Pool Tech Plus is happy to be your resource during those times when you have questions about your hot tub. We’ve compiled a list of the most common spa troubleshooting issues – and how to solve them. Bookmark this page or print it out and save it with your hot tub records so you can refer back to it.
No Heat
If your spa water is cool, the most common culprit is dirty filters. The heater shuts off if the filters are clogged or dirty because it needs water to flow constantly to properly operate. You can solve this problem by simply removing the filters and cleaning them thoroughly. Wash off the loose debris and use a specialized filter cleaner for the best results. If your filters are more than two years old, it’s time to replace them.
Still No Heat
If there’s still no hot water in your spa after you clean and replace the filters, turn the spa off. Leave it off for 10-15 minutes, then turn the hot tub on again to see if the heater comes on. If the heater still isn’t running, you need a service call.
Cloudy Water
Water that looks dull or cloudy is a sign that the chemicals in your spa are out of balance. Use a test strip to check the chemical levels in your water, and use the appropriate products to restore the water to its correct range. Once everything is balanced, your water should clear up on its own.
Cloudy Water & Musty Smell
If you notice a musty smell in your tub, the cloudy water could mean your chemical balance is off. Add sanitizer to your spa water, then run the jets for 45 minutes. Rotate the jet selector levers to make sure all of the jet lines are cleaned out during this process. Turn off the jets and allow the water to settle for about 10 minutes; you should notice the water is significantly more clear. If the water is better but still slightly hazy, repeat the process. Remember: thoroughly clean your filters once the water is clear so your filters will continue to function properly.
No Bubbles From the Ozonator
If there aren’t bubbles, it’s likely the airway is blocked somewhere along the line. It’s important to clean the tubing at least once a year to avoid these kinds of blockages. Contact Us to schedule a time for us to clean out these tubes for you.
Bubbles & Musty or Cloudy Water
If you see bubbles but you have musty or cloudy water, it’s possible you’re getting air without ozone. The ozonator is designed to last 2-3 years, and our team can perform a simple test to check to see if it’s working. Remember, an ozonator isn’t required for a hot tub to function, but you’ll have to add chemicals more often and work harder to maintain clear water without it.
Draining & Refilling the Spa Every Four Months
It’s important to get rid of old chemicals, called Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), that build up in your water over time. The only way to get rid of TDS is by draining your spa and refilling it. TDS stay in your water, they don’t work to keep your water clean, but they do make it harder to keep your water clean and clear. Our service team can drain and refill your spa for you if you don’t want to do it yourself.
Avoid Problems by Using Specialized Chemicals
Some spa owners try to use pool chemicals on their spa, but that’s a big mistake. Pool chemicals are much stronger and they can cause significant damage to your hot tub. Spa chemicals are like so many other products; you get what you pay for. Cut-rate products sold from big-box stores are more likely to include fillers and chemicals, making some of the above problems more likely. Using a high quality products will help ensure your tub continues to work great without issue for years to come.