How to Get Rid of a Hot Tub | M&D Hauling Sacramento

An old hot tub can be a major headache, taking up too much space, draining your utility bills, or simply no longer working. If you're wondering how to get rid of a hot tub, you're not alone. Removing a hot tub is a big job that involves plumbing, heavy lifting, junk disposal, and sometimes cutting the tub into smaller pieces. But with the right steps, it doesn’t have to be a hassle.



Whether you're replacing your spa, upgrading to a new hot tub, or reclaiming your backyard, this guide walks you through every stage of the hot tub removal process, from drain spout to recycling center.

How Much Space Does a Typical Hot Tub Take?

The average hot tub is about 7 feet long, 7 feet wide, and 3 feet deep. Some indoor hot tub units or jacuzzis are smaller, but even a compact spa weighs hundreds of pounds when empty. Before you get started, consider the size of the hot tub and whether your property has easy access for removal.

Step 1: Drain the Tub and Disconnect Utilities

Before any hot tub disposal services begin, your first step is to fully drain the tub. Use the drain spout to empty the water into a safe area away from plants and foundations. Then, disconnect:



• Power supply: Turn off the breaker and unplug or hardwire disconnect.
• Plumbing: Shut off water and detach pipes.
• Heater & pump: Remove any remaining water in the heater and internal systems.

This step ensures safety during the hot tub removal and avoids property damage.

Step 2: Assess the Complexity of the Removal

Is your tub built into a deck? Does it include custom plumbing, a built-in whirlpool, or reinforced fiberglass panels? The complexity of the removal matters. A freestanding jacuzzi on a patio is much easier to move than a sunken indoor hot tub surrounded by tile.

Ask yourself:

• Can it be removed in one piece?
• Will it require demolition services?
• Is there enough room for a junk pickup truck?

Step 3: Break Down the Tub (If Necessary)

If the old tub can’t be removed in one piece, you may need to cut it into smaller pieces using tools like:

• Reciprocating saw
• Crowbar
• Screwdriver or flathead
• Utility knife
• Heavy-duty gloves and safety gear



Break down internal components, remove the hot tub cover, and disassemble small parts like jets, wiring, and partition panels. Watch out for sharp edges and always wear protective gear.

Step 4: Sort Materials for Disposal or Recycling

Different parts of the old hot tub need different disposal methods:

• Plastic & fiberglass: Often go to a landfill, unless a recycling center accepts them.
• Metal & copper wiring: Recyclable.
• Electronics or heater: May require special junk disposal.
• Wood cabinets: Can often be broken down and recycled.



You may be able to drop off parts at local recycling centers or coordinate with hot tub disposal services to handle it all at once.

What If My Hot Tub Is Still in Good Working Condition?

If your tub works, consider alternatives to disposal:

• Donate to local charities or schools
• Sell through online marketplaces
• Contact professional removal services that offer relocation
• Call local junk removal companies who work with donation partners



A hot tub in good working condition may still be valuable to someone else.

How Do Local Regulations Impact Hot Tub Removal?

f you’re in Sacramento or the Bay Area, local regulations may affect how you dispose of certain components, especially those with electronics or refrigerants. Many areas prohibit dumping tubs in curbside residential bulky waste collections.

Check with:

• Sacramento County Waste Management
• California’s CalRecycle guidelines
• City of Folsom, Granite Bay, or Citrus Heights collection services

Always verify rules for junk, recycling, and spa disposal to avoid fines.

How Much Does Hot Tub Removal Cost?

Hot Tub Removal Pricing: What Should You Expect?

Hot tub disposal pricing depends on several factors:

• Size of the tub
• Location and ease of access
• Complexity of the removal
• Whether disassembly or demolition is required
• Local regulations and fees



On average, professional removal services charge between $300 and $600. Always ask for upfront pricing or a free quote before starting.

Common Tools Needed for DIY Removal

• Pair of pliers
• Utility knife
• Reciprocating saw
• Screwdriver / flathead
• Gloves
• Eye protection
• Sledgehammer (optional)
• Trash bags or bins for junk

When Should You Call a Professional?

If your tub is built into your deck, surrounded by fragile landscaping, or involves heavy lifting, you may want to leave it to professionals. A trained hot tub removal service can:

• Avoid injury or damage
• Haul away and sort junk
• Navigate local regulations
• Provide proper disposal service
• Handle all the heavy lifting



Professionals take care of the hard parts and leave you with a clean space.

What Happens to the Tub After Removal?

Once your hot tub is gone, what happens next?

• Recyclable parts are taken to a recycling center
• Remaining debris goes to a certified landfill
• Working units may be refurbished or donated
• Metal and wiring may be stripped and reused
• Hazardous parts are disposed of according to local regulations



Proper hot tub disposal ensures you meet state laws and protect the environment.

Can You Leave Your Old Tub at the Curb?

In most places, no. Curbside junk pickup doesn’t include large items like hot tubs, spa removals, or jacuzzi systems. You’ll need to arrange special junk hauling or disposal service to remove the unit safely.

The Best Way to Get Rid of a Hot Tub in Sacramento

Removing an old hot tub is a big job, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you plan to take it apart yourself or hire a professional removal service, understanding each step helps you stay safe, avoid hidden costs, and do your part for the environment.

When you're ready for full-service, hassle-free hot tub removal in Sacramento, contact M&D Hauling. We offer expert junk removal, fast pickups, and responsible tub disposal at fair, upfront pricing. We’ll handle the complexity of the removal—you get the clean space and peace of mind.



Call M&D Hauling today to schedule your Sacramento hot tub removal. We'll show up, break it down, and take care of the rest.