spa’s new location is limited, a crane can lift it over obstacles with ease.
HiLine Cranes, for example, offers reliable crane hire solutions for hot tub or spa lifting. Our cranes can navigate tight spaces and provide a stress-free lifting experience that is safer and more efficient than other methods.
5. Hiring Professionals for the Job
Creating a Detailed Shutdown Plan
When it comes to lifting a spa pool or hot tub, especially for more complex moves, the safest option is always to hire professionals who can bring both the expertise and the equipment to get the job done properly. At HiLine Cranes, our mobile cranes are operated by experienced operators who understand the delicate requirements of spa lifting.
There are various scenarios to consider during the hot tub moving process. One common situation involves loading the spa pool directly into a moving truck. In this case, crane hire ensures the spa is lifted with care and placed securely in the truck without damage. Alternatively, if the spa pool needs to be relocated within a backyard or over a fence before being loaded into a moving truck later, HiLine Cranes can handle both tasks seamlessly. This versatility saves you time and effort, as our team can manage the most complex aspects of the move, which is the lifting part.
Hiring professionals also means peace of mind. You won’t have to worry about your spa pool getting damaged or anyone getting injured during the process. The job is completed with precision, whether you're loading directly into a moving truck or dealing with alternative scenarios that require more intricate manoeuvring. Nothing beats the convenience of professional assistance.
6. Preparing the Spa for the Lift
Before the lift begins, you’ll need to prepare your spa pool:
- Drain the spa: This might seem obvious, but it’s important. The water adds significant weight, so draining it is a must.
- Clean the spa: If it's a used spa, use a garden hose to quickly wash off any dirt or debris on the spa's exterior, interior and components.
- Disconnect the power: Make sure the spa pool is completely disconnected from any electrical sources.
- Cover the spa: If possible, cover the spa pool to protect it from dirt, dust, and debris during the move. Spas typically come with a hot tub cover that's perfect for this situation.
- Clear the path: Make sure the path from the current location to the new location is clear of obstacles.
7. Post-Lift Considerations
Once your spa or hot tub is safely lifted and placed in its new location, there are a few things to check:
- Inspect the spa: Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks in the shell or plumbing issues. Even a professional lift can occasionally lead to minor issues, so it’s always good to check to be on the safer side of things.
- Reinstall the plumbing and electrical: If the spa pool was disconnected, make sure everything is properly reconnected.
- Fill the spa and test: Once everything is in place, fill the spa pool or hot tub and test it to make sure it’s working correctly.
8. How to Avoid Common Mistakes
When lifting a spa pool or hot tub, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Not assessing the weight: Always check the weight of your spa or hot tub before attempting a lift. Overestimating your strength or equipment can lead to serious damage.
- Rushing the process: Taking your time ensures that everything is done safely and properly.
- Underestimating the complexity: What might seem like a simple backyard move could quickly turn into an extremely complex situation if there are obstacles in the way. Know when to call in the professionals.
Why HiLine Cranes Is Your Best Choice for Lifting a Spa Pool or Hot Tub Safely
Lifting a spa or hot tub is no easy feat, but with the proper equipment and techniques, it can be done safely and efficiently. If you’re dealing with a tricky move that requires lifting solutions, or if you’re unsure about how to lift a hot tub or spa without damaging it, HiLine Cranes can help. We have extensive experience with spa lifts and provide mobile crane solutions that guarantee precision, safety, and peace of mind.
Whether you’re moving house, installing a new spa, or simply repositioning a hot tub, we offer the perfect solution. Contact HiLine Cranes today to discuss your spa or hot tub lifting needs and find out how we can assist with your project. We'll do the heavy lifting for you, so you can focus all your attention on enjoying your spa in its new location.
