Tag: new pump

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Cleaning Your Spa Jets for a Better Experience

Cleaning and maintaining a hot tub’s spa jets is something that can improve jet pressure, add a longer life to the jets, in improve the user experience.

Overall, jet maintenance is a fairly simple thing to do, yet it is mainly forgotten over the years.

Even occasional maintenance can help a spa get back to the hydrotherapy it had when the spa was first installed. Clean jets will allow you to adjust volume and pressure just as they were designed to do, and rotating jets will spin normally again.

There are normally two main things that reduce jet efficiency; sand/dirt and calcium/minerals. But they can be removed with this jet maintenance process.

  • A jet can be opened by turning its’ outer ring from left to right.

  • With the spa pumps off, close the jet by turning the outer ring all the way to the left.

  • To remove the jet, give it another 1/4 turn. For stuck jets, use a pair of rubber gloves from the kitchen to get a good hold on the outer ring. Sometimes you may need to drain the water below the jets to get a better grip. Also, occasionally, you may need to apply inward pressure before the final ¼ turn (think “aspirin bottle”)

  • After you remove the jets, you can soak them in a container filled with water and white vinegar for 3-4 hours. A 50% mixture of each is generally sufficient.

  • Swirl the jets in the solution every hour or so to rinse off some of the sand and/or calcium, as it begins to loosen

  • When the time is up, rinse the jet with fresh water from a hose or the kitchen sink

  • Rotating jets should spin as if the were new. If they don’t, the bearing may be worn and the whole jet assembly must be replaced

  • To re-install the jet: insert the jet into the housing, and rotate it to the right. The jet should easily lock.

Note: Jets of the same size and style are often interchangeable and can be put anywhere you want them

Following this jet cleaning process can lead to longer jet life, better pressure, and a more enjoyable experience.

If you are needing jets, we carry a wide range of them, from all major brands:Hot Tub Jets & Replacement Parts | Easy Spa Parts

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Hot Tub Circulation Pump Not Working? Common Causes & Fixes

The circulation pump in a hot tub is responsible for maintaining water quality and ensuring the spa’s overall operation, which in some cases involves being the pump responsible for heating the water. It moves the water through a filtration system, which helps distribute heat evenly, prevent stagnation, and filter out impurities.

However, when the hot tub circulation pump isn’t turning on, makes strange noises, or simply isn’t working correctly, it can lead to various issues like the spa not heating, poor water circulation, compromised filtration, and damage to other spa components.

A hot tub circulation pump that doesn’t turn on is a common issue for hot tub owners, and it can stem from several underlying causes. Understanding these causes and how to troubleshoot them can help you resolve the problem on your own.

This article will explore the most common reasons for a hot tub circulation pump not working and provide practical solutions to help you get your spa running smoothly again.

Reasons and Solutions for a Hot Tub Circulation Pump Not Working

If your hot tub pump isn’t working properly, several issues could be causing the problem. These issues range from simple fixes like air in the lines to more complex problems. Addressing the reasons why your circulation pump isn’t working can help restore the spa’s functionality and ensure an enjoyable soaking experience.

Air in the lines/Circulation Pump

Air bubbles trapped in the circulation lines, also known as an airlock, can prevent the pump from priming and operating effectively.

Possible fixes include:

  • Bleeding the lines: Start by turning the hot tub off. Then, open the air relief valve on the pump to release any trapped air. Allow the pump to run for a few minutes to purge the remaining air from the lines.
  • Please see Immediately Purge Your Circulation Pump Air Lock
  • Checking for leaks: Inspect the circulation lines for any leaks or loose fittings that allow air to enter the system. Repair any leaks and ensure all connections are tight to prevent further issues.

An airlock can also cause your jets to stop working correctly. Read more about troubleshooting hot tub jets.

Clogs

Another reason your tub circulation pump might not work is a clog. The accumulation of debris, dirt, or scale in the circulation system can lead to clogs, affecting the pump’s ability to circulate water.

Possible fixes for clogs include:

  • Inspect and clean filters: Remove the hot tub filters and inspect them for debris or buildup. Clean the filters thoroughly to remove any contaminants. Replace the filters if they’re damaged or excessively worn.
  • Clear blockages: Check the circulation lines, intake valves, and pump impeller for obstructions. Use a pipe cleaner or a jet line flush to clear out any debris or scale buildup.
  • Flush the system: Consider flushing the entire circulation system with a dedicated cleaner to remove stubborn clogs and buildup. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the proper use of cleaner.

Defective Pump

Over time, the bearings in the circulation pump can wear out or become damaged, leading to malfunctioning.

Possible fixes for this include:

  • Replace the pump: If you suspect the pump is defective, you may need to replace it. We recommend consulting a professional technician for this task unless you have experience.
  • Please see Installing a New E10 Series Circulation Pump for installation instructions for a Dimension One circulation pump.
  • Check for motor damage: Inspect the pump motor for any signs of damage or wear that may have contributed to the failure.

Troubleshooting Your Hot Tub’s Circulation Pump

Hot tub pump troubleshooting can help you identify issues and ensure proper spa functionality. Whether you suspect a problem or want to perform routine maintenance, knowing how to test the circulation pump can help you diagnose and address any issues. Here’s how to test a circulator pump:

  1. Turn off the power: Before performing any tests or maintenance on your hot tub and wiring a spa pump, always ensure the power supply is off at the breaker panel to ensure your safety and the integrity of the equipment.
  2. Locate the circulation pump: The circulation pump in your spa is typically located near the equipment area and is connected to the filter system.
  3. Check for obstructions: Before testing the pump, inspect it for any visible obstructions or signs of damage. Clear away any debris or obstacles that might hinder its performance.
  4. Listen for sounds: Turn the power back on and listen for any unusual sounds coming from the pump. A humming noise may indicate the pump is receiving power but won’t start. Meanwhile, a grinding noise may indicate bad bearings.
  5. Check for water flow: If the pump appears to be running but you’re unsure if water is flowing properly, observe the flow through the pump hose or check the circulation jets in the hot tub. A lack of water flow could indicate a blockage in the circulation lines or a malfunctioning impeller.
  6. Inspect the pump: If you suspect a blockage or mechanical issue, you may need to inspect the pump more closely or replace it. Turn off the power and carefully remove the pump housing to access this component. Check for any signs of debris or damage that may affect its operation.

Tips for Maintaining Your Hot Tub Circulation Pump

Maintaining your hot tub circulation pump is the best way to keep it in good working condition. Here’s how you can perform proper maintenance to ensure optimal performance and prolong the circulation pump’s lifespan:

  • Keep the filter clean: Regularly clean and replace your hot tub filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Dirty filters can restrict water flow and cause the pump to work harder, increasing wear and tear.
  • Flush the system: Periodically flush the entire circulation system with clean water to remove any debris or scale. This prevents clogs and ensures optimal water flow throughout the system.
  • Inspect for leaks: Routinely inspect the circulation pump, fittings, and connections for any signs of leaks. Addressing leaks can prevent water damage and prolong the lifespan of the pump and other components.
  • Protect from freezing: If you live in a cold climate, take measures to winterize your hot tub and circulation pump from freezing.
  • Schedule professional inspections: Consider scheduling regular maintenance inspections with a qualified hot tub technician. They can identify and address any potential issues early on, saving you time and money on repairs.

Hot Tub Circulation Pump Not Turning On FAQs

How do I know if my hot tub circulation pump isn’t working?

Several signs indicate your hot tub circulation pump isn’t working properly, including:

  • Lack of water movement or circulation in the tub
  • The Spa is not heating.
  • Unusual noises coming from the pump, like grinding or humming
  • Inconsistent water temperature or difficulty maintaining desired heat levels
  • Hot tub error codes on the control panel like FLO, FLC, HL, etc.
  • Visual signs of damage, leaks, or other issues with the pump

Here’s how to tell if a hot tub circulation pump is working:

  • Water movement and circulation
  • The spa is heating (if it uses a circulation pump for heat)
  • Operational sounds like a low hum
  • Good water flow
  • Even heat distribution

Do you need a circulation pump in a hot tub?

In many cases, a circulation pump is the main pump for heating the Spa water. This makes it essential for maintaining water quality, distributing heat evenly, and ensuring effective filtration in a hot tub. Without a circulation pump, water would become stagnant, leading to poor water quality, increased risk of algae growth, and potential damage to the hot tub components. In some cases, the circulation pump is used only for the ozone system, so if it fails, the ozone will not work.

Is it easy to replace a malfunctioning hot tub circulation pump?

Replacing a malfunctioning hot tub circulation pump may be easy for some, but not others. It depends on your mechanical skills, the accessibility of the pump, and your spa’s specific model. While you may feel comfortable replacing the pump yourself, others may prefer to hire a professional hot tub technician for the task.

Keep Your Circulation Pump Running Smoothly

Ensuring your hot tub’s circulation pump is in good working order is essential for enjoying a relaxing soak without worries. You can keep your hot tub’s circulation system running smoothly by understanding common issues, troubleshooting techniques, and maintenance tips.

If you ever need to replace your hot tub circulation pump or other spa components, consider Easy Spa Parts for convenient access to high-quality replacement pumps and parts. With the proper care and attention, you can continue enjoying the benefits of your hot tub for many seasons.

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Selecting the Right Replacement Pump for your Hot Tub

Selecting the right pump for your Hot Tub

Because most hot tubs use the jet pump as the main pump that moves water through the heater to increase the spa water temperature, it is common for a pump to start showing signs of wear and tear after several years of operation.

Sometimes, finding the correct pump replacement can be as simple as calling the spa manufacturer and asking for the replacement pump part number, or locating the pump part number on the pump itself, then searching online for that replacement.

However, in many cases, especially for older spas, the spa manufacturer may not be in business any longer, or the pump manufacturer has discontinued the spa’s specific pump or made changes to the pump so that it can be used across many makes and models. When this happens, you can reference your spa pump’s specifications to find the correct replacement pump.

A few things to note when searching for a pump replacement:

1. A spa pump is made up of a motor and a wet-end (the wet-end is often what is called, the “pump”)
2. Often the “part number” that you see on your spa pump is actually the motor part number only. If you want a complete replacement pump, you will need to confirm you choose the pump with the correct or most closely matching wet-end, and a motor with closely matching specifications.
3. HP (horsepower)is not an industry-standard measurement. Due to this, over the years, parts manufacturers have embellished HP. When searching for a replacement pump, you do not need to search for a pump matching HP, as the true match for your pump’s power and specs will be amperage.

What you will see on a pump/motor label when searching for a matching replacement:


Again, do not worry about HP (Horsepower), as that is not the true measurement of pump specs.

Do not search for a replacement pump by the motor model or part number, as there are many pumps with vastly different wet ends, that use the same motor.

After you have confirmed the pump motor specifications, you will need to determine your wet-end style and size.

When choosing the correct hot tub pump or wet-end replacement, in addition to knowing the specifications such as Horsepower, Amperage, Speeds, Voltage and Frame Size, you will need to confirm your pump wet-end style and the connection sizes of the intake and pressure side.

There are two primary orientations you will generally encounter, either the more standard side discharge, where the discharge is off-center from the intake, or center discharge, where the pressure side is centered with the intake side.

Side Discharge

Center Discharge

You will also need to confirm the wet-end connection sizes to make sure that it fits correctly with your pump union plumbing connections.

The most common sizes are 1.5”, 2”, and 2.5”

To determine the size of your wet-end connection (also called buttress), measure the outside diameter (OD).

If the OD measures closest to 2-3/8”, then the wet end connections are 1.5”
If the OD measures closest to 3”, then the wet-end connections are 2”
If the OD measures closest to 3-5/8”, then the wet-end connections are 2.5″

*Please note that some pumps have different-sized connections for the suction and pressure side of the wet end, so it is a good idea to confirm both connections.

Take note of the style of wet-end your pump has. Often there are other labels, part numbers, or stickers on the pump motor or wet-end indicating the manufacturer of wet-end used.

Look for Manufacturer names like:

A. Aqua Flo
B. Balboa
C. Dura-Jet
D. Jacuzzi
E. LX
F. Sta-Rite
G. Theramax
H. Waterway
I. Ultima
J. Ultimax

These manufacturer names, among others, can help in determining the correct wet-end style for your replacement pump.

Many manufacturers also included other labels on the complete pump that show the part number of the motor/wet-end combination. This part number can very often be referenced for finding an adequate replacement pump.

Some examples of these part numbers are:

For Aqua Flo:

For Balboa/DuraJet

For LX:

For Waterway:

Please also email us at techhelp@easyspaparts.com, so one of our experts spa techs can make a pump recommendation for you!