How to Jack Up a Hot Tub: 2 Quick & Safe Methods
By Jennifer Rhodes · Updated
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Hot tubs are a wonderful addition to a backyard—but they are also heavy. This can be a problem if you ever need to jack them up. The good news is that it's not too hard!
In this post we will go over two different methods for how you can do just that: one with a flat pry bar and another with a hydraulic car jack.
Whether you're adding or replacing a cover lifter, or need to access the area under your spa for repairs, these techniques will help make the process much smoother.
Method 1: Lifting a hot tub with a flat pry bar
Many people who need to jack up their spa are looking to install a cover lifter. These work by sliding flat plates under the spa on either side to secure the cover lifter in place by the weight of the hot tub.
In this case, you probably only need to lift the spa 1/4" inch or so. You can most likely use a flat pry bar. Slip it under one corner to lift the spa just enough to slide the plate under. Repeat on the other side.
Any flat pry bar will do, but a long-handled one like this Open Angle Heavy Duty Pro Bar can be easier on your back:
Method 2: Lifting a hot tub with a hydraulic car jack
Another method for lifting up your hot tub is by using one or more hydraulic jacks usually used for cars. The problem here is that you need something to position the jack under that is not just simple cladding on the side of your hot tub (lifting it this way could damage the siding).
Look for some kind of ledge or lip along one of the sides, like this:
If your spa does have a ledge like this, you may be able to use a hydraulic jack. A low profile one is ideal:
To lift the spa, position the jack under the ledge and pump the handle until the spa is lifted just enough to slide your cover lifter plates under.
You can always place a some pieces of 2x4 wood as shims between the jack and the ledge for extra height if you need to.
If you need to raise your spa for more than just a cover lifter, you will need multiple jack stands, to lift one corner at a time. Once one corner is lifted, move onto the next. Repeat until all desired sides of the spa are elevated.
Things to watch out for when using either method
- Be sure to drain the spa before attempting to lift it: spas are heavy enough empty so you don't want to add water weight on top of that.
- Be careful not to try lifting your spa from the cladding alone: this could cause damage to your spa as the wood cabinet is not designed to take the entire weight of the spa.