Central Coast Pool and Spa answers, ‘What’s wrong with my hot tub?’
Hot tubs and spas, and the equipment that runs them, are designed to be trouble-free with proper maintenance. Well-maintained hot tubs and spas can keep bubbling along, soothing stiff joints and aching backs for years. This isn’t to say there won’t be problems, but things are a lot less worrisome when you understand the possible causes. Central Coast Pool and Spa, providing hot tub repair and service to Atascadero, Templeton, Paso Robles has identified the most common problems and the maintenance that helps prevent them.
Most common hot tub problems
What seems to be the obvious problem, such as cloudy water, is often evidence of problems elsewhere. For example, poor water quality can cause pumps and filters to fail. On the flip side, poorly maintained filters or pumps can contribute to poor water quality. Rather than asking the general question, “What’s wrong with my hot tub?” consider these more specific questions:
- Why is the water cloudy?
- Why is my hot tub leaking?
- Why is the water cold?
- Why are the jets weak?
- Why isn’t the pump working?
Why is the water cloudy?
Cloudy water can be a problem with the chemical balance of the water, or a problem with filters, the pump, or a combination of all of these.
- Chemical imbalances change the pH/alkalinity, and sanitizer balance. The pH is a measurement of the levels of acidity or hydrogen ions. Alkalinity is the ability of the water to neutralize acidity. Test the water and adjust the balance by increasing or decreasing pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer as indicated. Balancing water chemistry can be tricky because there’s more to it than adding chemicals. The local experts, Central Coast Pool and Spa has been maintaining and repairing pools, spas, and hot tubs for the Atascadero, Templeton, and Paso Robles areas since 2012, and can answer your questions about water chemistry.
- Wearing oils and lotions into the hot tub, soil tracked in on bare feet, and debris like leaves or dead insects can change the chemical balance and clog filters.
- High levels of minerals (hard water) contribute to cloudy water or problems with the filters and pump. The minerals are primarily calcium and magnesium, but others can also be present. Using a water softener helps balance hard water.
- Algae growth can clog the filters and damage the pump.
- A pump that isn’t cycling properly can also result in cloudy water. Make sure the pump is cycling according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
The best remedies for avoiding cloudy water include keeping the water clean and chemically well-balanced, making sure the filters are clean, the pump is in good working order, and cycling sufficiently, and your hot tub is serviced on a regular schedule.
Why is my hot tub leaking?
Leaks can be the result of:
- Rubber components like O-rings, gaskets, and seals can deteriorate from exposure to water and chemicals. Leaks often appear around jets, fittings, joints, and pumps.
- Loose pipes and fittings.
- A cracked shell is less common but can occur due to earthquakes, foundation settling, or manufacturing defects.
- Frozen pipes, damaged valves, or faulty jets can also cause leaks.
Check for leaks near the base of the hot tub and around plumbing components. For minor leaks from fittings or joints, tightening connections or replacing worn gaskets might be the answer. Consult your hot tub’s manual or seek professional advice for specific repairs.
For complex leaks, cracks, or plumbing issues, contact a qualified hot tub and spa repair service near you. Coast Pool and Spa has the expertise and tools to diagnose and repair problems. You also get the benefit of maintenance services that help avoid future emergency repair services.
Why is the water cold?
Slipping into a cold hot tub is an unappreciated surprise. Heaters can fail due to corrosion from chemical imbalances in the water, clogged filters, or a tripped GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter).
The GFCI protects your hot tub in the event of an electrical malfunction. It can trip for several reasons, and resetting it might not solve the problem.
The GFCI also helps protect you from possible electrocution. When faced with an electrical problem, consult a hot tub repair professional and a licensed electrician. Electricity, especially when it involves water, is not a DIY job!
Why are the jets weak?
Most commonly, jets fail due to clogged jets or filters, or a failing pump, which brings us back to regular maintenance. Keeping filters clean prevents problems, including keeping the pump in good working order.
Weak jets are a signal something isn’t working. A breakdown in one component of the hot tub leads to breakdowns in the entire system.
Why isn’t the pump working?
A well-maintained pump lasts 7 to 10 years, depending on the quality and how well the hot tub is maintained. Neglect wears out a pump even earlier.
Signs of a failing pump can include:
- The most obvious, it doesn’t come on.
- Water isn’t circulating.
- Humming, whining, or unusual noises.
- It leaks.
A failing pump might be repairable, but the longer it’s neglected, the more costly the repairs or replacement.
Overall, investing in regular maintenance works in your favor for protecting your investment and getting most enjoyment possible from your hot tub.
Reach out to Central Coast Pool and Spa with your questions, and make an appointment for Hot Tub repair and service ! Call: (805) 610-6545
