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Common Hot Tub Problems and their Solutions

Updated: August 14, 2018     Eric Clark

Intex Blow Up Hot Tub
Intex Blow Up Hot Tub

A hot tub at home can be a great way to sit and relax with a drink after a hard day’s work. They’re also a great way to spend time with chilling with friends and family. And while most decent hot tubs will provide you with hours of bubbling fun, they do inevitably go wrong once in a while too! Diagnosing the problem, and finding the remedy, can be a bit of a headache, especially if you just want to go in for a soak. The following article will take you through some of the most common hot tub problems that people experience.

It will help you learn to spot the signs and know how to deal with these things should they occur. As always, be sure to keep your spa clean with a hot tub vac, and hopefully, you can keep problems at bay.

Hot Tub Problems

We list below several of the most common issues users run into with hot tubs.

Blocked Filter

Lay Z Spa Type VI Filter
Type VI Filter for Lay Z Spas

Over time, body oils and other residue may cause blockages to occur in the filter. Usually, when a blockage occurs you’ll see an error code on the display that may read something like FLO.

This indicates that water is unable to get through the dirty filter and more often than not, your hot tub will stop working. The other issue you will have is that when a filter becomes blocked it’s no longer removing dirty contaminants.

Solution

To avoid your hot tub filter becoming blocked, be sure to clean it on a regular basis and replace when necessary. Not only will this help to maintain the health of your hot tub, but it will also help reduce your exposure to dirty contaminants.

If cleaning it doesn’t work and you’re still experiencing problems then it may be time to replace the filter. Most hot tub filters are pretty easy to change, but before you go diving in, it’s always best to check the instruction manual before you do to avoid any further costs.

There are a variety of different filter sizes and for different brands. If you have an Intex inflatable tub, check out our information on Intex filters here.

As a general rule of thumb, most hot tub filters should be changed approximately every two years.

Water Chemistry Imbalance

Water Test Kit Fix Your Hot Tub Problems
4-in-1 Test Kit

This is the number one issue that most hot tub owners experience at some point in their lives. But thankfully, it’s also one of the easiest issues to fix. By ensuring you have a healthy supply of water in your hot tub, you are helping to prevent future damage to your hot tub cover and filter. It’s a good idea to test the water in your hot tub regularly using 4 in 1 test strips like the Smart Test shown here. And physically check for any signs of mold, algae, or bacteria too.

If your water has a green tinge to it, this will most likely be caused by one of three things: low pH levels, algae, or low sanitizer levels. If you do find that your pH levels are too low, it means the water is very acidic.

Over time, if left untreated, this can cause the hot tub components to corrode. Algae is often quite easy to detect as usually presents itself as a slimy, green coating on the inside of the hot tub.

However, please note that algae can also come in other colors such as black or mustard, so don’t be alarmed if you see this growing too! Low sanitizer levels can also cause water to turn green and cloudy.

Solution

Spa Up
Spa Up

If the problem is low pH levels then this simply needs adjusting. To do this, first test the water for its pH and Total Alkalinity (TA) levels. You should always start by adjusting the TA level first as this helps to regulate the pH.

If the TA level is normal but the pH level is low then use a pH increaser like Leisure Time’s Spa Up to rise to the appropriate level; if it’s too high, you’ll need something like Leisure Time’s Spa Down.

When algae are the issue, they simply needs to be removed. Removing minor algae can be done using a treatment such as Leisure Time’s Spa Algaecide to wipe it any visible algae growth. If the algae growth is quite heavy you’ll need to carry out a more extensive treatment.

To do this, you should first use a system flush product to eliminate any algae that may be hiding in the plumbing. After the flush, you’ll need to drain the hot tub and wipe the inside clean with a non-foaming cleanser such as CleanAll. You should also take this opportunity to perform a deep clean on your filter or replace it if necessary.

Finally, refill the hot tub, then test and adjust the water’s pH and TA levels needed.

If the green water’s not being caused by low pH levels and it’s not being caused by algae, then it’s most likely that the sanitizer levels are low. To fix this simply test the levels first, use a sanitizer like Leisure Time’s Spa Shock and then adjust as necessary. You should always leave it around 24 hours first before retesting to allow the water time to adjust.

Heater failure

This is one of the most annoying problems you can encounter when all you want to do is sit and relax in a nice, warm hot tub. More often than not, heater failures are caused by corrosion of the heating element. A low ph (under 7.0) of water can cause this. If the heating element is exposed to low ph water for an extended period of time it will eventually damage the heating element and trip the GFCI breaker in the process.

Another issue it could be is a problem with the flow where not enough water is able to pass through the heater.

If however, your hot tub is full, it could be an airlock in the system that’s causing the heater to stop working.

Solution

If it is the actual heating element that’s failed you will need a hot tub specialist to replace this hot tub problem. If you find that it’s a problem with the water flow or circulation you may be able to fix this yourself.

First, check the water level and top up if needed. When this is too low, it can cause the heater to cut out, as not enough water will be moving through it.

If the water level is fine, and the problem appears to be an airlock, this is an easy fix. Simply open up the jets by turning them clockwise. Then disconnect the heater.

Next, you need to switch on the jets and let them run for 10-15 seconds to release any water inside.

Repeat this process until you get air bubbles emerging from the jets.

Burnt-out circuit board

Circuit board malfunction can be very costly to repair. The best way to prevent this from happening is through routine maintenance. Little things like heater terminal connection screws coming loose over time are enough to weaken the connection with the heater, causing damage to the circuit board as a result.

Physical signs of component damage include cracks, burn marks, or melting, though most systems these days will display some kind of error code if there are any issues with the circuit board.

Solution

Unfortunately, when it comes to burnt-out circuit boards, there’s not much you can do other than replace them. While this is a job you can do yourself it’s very important that you don’t get the wrong replacement.

Always refer to the installation guide before attempting to replace the circuit board. And most likely you’ll need to seek professional help.

Tripped GFCI/RCD breakers

To protect your hot tub from dangerous electrical faults which could lead to electrocution, a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) or a residual current device (RCD) is fitted. These are designed to shut off whenever they detect an electrical current flowing somewhere unsafe.

The only problem with these devices is that they’re incredibly sensitive and even the lowest of electrical currents can result in the breaker tripping if any minor issue is detected.

Solution

Try and reset the GFCI first to see if that solves the issue. To do this simply press the reset button, and wait for the click. This should restore electricity to your hot tub. It should turn on and stay on.

If it does not, it’s time to call in an electrician.

Poor Circulation

The better the water circulation is in your hot tub, the cleaner it will be. If you don’t run the pumps long enough, you may get poor water circulation.

To ensure you get the best water flow, you should always run the pumps for around one hour for every 10 degrees of temperature.

Poor water chemistry can also cause issues. A ph imbalance can cause the pump seals to corrode and as a result, adversely affect circulation. To avoid a poorly circulating hot tub, make sure you check and clean the filters on a regular basis.

You should also make a habit of wiping away any dirt or grime around the walls of the hot tub to prevent the formation of biofilms.

Solution

In cases of poor circulation to solve the issue you need to first determine what’s causing it. If you’ve run the pumps for the recommended time above and you’re still having problems, here are a couple of quick fixes to try.

First, test the water chemistry of the hot tub. If this needs adjusting, do so and see if the problem subsides.

If it’s not the water chemistry causing poor circulation it could be that the water levels are too low, in which case top up the hot tub to see if that solves the issue.

It could be that your pump may have become clogged with debris, in which case simply clean the area and restart. Failing that, you should check the flow sensors or pressure switch are working correctly, which may involve the help of a specialist.

Leaky Seals

Whenever you experience water chemistry issues, as well as checking the water composition, it’s always worth checking the condition of the seals too. Rubber pump seals and o-rings wear over time. By replacing these on a regular basis you will help to preserve the life of your hot tub and avoid further, more costly, repairs later on.

If seals are defective, water leakage and buildup around the hot tub’s electrical equipment can cause it to short out.

Solution

If you do find your hot tub to have a leaky pump seal, you can attempt to repair it, but because they wear out so often and are relatively inexpensive, you may as well replace it for the best result.

To do this first you must loosen the bolts and remove the wet end. Once the wet end has been removed you can then replace the seal.

Always make sure you clean the inside of the seal plate before replacing the seal as this will help preserve its life.

Touching the seal with your hands can cause them to get scratched or damaged. So instead use the blunt end of a screwdriver or similar tool to replace it.

Water Pump Malfunction

Coleman LayZSpa Control Panel
Coleman LayZSpa Pump Control Panel

The first signs you’re most likely to encounter when there’s a water pump malfunction is a humming or hammering noise coming from the hot tub.

Broken seals, worn out bearings, and leaky water are also signs that there could be an issue with the pump. Again, with regular maintenance of your hot tub, this is an issue that can be avoided.

If not, it may be a case of replacing the pump, which is not particularly difficult to do but is still an unnecessary expense nonetheless.

Solution

If the pump is making a noise but not pumping any water it may be a case that there’s air trapped in the system somewhere, in which case you’ll need to bleed the air out.

To do this, first locate the drain plug on the pump and filter then open it up until the water starts to flow out. In the event there are no drain plugs, simply loosen the union of the pump. As soon as the water begins to drip, tighten it back up again.

If it’s not an airlock, it could be something blocking the hot tub’s drain. Always make sure drains are kept clear of debris and cleaned regularly.

If the pump is not making any sound or movement, it could be that the GFCI has tripped (in which case see the above section on tripped GFCI/RCD breakers). However, if that’s not the issue then be sure to check your clock to make sure it’s not stuck on a setting that’s overriding the switch you’re using. If it is, you’ll need to refer to the owners manual to see how to change this.

Conclusion

We hope you found the above article helpful. Even if you’ve not yet got a hot tub, but it is something you’re considering this article will prepare you in advance for some of the problems you may experience when you do get one. By knowing what possible problems you may encounter, you’ll be much better equipped to deal with the situation should anything happen.

Just remember that as with most problems in life prevention is the key. And, with regular maintenance of your hot tub, most of these issues can be avoided.

If things have just gone too far, and it’s time for a new spa, be sure to check out our information on cheap hot tubs and inflatable spas!


 

Filed Under: Guides, Hot Tubs and Accessories

About Eric Clark

I am a modern patio design and outdoor living enthusiast. Professionally and personally, I love working with patio and garden design and decor, as well as gardening.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Chris says

    May 25, 2019 at 1:06 pm

    Why us my new hot tub walls soft every morning and needs to be filled with air. Its nit holding air.

    Reply
    • OutsideModern says

      November 15, 2019 at 4:58 pm

      Yes you are exactly right it is probably not holding air and you should look for a hole to patch.

      Reply
    • Chris says

      November 8, 2020 at 2:36 am

      Hi did you find the a hole as I have the same problem and can’t find a hole

      Reply
  2. thomas jakubowski says

    February 27, 2020 at 3:52 pm

    tube going into hot tube wont lock out so iy wont inflate

    Reply
  3. thomas jakubowski says

    February 27, 2020 at 3:53 pm

    tube wont lock in so the spa wont inflate

    Reply
  4. Phyllis Everett says

    April 22, 2020 at 6:52 pm

    I have a Sal u Spa Miami inflatable hot tub. My problem is air in the line from the hot tub to the pump. How do i get rid of this problem?

    Reply
  5. Rob i says

    May 10, 2020 at 9:29 pm

    Our saluspa has water trapped in the bottom even when emptied. We emptied it because when it was full, we were float because of the after moving. How do I get that water out?

    Reply
  6. dave says

    May 15, 2020 at 8:08 am

    hi can you help just topped our hot tub up and it has started to leak around the water jets only when jet are not turned on hope you can give me some advise

    Reply
  7. Lance York says

    May 18, 2020 at 1:05 pm

    When I get into the tub, it’s 104°. But after about 15 minutes to half an hour, it drops to 97 and eventually to 95. It seems like when the cover is on the temperature stays at 104 but once the cover comes off the temperature drops fairly quickly. Do you know what the problem could be?

    Reply
    • ROBERT says

      January 6, 2021 at 8:49 pm

      It’s natural for the temp to drop because of body temperature and outside air temps

      Reply
  8. Andrea says

    July 18, 2020 at 9:24 am

    The wind the air temperature all have a lot to do with it if it’s cold at or even chili at it brings it down quickly I have the same problem it’s like if you don’t cover your spa it won’t ever reach 104 you have to cover it and then uncover it and get in and enjoy it while it’s a hundred for it should drop slowly though but if your wind is high or you’re still at it’s going to drop really quick

    Reply
  9. Andrea says

    July 18, 2020 at 9:27 am

    I have a question is anybody know how to find a pinhole easy the rim of my spa seems to every 24 hours need to get air in it I’ve used that Flex Seal which seems to have gotten a couple bubbles I view soap and water and found a couple little bubbles I can’t find anything else short of emptying the pool and spraying the whole inside with that rubber Flex Seal can which I don’t want to do cuz I just refilled it anybody have any suggestions

    Reply
    • ROBERT says

      January 6, 2021 at 8:51 pm

      Same here…run water over area and look at eye level and watch for spray or area drying faster than rest of surface

      Reply
    • Roy Varilek says

      October 27, 2021 at 11:43 pm

      Try a piece of Saran wrap. Get it wet and hold it down tight, it will show air bubbles even for the smallest holes.

      Reply
  10. Michael Archambeau says

    October 10, 2020 at 7:22 pm

    Evertime turn heater on I shuts of

    Reply
  11. Dori says

    October 13, 2020 at 8:43 am

    Our hot tub has two filters but only one works. Anybody have any thoughts on this?

    Reply
    • Wanda Gray says

      May 18, 2021 at 4:53 pm

      Company told me the 2nd filter is for anything the 1st filter misses. If clean the 1st filter is working great.

      Reply
  12. Alison says

    December 5, 2020 at 2:54 pm

    Our spa is leaking air around the inflation valve. After filling with air the fitting spins. Anyone have a solution to this?

    Reply
  13. Stacy says

    December 24, 2020 at 8:04 am

    We have an Intex. How do we clean the “jets” or is that necessary? When we turn the blower on, there is a funny smell.

    Reply
  14. Cari Carter says

    March 25, 2021 at 3:01 pm

    We have the Coleman Saluspa. We recently cleaned out the hot tub and now the air jet ring on the bottom isn’t working. We only get the air out of half of it. Any advice on what we can do to clean it to get it working again?

    Reply
  15. Brian scala says

    April 24, 2021 at 10:33 am

    Intex sb-hw 10, leaking water under motor unit and it isn’t running on full power?

    Reply
  16. Michele says

    May 4, 2021 at 8:50 pm

    Control panel on Coleman saluspa lit up and temp is showing but otherwise it will not unlock. I’ve unplugged and teated and rest! Anyone have any ideas? Is there a reset button lol?

    Reply
  17. Vicki says

    June 11, 2021 at 10:17 am

    How iv intex hot tub I trun on stays in come back hour later n it has stop working lites still on just tells me what temperature is

    Reply
    • Karen Schiltz says

      September 20, 2021 at 10:08 am

      I have this same problem, no error code but everything is shut off but panel still shows temp. Did you find a fix if so can you please share?

      Reply
  18. Beth Hall says

    July 23, 2021 at 10:25 pm

    The one side wall inflates a lot when the pump is running almost like it will explode? Any thoughts?

    Reply
  19. Andy Layton James says

    July 28, 2021 at 1:08 pm

    My problem is everything on my inflatable works jets heater etc you can inflate it etc
    It just isnt circulating even tho filters are clean water height is correct press circulating button it clicks light comes on but no circulation??

    Reply
  20. Rex Sanderson says

    October 2, 2021 at 9:17 pm

    THE BOTTOM OF MY SPA IS FILLED WITH WATER. hOW DID THAR HAPPEN AND WHAT MUST I DO?

    Reply
  21. Diana L Kemp says

    November 15, 2021 at 11:34 pm

    I have a coleman spa….love love it, however I’ve noticed that the bubble ring on the bottom now puts out cold water through the jets. Never noticed that before.. hot tub is set up in addition to garage. Temp is set to 102..after 15 min temp is down to 97.. no error codes. Filter changed daily. Is something going bad or not working correctly?

    Reply
  22. Greg Leach says

    January 4, 2022 at 2:34 pm

    The display panel shows E03. We cannot get the hot tub to unlock to turn on the pump or anything. We unplugged and re-plugged the electric to it but it has not done anything.

    Reply
  23. Crystal says

    March 5, 2022 at 1:07 pm

    Why is there water on the inside of the walls on my inflatable hot tub? What do I do?

    Reply

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