Can a Swim Spa Be Moved?

You know if you move houses and you have a pool, that pool is not coming with you. Can your swim spa? 

Yes, swim spas are moveable. That’s one of their greatest perks. Your swim spa can be emptied, lifted off its concrete pad and placed on another, as you like. 

We are asked about that often while people are shopping for swim spas at Hydropool. A swim spa has been around since the 1980s, but for many people they are still a new product. 

But like with other large items like pianos, swim spas do need special care when it comes to moving them. If not, since they are extremely heavy, there is a chance that someone could be injured or that the shell of the spa could be cracked. So in this article we will take a look at the following: 

• How to move a swim spa.
• How to move a swim spa without a crane.
• How much does it cost to move a swim spa.
• What could go wrong when moving a swim spa? 

Hopefully, by the end, you’ll have a strong understanding of how swim spas can be moved (and how). 

 

 

How Can You Move a Swim Spa?

Here are our suggested steps on how to move a swim spa:

• Sweat the Details

You need to make sure that you provide your movers with accurate information about the make and model of your swim spa so that they can prepare. Your mover will need to review the size of your swim spa to determine if the shell or other components need to be removed to fit on the truck and what special tools may be required. As every swim spa is different, they must be provided with this information (and if they don’t ask when you’re booking, hang up and find another mover). Otherwise, they may not be prepared to move your 19-foot model with an attached hot tub if they are assuming that it is a tiny swim-lane-only model.

• Drain and Clean

You cannot move a swim spa with water in it, so you’ll want to make sure that it is properly drained and cleaned before it’s journey. Most swim spas will connect to a garden hose to slowly drain the water without flooding your yard. After it has been drained, follow your manufacturer's care instructions to perform a detailed cleaning and ensure all excess water droplets have been removed.

• Clear the Path

It is important to make sure that your swim spa can easily be transported from your backyard to the moving truck. Make sure that any obstacles are cleared and that you take accurate measurements to ensure there is enough space to move via a pathway, alleyway or from the side of your home. While hard to control, a dry sunny day is best for moving so that the ground isn’t wet, and the movers do not slip. If your pathway is unstable, lay down wooden slats for better stability.

Although you may want to help, it is best to stay clear and let the professionals do their job. They have experience moving swim spas and other heavy items and know exactly what to do. 

How to Move a Swim Spa: With and Without a Crane

There are several ways to move a swim spa. 

• A swim spa can be placed on multiple furniture dollies, secured and then rolled to a new location.
• A swim spa can be lifted with a forklift, and placed in a new location, or on a flatbed truck or trailer and moved. 
• A crane can be brought it to do the job, lifting the swim spa into a new location or onto a truck where it can be moved. 

Your swim spa should be secured with tie-downs and blankets to protect it during transport.

How Much Does it Cost to Move a Swim Spa?

Hydropool uses Hot Tub Service Plus for its moves within the Greater Toronto Area. Its costs in the GTA are $700, including pick-up and delivery within the GTA. This is in addition to any crane charges which can range from $1500- $3000. A crane is part of every move by Hot Tub Service Plus. 

For your location, costs will vary depending on where you are and how far the move will be. This is best checked with a local retailer if you’re looking for a move. Find one here. 

What Could Go Wrong When Moving a Swim Spa?

1. Damage to the Spa: One of the biggest risks when moving a swim spa is the potential for damage to the spa itself. Swim spas are typically made of durable materials, but they can still be susceptible to cracks or other damage if not handled carefully during the moving process. This can be particularly risky if the spa is dropped or mishandled during loading or unloading. This is another reason to trust moves to professionals. 

2. Injury to People: Even without water, swim spas are extremely heavy and can weigh several thousand pounds, making them difficult to maneuver. If not done properly, moving a swim spa can result in serious injury to the personnel involved in the moving process. This is especially true if proper equipment, such as lifting straps or dollies, are not used to assist in moving the spa.

3. Damage to Property: In addition to the risk of damage to the swim spa itself, there is also a risk of damage to the property during the moving process. This can include damage to the spa's surroundings, such as landscaping or fencing, as well as damage to the interior or exterior of the home if the spa needs to be moved through tight spaces.

4. Improper Installation: Once the swim spa has been moved to its new location, there is a risk of improper installation if not done correctly. This can include issues with leveling the spa, connecting it to the electrical or water supply, or ensuring that it is properly secured in its new location. Improper installation can lead to performance issues or damage to the spa over time.

5. Cost Overruns: Moving a swim spa can be an expensive process, especially if additional equipment or services are required, such as crane rental or professional movers. There is a risk of cost overruns if the moving process is not properly planned and executed. It's important to consider all potential costs upfront to avoid any surprises during the moving process.

Should I Move My Swim Spa?

The ability to move a swim spa is one of the key advantages of owning one. Unlike traditional pools, swim spas can be emptied, lifted, and transported to a new location, providing flexibility for homeowners who may need to relocate. However, it is important to approach the moving process with caution and care, as there are potential risks involved, such as damage to the spa, injury to personnel, and property damage.

By following the proper steps outlined in this article, such as draining and cleaning the swim spa, securing it for transport, and enlisting the help of experienced professionals, you can ensure that your swim spa is moved safely and securely. Additionally, being aware of the potential risks and challenges that may arise during the moving process can help you plan and budget accordingly to avoid any unexpected issues.

While there are costs involved in moving a swim spa, the convenience and versatility of being able to take your swim spa with you when you move is a valuable benefit. With the right preparation and assistance, you can enjoy your swim spa in your new location without the need to invest in a new one, which is a great perk. 

We hope this article answers your questions about moving your swim spa! If we missed anything, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us by clicking here.