The broken jet is against the wall side and the motor is accessible from under the vanity on the right in front of the tub.
Asked on May 27, 2018
Removing jetted tub and replacing with freestanding tub. Tips?
+4
Our condo has a typical builder grade jetted tub on the far wall with a separate walk-in shower to one side. The jetted tub has a jet that a prior owner cut (why?!) and the repair to get to the tube/pipe is difficult and expensive and would require removing the tile surrounding the built-in tub, estimates between $2,500-$4,500. I would prefer totally removing it and replacing with a modern freestanding tub. Would this be a less expensive option since we really just need the plumber to cut-up and disconnect the tub for removal. We would much prefer a non-jetted tub. Thank you for any advice! It’s the only tub, and cannot be filled with water because the water will leak through the broken jet and has already flooded our bath and new wood floor in the bedroom. We were not informed prior to purchase! Thank you!
You don't need a plumber to remove the tub. Any good contractor can demo the area. The install is the plumber's job. It will not be any less expensive to have a new tub added than fixing this one. It will, however, if done well increase the value of your condo. Good luck.
All you need is either disconnect the plumbing to the tub yourself or hire a plumber to do it. That tub is heavy to remove in one piece. It's just dropped into the opening of the based. Easiest would be to break it into pieces with a sledge hammer. You can try using a reciprocating saw (Sawzall) but you'd be going through a lot of blades.
I think that whoever invented these space hogging tubs likely never had to try to clean one without risking putting their backs out. Removing it completely and adding instead a walk-in shower with a built in seat will add so much more value to your unit then spending the money to try to 'fix' the jet tub. Most new build high end condos smaller on floor space now have no bathtubs at all. Walk-in showers take less water, save electricity, are easier to clean, use space efficiently, and can accommodate persons with less agility or mobility without needing any major modifications.
William is right that you can save money on the demo by having a go at it with a sledge hammer and a some muscle power.
Cheapest way is to plug where it leaks or is broken. Otherwise listen to William and Bijou. If you just remove the tub what are your plans for the tile the existing tub sits on. Maybe you could find a regular tub that is the exact same size? Anyway you go it is going to be costly.
removing that tile enclosure will also reveal any wood rot under the tub, repair necessary if you plan to put another tub on that subfloor. If condo purchase was recent, contact your realtor if you have a contract or warranty.
Hey i face my problem when i install freestanding tub. Then I follow this article: https://bathadvice.com/how-to-install-a-freestanding-tub-on-concrete-slab/
I recommend first read this article and then start your task.