Hot Tub Troubleshooting
You likely look forward to a hot tub soak every day. So, when you see an error code on your spa’s control panel, you might worry that you’ve lost your chance. But don’t fret! Hot Spring® spa systems are reliable and will last a long time with regular maintenance, but issues do sometimes arise. To help set you on the right track toward fixing minor hot tub problems with jets, pumps, heaters, electrical systems, controls, and water quality, we’ve created an easy-to-follow chart below. Consider it a great starting point for ways to troubleshoot and fix your hot tub problems. As a reminder, always be sure to consult your owners manual.
If you have questions about the best practices for do-it-yourself routine maintenance and repairs, or the details of your warranty, your local Hot Spring dealer is the best resource for answers. Plus, turn to your dealer for repairs by a certified technician who knows Hot Spring models inside and out.
HOW TO FIX COMMON HOT TUB PROBLEMS
To troubleshoot an issue with your spa, locate your specific problem in the chart below to help determine a probable cause, and then apply the right solution.
FIX YOUR HOT TUB’S OPERATIONAL PROBLEMS
The Problem | The Likely Cause(s) | Troubleshooting Solutions | Do you need to call a professional technician? |
The spa is inoperative |
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Spa won’t heat, even while the jets and lights operate (green logo “Ready” and blue logo “Power” indicators are blinking) |
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Jet operation is weak or surging |
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Light is inoperative |
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Moto-Massage® DX jet is inoperative or erratic |
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Blue logo “Power” indicator is blinking |
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Green logo “Ready” indicator is blinking |
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Control touchscreen is on but inoperable |
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Control touchscreen is off and black |
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Remote responds intermittently within the 30-foot range |
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Touchscreen continues to read “Searching for spa” on a black screen |
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FIX YOUR HOT TUB’S WATER QUALITY PROBLEMS
The Problem You’re Noticing | The Likely Cause(s) | Troubleshooting Solutions | Do you need to call a professional technician? |
Cloudy water |
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Water odor |
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Chlorine odor |
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Musty odor |
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A ring of scum around the spa |
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Algae growth |
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Eye irritation |
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Skin irritation or rash |
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Stains |
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Scale |
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Remember to exercise caution when attending to your hot tub’s mechanical and electrical parts. We recommend contacting an expert technician when repairs require professional attention, especially during the warranty period—you don’t want to risk voiding your warranty.
PROACTIVE HOT TUB MAINTENANCE TIPS THAT CAN SAVE YOU FROM FUTURE HEADACHES
Your Hot Spring hot tub offers incredible benefits for stress and tension relief, hydrotherapy, and personal connections. When you regularly and proactively care for your spa, it will keep giving back in valuable, healthy ways. Hot Spring spas are designed to make it easy for you to monitor water quality, clean the filters, and protect your spa from the elements. Follow these tips to keep your home spa in tip-top shape and to minimize the time and cost of repairs.
- Rinse the underside of your hot tub cover frequently with a garden hose to keep algae, mold, and mildew at bay.
- Rinse your filters every month to keep clear water flowing. (TRI-X® filters are dishwasher-safe.)
- Use an instant filter cleaner spray each month to break up oil and other stubborn buildup.
- Always keep your hot tub covered when not in use to keep debris out and to more efficiently maintain water temperature.
- Keep detergents and soaps out of your spa by showering with water only before getting into the hot tub.
- Drain and refill the hot tub as recommended in your owner’s manual to keep your water fresh.
- Use only the chemicals and cleaners your dealer recommends for your hot tub model. Pool chemicals and other products can throw off your water balance and lead to damage down the road.
- Purchase authorized Hot Spring parts from your dealer to ensure that you’re outfitting your spa with quality, lasting components.
- Keep your spa’s serial number on hand in case you need to reference it for more troubleshooting advice or official parts and repairs.
You don’t have to be tech savvy to solve some of the common problems that arise with regular hot tub use; just learn to be more proactive. This guide can help you get started, so you and your family can enjoy relaxing, therapeutic soaks for decades to come. For issues that require expert troubleshooting, your Hot Spring dealer is always ready to step in.
The best time to start thinking about spa maintenance and repair options is before you even purchase your hot tub. When you buy a hot tub from a reputable Hot Spring dealer, your package includes access to a wealth of expert knowledge and certified technicians who can ensure the best possible outcome when your spa experiences problems. So, plan a visit to your showroom today. You can also refer to our frequently asked questions, request a personalized price quote, or download a brochurefor more details about Hot Spring spas.