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Hot Tub Problems and Solutions
Hot tubs are supposed to be a sanctuary, so it can be incredibly frustrating when something goes wrong.
However, some issues only need the simplest of solutions. We've created a troubleshooting guide to help resolve those pesky problems, so you can jump back in and enjoy your hot tub again!
When owning a hot tub, the best possible way to avoid most issues is by using water treatment systems. Maintaining a clean hot tub is the easiest way to solve most hot tub problems as it will more often than not avoid the issue in the first place.
Here at 1st Direct Pools, we stock an array of hot tub and swimming pool maintenance chemicals and equipment. If you're ever unsure what you need for your spa or pool, contact a member of our team!
There are several common reasons your hot tub may not be working as it should. Some of the more common problems include:
Water chemistry maintenance issues are arguably one of the most common problems hot tub owners encounter. Luckily, there are a number of symptoms that can help the owner indicate what is going on in the water.
Hot tub water chemistry issues include:
Cloudy water will often appear dull, cloudy or murky. You will first need to ensure that the filter has been installed properly; once confirmed, you will need to either clean the filter or replace it if appropriate. You should also consider increasing the duration of the filtration cycles to ensure it's adequate for the number of bathers and the general use of the hot tub.
Cloudy water can be caused by:
If the hot tub has been used frequently over a short period of time, excess body oils, lotions, deodorants, soaps, and much more can build up within the water. If you're still a while off draining your hot tub, you should consider shocking the water.
Skin and eye irritations are usually caused by one of two things:
Too high or low pH can cause eye and skin irritation; to avoid this, it's best to regularly test the water and adjust accordingly.
After sanitising your spa with chlorine or bromine, bromamines or chloramines can build up in the water; over time, this can lead to eye and skin irritation. To resolve this, you can either shock the water or drain, clean and refill.
One of the pleasures of a hot tub is its endless bubbles. Foaming water, however, is most definitely not.
Foaming water can be caused by:
If your hot tub hasn't been drained in over three months and a large group of bathers have been enjoying the hot tub, then the issue may stem from excess in phosphates. To resolve this, you will need to drain, clean and refill the hot tub. However, as a short-term solution, you can shock the water, but this should be shortly followed by the hot tub being drained.
If your local water is hard and your spa water is above 250 ppm, the foaming could be because of too much-dissolved mineral content within the water, such as calcium, magnesium, and iron.
To remedy water hardness and calcium overdose, you can start by partially draining the hot tub and adding in freshwater; this will help dilute the remaining minerals. Once the hot tub has been refilled, test the water to check the hardness and balance the water according to the test strip.
Green water is usually caused by algae growth which can result from the sanitiser levels remaining too low for far too long. Add sanitiser according to the product's instructions and leave it to circulate the hot tubs system. Once the sanitiser level has been determined as normal according to a test strip, add in shock treatment to move the dead algae and leave to allow the solution to circulate the hot tub.
Excess calcium is usually the cause of the build-up of white scaling. The excess amount of calcium can cause internal damage to the hot tub and affect the water flow, so it's best to treat the spa as soon as the scaling is spotted.
Scaling is caused by either hard water or calcium overdose. To resolve these issues, you can read the necessary information above under 'Foam'.
If the water has a yellow tinge, it may be an indication that the total alkalinity is too low. Test the water and balance accordingly to resolve the matter.
If your water chemistry balance is causing a consistent issue with your hot tub, the problem may lie with the seals. Check over your o-rings, pump seals and ensure your filter is cleaned regularly to stay ahead and aware of leaky seals.
Cold spas or their inability to get warm are the first tell-tale sign of heater failure. In most cases, heater failure is due to corrosion, which low pH levels can cause. Extended periods of low pH levels can also cause damage to the heater and trip the GFCI breaker. When checking the heating element, you should also check the filter and thermostat for damage.
It’s worth noting that these issues can be avoided with proper water chemistry maintenance.
Poor water flow can be an indication of a clogged filter. Once the filter is filled with dirt and residue, the water will struggle to flow, which can cause the spa to shut down. Preventative measures, such as maintaining a clean hot tub by balancing the water and regularly cleaning the filters, is the easiest way to avoid a clogged filter and other associated issues caused by stagnant water.
Airlocks occur while the hot tub is being drained, cleaned and refilled. Air can become trapped inside the spa once it has been emptied. You'll notice an airlock once the jets have been turned on and no water flows through them.
To remove an airlock, open all the jets completely and let them run for 10-15 seconds; repeat this until little air bubbles are released from the jets and leave them on until all of the air has been released.
If you are still unsure about what is causing a particular problem with your hot tub, contact a member of our team today. If you are attempting to solve an issue with your hot tub, it's highly recommended to contact a professional first, as they can always advise you and ensure that you remain safe.
