HOW TO PREVENT THE MOST COMMON SPA PROBLEMS

Uh oh! Is your hot tub not heating? Welcome to WCI Pools & Spas, where our experts can assist you with your spa problems.

Perhaps the jets aren’t working or there’s a leak coming from the spa pump. Maybe you have no bubbles, or you’re confused by the hot tub error codes! Before you panic about having to replace your hot tub or a costly repair, why not try a little hot tub troubleshooting first? Here are the five most common hot tub repairs you may run into, and how to fix them.

TOP 5 COMMON SPA PROBLEMS

1. HOT TUB WON’T HEAT UP

The last thing anyone wants for their hot tub is ice cold water! If your hot tub is failing to heat up, it could be due to clogged or malfunctioning filters. A clogged or dirty filter can restrict the flow of water to your heater. When the heater does not have good water flow, there are safety protections in place that prevent the heater from starting up so that the heater is not damaged.

Check your filters routinely, and if they look dirty, give them a good rinsing and soak in a filter cleaner. It’s also a good idea to replace your filters every 12-18 months. For more information check out Everything You Need to Know About Hot Tub Filters. 

2. JETS AREN’T WORKING

One of the best parts of soaking in a hot tub is using the jets. But if they’re not working, then what you have is a bathtub. Not to worry! It’s possible that air is locked into the system. Or there could be a buildup of calcium.

If you suspect the latter, check your jets for debris, and clear them if necessary. Otherwise, turn your jet pump on and off a few times to force the trapped air out. No improvement? Try loosening the top fitting on your pump just until you hear air escape and see a bit of water, then tighten it back up.

3. HOT TUB PUMP IS NOISY

Wondering where that sound is coming from? If you can hear a low grumbling bellow coming from your hot tub cabinet, it could be a sign your pump is struggling for water. If that’s the case, remove any clogs from your circulation system, top off your water and make sure any valves near your pump are open. A loud grinding or screeching sound can indicate bad bearings in your hot tub motor. In some cases, the bearings can simply be replaced. In more extreme cases, the motor may need to be replaced.

4. WHERE ARE MY BUBBLES?

Not seeing any ozone bubbles rising up from the drain of your tub? It might be an indication that you’ve got a blockage in the air line, or possibly a bad valve. It’s important to have these lines cleared once a year to keep them in good condition.

5. HOT TUB ERROR CODE ISSUES

If your hot tub is speaking in another language, and you’re confused by the codes, don’t be! Check your hot tub manual or guide for a comprehensive list of all the error codes, and what each one means.

DRAINING AND REFILLING YOUR HOT TUB

Sometimes all your hot tub needs is a simple water change. We recommend draining, cleaning and refilling your hot tub once every three to four months as a general rule of thumb. This process can provide your spa with a fresh start, helping to reduce the risk of a variety of common problems. In fact, if you start to experience an issue with your hot tub water and treating with chemicals just isn’t cutting it, changing the water might be exactly what is needed.

SOLVE YOUR SPA PROBLEMS WITH WCI POOLS AND SPA

Do you need help diagnosing a hot tub problem? If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting tips in this article, but you’re still at your wit’s end, don’t fret! Schedule an appointment with the service team at WCI Pools and Spas.  We offer an exceptional group of spa technicians to service your needs. 

For all other hot tub needs, from the sale of a brand-new hot tub, accessories to maximize your experience, or hot tub supplies to keep the water safe and enjoyable, contact your local WCI Pools & Spas showroom today. We have two convenient locations in Ames and Urbandale. For other questions and inquiries, feel free to browse the other articles in our blog or take a look at some of our most frequently asked questions.