July 7, 2025
A hot tub can be the centerpiece of a Denver backyard retreat, offering relaxation and a social hub. However, when it’s time for an upgrade or to reclaim your outdoor space, the removal process presents a significant challenge—not just in moving the bulky unit, but in protecting the surrounding lawn, garden, and hardscaping you’ve worked so hard to cultivate. A thoughtless removal can leave behind a trail of damaged turf, cracked pavers, and broken sprinkler heads. With careful planning, you can ensure your landscape remains as pristine as it was before the hot tub was ever there.
Removing a hot tub is a complex task. These units are not only incredibly heavy—often weighing 500 to 1,000 pounds even when empty—but they are also awkwardly shaped and connected to sensitive utilities. The process involves careful disconnection from electrical systems, proper water drainage, and strategic maneuvering through potentially tight spaces. Simply trying to drag a hot tub across a lawn can create deep ruts and destroy established turfgrass. For property managers and homeowners in Denver, preserving the landscape during removal is just as important as the removal itself.
Before any lifting occurs, the hot tub must be completely drained. Hot tub water often contains chlorine or bromine, which can be harmful to lawns and delicate plants. To protect your vegetation, it’s recommended to stop adding chemicals a few days before draining to allow them to dissipate naturally. The water should be directed away from lawns and gardens, ideally towards a storm drain or a gravel area that can handle the volume without flooding. An improper drain can oversaturate and kill grass, leaving a muddy, barren patch.
Determine the safest and least destructive route from the hot tub to the removal vehicle. This involves identifying obstacles like sprinkler heads, landscape lighting, delicate flower beds, and low-hanging tree branches. Temporary removal of small fence sections or gates may be necessary. Clearing this path beforehand prevents last-minute damage and ensures a smoother process. For any branches or organic blockages, professional yard debris removal can help create the necessary space without damaging your property.
Your lawn, patio, and walkways are most at risk during the move. Laying down thick sheets of plywood or durable moving mats creates a temporary, solid path. This distributes the weight of the hot tub and the moving equipment, preventing deep ruts in the grass and protecting pavers or concrete from cracks and scuffs. This small preparatory step is one of the most effective ways to preserve your landscaping.
There are two primary methods for removing a hot tub: carrying it out whole or cutting it into smaller, manageable pieces on-site. The best method depends on access and the condition of the tub.
Regardless of the method, responsible disposal is key. Many hot tub components, including the acrylic shell, pumps, and metal framing, can be recycled. Professional hot tub removal services partner with local facilities to ensure that as much of the unit as possible is diverted from landfills, aligning with Denver’s commitment to sustainability. This includes specialized electronics recycling for control panels and pumps.
Once the hot tub is gone, you’re left with a blank slate. The empty spot, often a concrete or gravel pad, is a perfect opportunity to enhance your outdoor living area. Popular options include creating a new paver patio, installing a fire pit, starting a container garden, or laying fresh sod to extend your lawn. For Denver properties, selecting native plants or hardscaping that complements the local environment can add beauty and value. Proper ground preparation is essential for whatever new feature you choose, ensuring a successful and lasting transformation of your newly acquired space.
Don’t risk damaging your beautiful Denver landscape or injuring yourself. The team at Junk Be Gone has the experience, equipment, and expertise to handle your hot tub removal safely and efficiently. We take every precaution to protect your property and ensure eco-friendly disposal.
A: For safety, it is highly recommended that a licensed electrician handle the disconnection of any hardwired electrical components. If your tub is plug-and-play, you can simply unplug it. Our team can confirm what’s needed before we begin the removal.
A: At Junk Be Gone, we prioritize responsible disposal. We transport the dismantled hot tub to specialized facilities where materials like metal, plastic, and electronics are separated for recycling. Our goal is to keep as much material out of Denver landfills as possible.
A: Most standard hot tub removals can be completed in just a few hours. The exact time depends on the size of the tub, access to the site, and whether it needs to be dismantled.
A: Yes. We have experience removing hot tubs from a variety of complex locations, including raised decks, gazebos, and sunrooms. We assess each situation carefully and use the appropriate techniques and equipment to perform the removal safely without damaging the surrounding structure.
