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Hot Tub Troubleshooting Guide
May 25, 2024
-
By
John Harrington
Error codes may seem confusing, but they’re the hot tub’s method of communicating what’s wrong. Think of these codes as a conversation between you and your tub.
Some common ones include:
- OH: Hot tub overheats
- FL/FLO: flow problems
- SN: sensor malfunctions
- PNL: issues with electronic components
- SNA: issues with electronic components
- SNB: issues with electronic components
These codes indicate specific issues that you can troubleshoot or seek professional help for.
So, how can you decode these ‘hot tub’ messages? The key lies in your hot tub manual.
The manual contains a comprehensive list of error codes, offering a crucial reference for proper diagnosis and resolution of issues.
For certain specific issues or unfamiliar error codes, don’t hesitate to consult the manual or contact the manufacturer. And remember, when things get too complicated, professionals are always there to help.
Maintaining Optimal Water Chemistry
You might be wondering, what’s chemistry got to do with my hot tub?
Well, maintaining balanced pH and alkalinity levels in your hot tub water is essential for preventing issues like corrosion, skin irritation, and ineffective sanitation. Keeping the pH level between 7.2 and 7.8, and total alkalinity between 80-120 ppm, is key to ensuring a healthy water chemistry in your hot tub.
However, there’s more. Maintaining appropriate sanitizer levels is also key to a clean and safe hot tub experience.
Chlorine levels between 3-5 ppm, bromine levels between 4-6 ppm for granules or 1-2 ppm for dual-cartridge systems, and SmartChlor® levels between 0.5 to 1 ppm are the recommended ranges.
If your sanitizer levels are off the charts, don’t worry — excessive levels can be lowered by removing the spa cover and running the jets or diluting with fresh water.
In case of under-sanitization, you can fix the issue by occasionally adding non-chlorine shock oxidizers, which won’t affect the overall sanitizer levels.
Dealing with Clogged Filters
Clogged filters are another common issue.
Ever noticed your jets pulsating or pausing? Or perhaps you’ve come across flow error codes such as FLO, FL1, or LF?
These could be signs that there is a lack of water flow through the heater element, often due to a clogged filter.
If you find that your filter clogs up again shortly after cleaning, it could be a sign of a coating issue, often caused by mineral scale or oily films. If not addressed, it can eventually lead to overheating.
How to Clean Your Hot Tub Filter
Cleaning your hot tub filters isn’t as daunting as it may seem.
Here are the steps to follow for a hot tub clean:
Step 1: Rinse the Filter
Using a hose, rinse any loose dirt off the filter. Avoid using dishwashers or pressure washers, which can damage the filter’s pleats.
Step 2: Soak the Filter
In a large container, mix 16oz. of ACTIVE Hot Tub & Spa Filter Cleaner with 4 gallons of water. Place the filters in the solution and let them soak for 12 hours.
Step 3: Rinse the Filter Again
Remove the filter from the bucket and rinse again with clean water before re-inserting into the hot tub.
Supply:
- ACTIVE Hot Tub & Spa Filter Cleaner
- Hose
- Water
- Large container
Rinsing the filter weekly with cool water will keep your hot tub running smoothly by removing minor debris.
ACTIVE Hot Tub Filter Cleaner
The filter is the main defense against hot tub tub issues so make sure you clean it regularly.
Maintaining the Jets
Jet maintenance is another essential aspect that you don’t want to neglect.
Ideally, you want to clean the jets once a month – that will help prevent algae and other contaminants from building up, which can affect your hot tub’s performance. To do that, all you need is some white vinegar.
Supplies:
- White vinegar
- Small bristle brush
- Large bucket
Step 1:
Combine white vinegar and water in a large bucket and place the jets in overnight.
Step 2:
Using a small bristle brush, carefully clean the jet body, then rinse it with water before reinstalling.
If jets are weak or not functioning, check for dirty filters, low water levels, and blockages.
Dealing With a Hot Tub Airlock
Picture this: after a long day, you sink into your hot tub, but the jets are barely working. As it turns out, it may be an airlock issue.
An airlock, or air getting trapped in the plumbing lines, can impede water flow and cause the jets to malfunction. Fortunately, there’s an easy fix, here’s how:
Supplies:
- None
Step 1:
Fully open all the jets and run them on low for 20 seconds.
Step 2:
Switch the jets to high and let them run for another 20 minutes.
Continue until you hear a hissing sound – it means the trapped air is being released.
How to Identify a Leak
For hot tub owners, leaks and seal issues can be extremely troublesome.
Supplies:
- Dark food coloring (optional)
Step 1:
Power down the system and inspect for moisture in the equipment compartment.
Do the same for the pump, pipes, fittings, and pressure switches.
Step 2:
If necessary, you can add dark food coloring to help locate leaks near the jets by observing the path it takes.
Leaks can commonly originate from hot tub components such as the jets, heaters, pumps, PVC pipes, and valves.
Each component requires a specific approach for repair, such as removing and replacing o-rings or silicone seals at jets, updating union connection gaskets, and renewing pump seals as needed.
PVC pipe leaks, for instance, are remedied by cutting the defective section and replacing it with new flexible PVC tubing and connectors.
Troubleshooting Heater Issues
If your cold water is colder than the set temperature, codes such as COL, COOL, and LO could indicate a heater issue.
To verify heater function, check for voltage at the heater terminals, confirm water flow through the heater, and ensure sensors are not flagging over-temperature conditions.
Sometimes, the heating element itself could be the issue. Signs of damage or a lifespan of around 5 years could indicate that a replacement is in order. Other times, the issue could lie with the thermostat.
If your GFCI has tripped and stopped the heater, resetting it may restore the heater’s function. But remember, persistent tripping could indicate a heating element or electrical problem that needs further attention.
Tackling Pump Noises and Malfunctions
Pump noises can transform a tranquil hot tub session into a tense experience. Here are some common pump noises and what they may indicate:
- Growling or high-pitched squealing noises may indicate bad bearings or a struggle for water
- A grinding sound typically represents failing pump bearings
- A vibrating noise suggests a loose connection
- A buzzing sound can be a symptom of a seized pump or one receiving improper voltage
Electrical problems such as a faulty capacitor could be at the root of a pump that hums but doesn’t start or a pump that momentarily runs and then stops.
In cases like that, you may need to replace the bearings. Voltage checks may also be necessary. Persistent noise or malfunction issues may also require the rebuilding or replacement of the hot tub pump.
Resolving Circuit Board Problems
While circuit board problems might appear daunting, they can be managed with the right approach. Some common circuit board issues include: breaker trips, electrical shorts, burnt smells, and visible dark spots on circuit board wiring.
These issues can be caused by loose or damaged wiring, as well as fried components that may need replacing.
Misfired signals or unexpected activation of different hot tub functions suggest a broken circuit board. Loose connections, particularly around terminal blocks, may lead to burned or melted areas that require secure reconnections.
If your control panel is unresponsive, it may indicate a malfunctioning circuit board with no error messages or notifications displayed.
Preventing Line Leaks and Weak Jets
As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. This is especially true when it comes to preventing line leaks and weak jets in your hot tub.
Here are some tips to help you prevent these issues:
- Use stain and scale control products weekly, particularly in areas with hard water, to prevent scale buildup
- Monitor and adjust the pH levels of your hot tub water to prevent algae formation, which can lead to weak jets and other issues
- Ensure proper water sanitation to avoid blockages in the jets
By following these preventive measures, you can make hot tub care easy and keep your hot tubs in optimal condition, avoiding costly repairs and ensuring proper hot tub maintenance.
If algae persist despite proper pH levels, shocking the water with a sanitizer can effectively eliminate the issue.
Leak sealant products require several hours of continuous recirculation, typically between 4-6 hours per day, and may need to be stirred regularly to avoid settling.
After applying leak sealant, allow proper cure time, usually 24-48 hours, before resuming normal filtration to ensure optimal results.
Keeping Your Hot Tub Cool in Summer
Maintaining a proper hot tub temperature is just as important as regular maintenance. This is especially true during the summer months.
To keep your hot tub cool, we recommend setting your hot tub’s thermostat consistently to maintain a cooler water temperature. Adjusting the filter cycle duration to fewer hours is also a good idea.
We also recommend using the ‘economy’ setting on spa pumps when they are not in use. Opening air controls can also introduce cooler air inside the cabinet, which will help lower the water temperature in your hot tub.
To prevent your spa from overheating on a hot summer day, you can also use a well-insulated and tight-fitting hot tub cover. Using structures like umbrellas will also protect the spa from direct sunlight and keep the water cool.
Effortless Hot Tub Troubleshooting: Quick Fixes for Common Problems
There are several things to keep in mind when it comes to troubleshooting hot tubs – from understanding error messages to preventing line leaks, and even keeping your hot tub cool in summer.
Remember, troubleshooting your hot tub doesn’t need to be a daunting task. With the right knowledge and approach, you can ensure your hot tub is always ready for a relaxing soak.
Key Takeaways
- Hot tub error codes like ‘OH’ for overheating, ‘FL/FLO’ for flow problems, and ‘SN/SNA/SNB/PNL’ for sensor or electronic issues can be diagnosed with the manual or professional help for troubleshooting.
- Maintaining balanced water chemistry is crucial, with recommended levels for pH (7.2-7.8), alkalinity (80-120 ppm), and sanitizers (chlorine 3-5 ppm, bromine 4-6 ppm or 1-2 ppm, SmartChlor® 0.5-1 ppm) to prevent damage and ensure sanitation.
- Clogged filters can be resolved by regular hosing, soaking in cleaner, and deep cleaning, while persistent pump noises or leaks may need professional repairs or part replacements.
Common Hot Tub Problems – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common problem with hot tubs?
The most common problem with hot tubs is heater failure, which is often caused by low pH leading to corrosion.
Once the heater is corroded, it needs to be replaced. If you’re experiencing an FLO error or circulation fault, you can check out our guide for assistance.
How do you diagnose a hot tub problem?
To diagnose a hot tub problem, start by testing the water quality and then check the filters, control panel, and overall system for any issues. Checking these aspects will help you narrow down the cause of the problem.
How do I troubleshoot my hot tub control panel?
To troubleshoot your hot tub control panel, check for moisture or damage in the connections, clean the plug-in cable connections, and inspect the circuit board for any damage or power output issues. This can help identify and fix any issues with your control panel.
What should I do if I see an error code on my hot tub?
If you see an error code on your hot tub, refer to the manual for a list of error codes and their meanings, and contact the manufacturer for unfamiliar codes or specific issues.
How do I maintain optimal water chemistry in my hot tub?
To maintain optimal water chemistry in your hot tub, keep the pH level between 7.2 and 7.8, and total alkalinity between 80-120 ppm, while also ensuring proper sanitizer levels. This will provide a clear and safe hot tub experience.
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John Harrington
John Harrington, with over 20 years of experience in pool and spa maintenance, generously shares his expertise on the ACTIVE blog. His in-depth knowledge and practical advice provide invaluable guidance for maintaining pristine pools and hot tubs. John's insights help enthusiasts and homeowners ensure their aquatic havens are always in top condition.
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