How to Get Rid of an Old Hot Tub (2025 Guide)

Let’s be honest—an old hot tub can go from luxurious to liability real fast. Whether it's cracked, leaking, unused, or just outdated, that big bulky spa in your yard or basement is taking up valuable space. The question is: how do you get rid of a hot tub without draining your wallet or your sanity?

Hot tubs can weigh over 500 pounds, include complex electrical systems, and often require disassembly, hauling, and proper disposal. In this guide, we break down the smartest, safest, and most cost-effective ways to remove and dispose of an old hot tub in 2025.

An old, empty hot tub with a wooden exterior sits in a backyard, bordered by a wooden fence and patchy grass.

Why Proper Hot Tub Disposal Matters

Abandoning or improperly dismantling a hot tub isn’t just inconvenient—it can be dangerous and illegal. Improper disposal contributes to landfill overflow, contains electrical components, and may violate local bylaws.

According to the EPA, non-biodegradable household waste, including large fiberglass and vinyl items like hot tubs, accounts for millions of tons of landfill space annually.

1. Hire a Professional Hot Tub Removal Service

If you want zero stress and quick results, hiring a junk removal company that specializes in hot tub disposal is your best bet. These professionals handle the heavy lifting, dismantling, and proper disposal or recycling of your old spa.

What’s included?

• Disconnection of plumbing/electrical

• Cutting and dismantling (if needed)

• Safe removal

• Hauling and recycling/disposal

Average Cost in 2025:

• $300 to $700, depending on size, access, and labour

Pro Tip: Ask if the company is insured, offers eco-friendly disposal, and includes dumping fees in the quote.

Book a hot tub removal service with local experts for a free quote.

2. Sell or Give Away If It’s Still Working

If your hot tub is still functioning and in decent condition, someone may actually want it—especially DIYers looking for a deal. List it on:

• Facebook Marketplace

• Kijiji

• Craigslist

• Freecycle

Be honest about its condition, include dimensions, and require that the buyer handles the removal.

Hot tubs less than 8 years old often resell for $500–$1,200 depending on condition. If you're giving it away for free, it can be gone within a day.

3. Recycle the Materials

Hot tubs contain a mix of recyclable materials:

• Acrylic/fiberglass shell

• PVC piping

• Wooden or composite base

• Metal components (motors, wiring, fasteners)

Many recycling centers or scrap yards accept these parts, but they usually require that you dismantle the tub first.

Dismantling checklist:

• Disconnect power and drain water

• Remove side panels

• Unscrew frame supports

• Cut the shell into sections with a reciprocating saw

• Sort materials into recyclables and non-recyclables

Check local regulations at your municipal waste department, like Toronto’s Waste Wizard.

An unused hot tub stands neglected, its water turned murky and greenish, surrounded by overgrown vegetation and beside a brick wall.

4. Rent a Dumpster for DIY Disposal

If you’re tackling the project yourself, you’ll need a plan to dispose of the parts. Renting a dumpster is a good option if you’re already doing other yard or home cleanups.

Costs:

• $350–$600 for a medium-size dumpster

• Add $50–$100 for permit if placed on public property

• Disposal fee may vary based on weight

Be sure to check:

• What’s allowed in the bin

• Whether you’re charged extra for electronics or motors

• If you need to separate materials

This is a physically demanding option, best for experienced DIYers.

5. Donate to a Trade School or Nonprofit

Some schools or nonprofits accept non-working hot tubs for training or repurposing. Electricians, plumbers, or even artists may use the shell or mechanical systems for parts.

Possible donation outlets:

• Local vocational or trade schools

• Habitat for Humanity ReStores (case-by-case)

• Makerspaces or creative reuse centers

Make sure to confirm acceptance, and ask if pickup is available.

Frequently Asked Questions

💬 Can I throw a hot tub in a landfill?

No—at least not without proper preparation. Most landfills require disassembly and charge weight-based fees. Many reject large non-compactable items like full spa units.

💬 How long does hot tub removal take?

Professional removals typically take 1–3 hours depending on size, access, and condition.

💬 Do I need a permit to remove a hot tub?

Generally no. But if you’re placing a dumpster on the street or disconnecting electrical systems yourself, you may need a permit or licensed technician.

Conclusion

Getting rid of an old hot tub may seem like a giant hassle—but with the right plan, it can be done quickly, affordably, and responsibly. Whether you opt to sell, recycle, donate, or hire a pro, the key is acting intentionally and safely.

Ready to clear your space and start fresh? Contact Junk Twins for fast, full-service hot tub removal in the Toronto area. We handle everything—from dismantling to clean-up—so you can sit back and enjoy your backyard again.