Hot tubs are a great way to relax and unwind, but they are also complex pieces of equipment that require maintenance and care if they are to be enjoyed for years to come. Using our expertise as hot tub suppliers, Hydropool are taking a look at 10 of the most common hot tub problems and how to fix them. Whether you’re a new hot tub owner or have years of experience, these tips will help keep your spa in top condition.
Cloudy water is usually one of the top complaints among hot tub owners. There are a number of factors that can cause this, such as issues with water chemistry, insufficient filtration, or contaminants introduced from general use such as oils from the body or dirt.
The best way to clear up or avoid cloudy water is to have a regular drainage schedule, at least every 60 days, to ensure your water stays fresh and clear. This will generally clear out all contaminants in your water and is usually the easiest solution to prevent this issue, however, if your hot tub water gets cloudy more regularly then this may be indicative of other issues that require different solutions.
Always check that your water’s pH, alkaline, and sanitiser levels are within the recommended usage for your hot tub. You can either use a strip test or a digital tester for an accurate measurement. The usual recommended levels are:
A dirty or clogged filter can prevent proper water circulation. Remove the filter and rinse it thoroughly with a garden hose. For a deep clean, soak it in a filter cleaning solution overnight; If the water remains cloudy after trying the above steps it might be time to drain and refill your hot tub. Clean the tub thoroughly before refilling to remove any residual contaminants.
Get more info on how to drain, clean, and refill your hot tub in our comprehensive blog.
Use a non-chlorine shock or a chlorine shock treatment to oxidise contaminants. Follow the product instructions for the correct dosage based on your hot tub's volume.
Green water in your hot tub can also be a common problem when the above steps are not followed. Check our comprehensive guide on green hot tub water for more info.
Issues with heating can also be a common problem, and these are likely due to malfunctions in your heater, tripped fuses, thermostat issues, or even simply a clog in your hot tub’s filtration. There are a number of solutions for this, but you will need to test your hot tub to determine the cause. It is particularly important to make sure you understand the exact reason your hot tub’s heater is not working, as this could be down to electrical issues that should be resolved before you continue use of your spa.
How long does it take to heat up a hot tub? Find out more in our blog.
Your first check should be to turn on your hot tub and inspect your fuse box to make sure it hasn’t tripped. If the fuse box has tripped then flip it back on and see if this resolves the issue. If the fuse trips again then use an ohms (Ω) meter to measure the resistance of your heater element - this should usually be around 9-12 ohms to be safe. If your meter displays ‘infinity’ or continues to rise above 12 then your heating element has blown and you should arrange a replacement before continuing use.
To test your hot tub thermostat, first ensure safety by turning off the power at the fuse box and verifying no power flows to the hot tub with a non-contact voltage tester, and access the thermostat by removing the control or access panel near the pump and heater. Using a multimeter, check for continuity by placing the probes on the thermostat terminals: if it beeps (continuity) when the water is below the set point, the thermostat is working correctly. Next, set the multimeter to resistance (ohms) and observe if the resistance changes with temperature variations, comparing the readings to your owner's manual specifications. A lack of continuity or no change in resistance suggests a faulty thermostat.
After testing, reconnect any wires, secure the panel, and restore power to the hot tub. Cross-check the thermostat setting by heating the hot tub and measuring the water temperature with a digital thermometer, ensuring it matches the set temperature. Significant changes indicate the need for recalibration or replacement of the thermostat. If you're unsure about any steps or find the thermostat faulty, you should always consult a professional technician for accurate diagnosis and repair.
Low water flow is another issue commonly caused by your hot tub’s filtration system, and can generally be fixed by maintaining a regular filter cleaning schedule. You may also need to replace your filter from time to time, particularly if it hasn’t been cleaned in a while.
Check for blockages in the skimmer basket and pump the strainer for debris, removing any obstructions you may find. Ensure that the pump is working correctly. Listen for unusual noises that might indicate a problem with the pump motor or impeller. If necessary, call a professional to inspect and repair the pump.
Low water flow can also be caused by issues in the hot tub’s airlock. Sometimes air can get trapped in the plumbing, causing low water flow. To remove an air lock turn off the pump, loosen the union on the pump to release the air, and then retighten it before turning the pump back on.
Hot tub jets that aren’t working properly can be due to air locks, blockages, or issues with the pump. There are a number of checks to make to understand what may be causing issues with your jets.
As mentioned above, air locks can obstruct water flow to the jets. Bleed the air from the system by loosening the union on the pump or opening the air relief valve.
Remove and clean the jets to ensure they aren't clogged with debris or calcium buildup. Soak them in a vinegar solution to dissolve any deposits.
Verify that the pump is operating correctly. If the pump isn't providing adequate water pressure, it may need to be repaired or replaced.
Some hot tubs have a diverter valve that controls the flow of water to different jets. Ensure the valve is in the correct position for the desired jet output.
Error codes on a control panel will usually give you a direct indication of which issue you need to fix, and error codes will generally differ between hot tub suppliers. You should always check your hot tub owner’s manual for more information about each code. For the most part, your manual will give you exact instructions on how to clear your error code, but they may also advise you to contact an engineer in the case of certain problems. You can also reset the system, which in some cases will clear your error codes.
Damaged hot tub covers can cause a number of issues such as waterlogging, loss of temperature if you leave your hot tub on at all times, and general cleanliness and clogging when a damaged cover allows debris to enter the hot tub.
Small tears in a hot tub cover can easily be repaired with a vinyl repair kit, and cleaning your hot tub cover regularly will stop the accumulation of dirt, bacteria, or even moss if you have not used your hot tub in a while. It is important to stop your hot tub cover from becoming waterlogged over time by simply lifting the cover to remove excess water when present.
Hot tub odours can be caused by several factors, including bacteria, chemical imbalances, or even the presence of contaminants such as sweat and body oils. To diagnose the source of the smell:
Check Water Chemistry: Imbalanced pH and sanitizer levels can lead to unpleasant smells. Use test strips or a digital tester to ensure your water chemistry is within the recommended ranges. Adjust the levels as needed and consider shocking the water if an imbalance is detected.
If your hot tub pump isn't operating, it can cause issues with water circulation and heating. Here’s how to troubleshoot this problem:
Ensure that the pump is receiving power. Inspect the power cable and connections for any visible damage. Check your circuit breaker or fuse box to make sure the fuse hasn’t tripped.
Listen for any unusual noises coming from the pump motor, such as humming or grinding sounds, which could indicate internal damage. If the pump motor is silent, it might be a sign of an electrical issue or a faulty motor.
Check for any obstructions in the pump or its intake. Debris such as leaves or small objects can block the flow of water and prevent the pump from operating properly.
As with low water flow, air locks in the pump can impede its operation. Bleed the air from the system by loosening the pump union or opening the air relief valve, then tighten it again and restart the pump.
Water level fluctuations can be caused by leaks, evaporation, or overflows. Maintaining a stable water level is crucial for the proper operation of your hot tub.
Look for any signs of leakage around the hot tub, including wet spots on the ground or water pooling underneath the spa. Check the plumbing and connections for any visible signs of leakage.
Hot tubs are prone to water evaporation, especially in hot or windy conditions. Regularly check and top off the water level as needed.
If your hot tub is overfilled, excess water can lead to spills and fluctuations. Ensure the water level is at the recommended level, usually just above the skimmer intake.
Inconsistent water temperature can be frustrating and impact your hot tub experience. Address this issue by troubleshooting the following:
Ensure that the heater is functioning correctly and that there are no issues with the heating element or thermostat. Refer to the troubleshooting steps for heater issues if you suspect this might be the cause.
A faulty temperature sensor can cause inaccurate readings and temperature fluctuations. Test the sensor with a multimeter or consult a professional to determine if it needs replacement.
Poor insulation can lead to heat loss, causing temperature fluctuations. Inspect the hot tub's insulation and ensure it is in good condition. Consider adding additional insulation if necessary.
Check the settings on your hot tub's control panel to ensure that the temperature is set correctly and that no other settings are causing fluctuations.
By following these tips, you should be able to address and resolve common hot tub issues effectively. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to problems will help ensure that your hot tub remains a relaxing retreat for years to come.
Using a hot tub control panel typically involves the following steps:
Always refer to your hot tub’s specific user manual for detailed instructions tailored to your model.
Here’s a guide for using a hot tub for the first time:
Yes, it is generally advisable to leave a hot tub on all the time for several reasons:
However, if you plan to not use the hot tub for an extended period, you might choose to turn it off and drain the water.
You generally do not need to have the jets on while heating the hot tub, but it can be beneficial:
If your hot tub has specific recommendations regarding heating and jet usage, it’s best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for optimal performance.