How to Fix 6 Common Hot Tub Problems

Experiencing some issues with your hot tub? Look no further! Here are the top 6 most common hot tub working problems users ask about.

Many times, the root of the problem comes from neglecting hot tub maintenance. Be sure to read our article to learn more about how to properly take care of your hot tub. Adjusting to a regular maintenance routine can prevent future issues.

The first step to fixing your hot tub is better understanding the overall picture of your hot tub's structure. Here are the main components of your hot tub:

• Cabinet
• Shell
• Cover
• Water (water chemistry, heating system)
• Filtration system
• Pumps
• Jets

If you have problems with your hot tub, most likely it has to do with one of these components. All of these parts work together to make an operating hot tub. Therefore, often times one problem with one of these parts can lead to a problem in another part. They all interconnect.

Cloudy/Foamy Water

Is your water looking cloudy, foamy, green, or has an odor? This is due to a lack of chemical imbalances in your water. Here are the solutions:

1. test your PH and total alkalinity levels
2. shock your water
3. sanitize your water
4. clean your filter
5. drain, refill, then rebalance your water (find under Seasonal Maintenance Routine)

By increasing or decreasing your PH and/or total alkalinity levels, your water problems will most likely be solved. Other strategies are shock therapy, sanitizing your water, cleaning your filter, or draining, refilling, then chemically rebalancing your hot tub water. Click the links above to learn more about how to perform these tasks.

You can also bring in a sample of your water to your nearest location for our professionals to test.

Weak or Low Water Flow

The source of this problem could involve one or more of the following parts:

A clogged filter is a dirty filter. If you are experiencing a weak or low water flow out of your jets, this could mean your filter needs either cleaning or a replacement of a new filter.

Check your water level. If your water level falls below the skimmer level, (where the micro filter is placed) then you could have issues with the strength of your water flow.

There is an air lock. This means that air could have gotten into the plumbing line and is blocking water from flowing properly. This can happen when you drain, refill, and clean your hot tub water. If your jets do not work after you do this, there may be an air lock. One way to fix this is opening your valves and turning your jets on low for 10-20 seconds then on high for 10-20 seconds and repeat until the flow returns to normal. If this nor any other methods above do not work, you can call a professional to come help.

Another possibility is that your jets are broken. Check all nozzles to see if any debris is blocking water flow. If jets appear to be worn out, this could also mean you need to replace your jets.

Noisy Pump

If your pump is making squealing or growing sounds, you can first try opening the valves near your pump or clean or replace your filter to remove any clogs. You may also want to check the water level.

It is also likely your pump needs a replacement.

Heating Failure

This could be caused by low levels of PH over time (which may have totally damaged your heater and it could need a replacement), a dirty or damaged filter, or a damaged thermostat.

You can also try turning your heater breaker off then on again to reset it or hit the heater reset button.

Check your control panel for any errors or the heating mode your hot tub is set to.

If you find you have a weak or low water flow, this can also be a reason for your water not heating up.

Other causes are low water levels, an air lock, a broken pump, or a broken heater.

You may need to contact a professional for help if none of these solutions help.

Breaker is Tripping

Tripping of the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) breaker is either caused by an improperly working part of your spa or is an electrical issue, which you should then contact an expert. It can be dangerous to figure out electrical issues without a professional.

There could be three culprits to why your breaker is tripping.

1. the heating element
2. the ozonator (if you have one)
3. the blower or air pump

First, try unplugging each of the above elements individually to find which may be the culprit. First, disconnect all your hot tub components from the GFCI breaker. Reconnect each element to the GFCI breaker and check to see if it trips. If any of them cause your GFCI breaker to trip, it may need replacement.

If you suspect that one of the hot tub elements needs a replacement, you want to first check with a professional to see if something is broken and needs replacement.

Have any other questions about hot tubs or Spa Logic? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions page to help find answers fast.

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