They actually make tools specifically for this
1) a pair of hose pliers that work in reverse with forked ends to push the hose off
2) cheaper is a pry bar with a groove cut into it to force between the tank / hydro & the hose as you have probably been doing with a screwdriver already.
General tips
1) heat will soften the hose
2) a pair of heavy circlip expanding pliers can be forced between them then squeezed all the way round to break the semi-vulcanized bond .
3) the 1/2 hour it takes to remove the drive is a lot time than you will spend hanging off the ceiling trying to get hands & tools into inaccessible places .
4) As you are going to replace the hose it can be cut off