Spa pumps and other spa parts can be purchased from online retailers at lower prices
Did you try to have a hot tub soak and find that the water isn’t circulating properly? Now that would really be disappointing.
The hot tub pump and motor are the most hard-working components in your hot tub and are also the most common trouble of spa owners. It is important to know some hot tub pump troubleshooting and when you may need to replace completely.
We prepared this quick guide about spa and hot tub pumps so you will understand the basic operations of your pump and how to resolve simple issues.
Without the pump, a hot tub won’t work at all. As it works really hard, it is understandable that it will run into problems sooner or later.
It is also important to know if it is worth it to fix a spa pump or when it is best to simply purchase a replacement spa pump from Spa911.
MOST COMMON SIGNS YOUR SPA PUMP IS IN TROUBLE
Pump failure is common among aging spa pumps. The good news is that by replacing your pump, you can continue to enjoy your spa for many more years.
Below are some of the most common problems concerning spa pumps.
LOUD NOISE COMING FROM THE PUMP
For old pump and motor assembly, it may be time to replace them. The impeller may be broken and needs to be replaced.
SQUEALING OR HIGH PITCHED SOUND
Something could be rubbing against the shaft. Inspect the shaft and remove foreign objects. Check, too, if the voltage is correct.
LEAKS AROUND THE PUMP
Water leaks are a sign of problems with the pump seals. You will see a puddle below the pump which indicates the seals are defective.
These components can be replaced individually. As a rule of thumb, pumps that are 2 or 3 years old need to be replaced entirely, not just the wet end or the motor. In this way, there will be fewer problems along the way.
TO FIX OR TO REPLACE THE HOT TUB PUMP
For a hot tub pump that is having problems, you may need a budget of $200-$500 for repairs. This could be due to:
- no water coming out
- no water flow
- water leaks
- water not heating
Many issues could face your hot tub, among them electrical issues. It could also be a problem with the breaker or circuit board. It is always better to get a professional to address electrical problems.
The spa controller handles the pump and blower and there could also be issues with it. Controllers are part of a spa pack and can last for many years. If you replace the whole spa pack, you may spend around $600 to $800. If the pump and blower are still functioning properly, you can opt for simple repair which could cost less at about $400.
You can find high quality spa pumps online. The fact is that you will spend less on a complete brand- new pump than replacing just the motor.
EASY STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS FOR CHECKING THE SPA PUMP
Before you replace a spa pump, you’ll want to check what the problem is.
There are just a few things that could go wrong. The outline line or inlet line could be clogged. The pump could also be leaking around the base or not working at all. There are simple troubleshooting tips for these problems. However, any other problems should be looked at by a professional.
# 1- DIAGNOSE THE ISSUE
In case the pump is not flowing or leaking, check for the problem. Is the intake not working? It could be a clog. You can fix it by removing the obstruction. You don’t need to remove the pump if the issue is caused by objects that may have jammed in the jets.
# 2 – DISCONNECT ELECTRIC POWER
Never perform repairs on the hot tub or spa pump without disconnecting the power. This may require a separate box or a circuit breaker near the pump. Don’t fix water moving devices when the electric power is running.
# 3 – REMOVE SPA PUMP
You can remove the spa circulation pump which means removal of 4-8 bolts. Some spa models use other mounting methods. If you can’t get a bolt to turn, spray some WD-40 or penetrating fluid and let the bolts set for 5-10 minutes.
# 4 – CLEAN THE CONNECTOR
Connectors should be cleaned thoroughly. Check the gaskets and washers or the mounts. Replace damaged or worn out gaskets. To get a tighter seal, put some oil on the filter or washer and rub onto the surface. Look for foreign objects that may be lodged inside. Small pieces of plastic can cause the pump to be jammed.
# 5 – REMOUNT SPA PUMP
Mount the pump back on the motor carefully. If there is a gasket, properly put in place. Install the bolts snugly in clockwise direction. Tighten each bolt to get a consistent seal.
# 6 – TURN ON POWER AND TEST
Turn on the motor power. Check if all is well and leak has been fixed. If the leaks continue, repeat the whole process. After a second try and the problem persists, you might need to call a plumber.
# 7 – PROBLEM WITH MOTOR
If the motor is not working, the issue is not the spa pump. It is advisable to let an experienced technician handle motor problems.
You can consult spa parts and service experts in Ontario and Montreal for problems with your spa pump or spa issues.
HOW MUCH IS THE COST OF SPA PUMP REPLACEMENT?
A malfunctioning pump is one of the most common problems with older hot tubs. Pumps have a wet and dry end. The wet end has an impeller that moves water around the spa. The dry end has an electric motor that rotates this impeller. If either of the two is faulty, it may be necessary to have the pump repaired or replaced.
You may hear humming or hammering from the hot tub and these may indicate a broken spa pump. There could be a jam in the impeller or bearings that are worn out are causing a whining sound. The pump could also have a water leak which would require replacement of pump seals.
A motor replacement could cost less than $200 but a complete pump replacement could run up to $500 or more. Pump seals and water rings are inexpensive and can be bought from retailers or home improvement stores.
Motors, spa pumps, and other components of a spa pack are easily found in online spa parts and accessories shops such as Spa911. Repairs and installation are best handled by professionals. Labor costs can add up to the total cost of spa pump replacement.
If you need to replace a spa pump, you should replace with similar horsepower as the old one. This will ensure the same force of the water coming from the jets. Generally, spa motors have 1 horsepower for 4-6 standard size jets. It is important to get the right horsepower as overpowering could result in damage to the equipment or the plumbing.
HOT TUB AND SPA TIPS – BRING YOUR OLD SPA BACK TO LIFE
Old hot tubs and spas can still be enjoyed with simple system replacement
Many people discard old or worn-out spa control systems. In many cases, these are still serviceable and can still be enjoyed simply by replacing the old control system. This means saving thousands of dollars for a new spa.
Replacing parts of an old hot tub or spa is not complex. With basic understanding of what is involved, you could bring your old spa back to life.
Here’s what it will take to renew good function of your spa.
THE SPA CONTROL SYSTEM
This system (commonly referred to as a spa pack) is the brains of your spa. It controls the functions of your unit and includes components namely jet pumps, circulating pump, ozonator, blower, and light.
The control system also includes the heater, pressure sensor or flow switch, thermostat and temperature sensor for water heating.
Your spa could be electronic control system or air control electro-mechanical system. You can easily identify the system you have by checking the topside controls. This will tell you what the best replacement system you can buy.
When you have determined whether you need a digital or an air system, you can now shop online for the replacement system most appropriate to your hot tub.
If your hot tub requires a new spa pump or air blower, your friendly spa technician will recommend the most appropriate replacement parts.
Why blow your hard earned money on a new spa when it costs so much less to fix it with spa parts replacement?
HOW TO REMOVE YOUR SPA PUMP FOR REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT
Before ordering a new pump, you must remove the old one to measure and inspect specifications.
Disconnect the electrical power and remove the access panel. Spas may have 2 gate or slice valves located at either side. Close these valves before removing the pump. If there are no valves, you must drain the water.
You must also disconnect the bare copper bonding wire from the ground terminal. Unscrew the 2 unions and remove the mounting screws from the base bracket.
You can now lift the pump out of the equipment bay even with the power cable still attached to the control system.
The old power cable can be reused with a new replacement pump if it is still in good condition. However, if you buy a new spa pack, a new power cable will be provided.
HOW TO CONNECT A NEW REPLACEMENT SPA PUMP
After receiving your spa pump replacement, you will need to install it using the removal process but in reverse.
Make sure that the power is disconnected. Remove a wiring plug from the new pump and place a cable connector clamp.
Remove from the end of the new pump motor the wiring access cover.
Attach the power cable wire and ground using the wiring diagram. Replace the access cover and tighten the cable clamp.
For proper connection to the new pump, make sure the wire ends are clean.
If you have any doubts or feel you are inexperienced with troubleshooting, you can call a spa technician for assistance.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SPA PUMP REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT
Many spa owners have common questions about the performance of their spa or its most hard-working component, the spa pump.
Here are a few frequently asked questions that may help you decide on what you need for optimum performance of your spa or hot tub.
Will I enjoy a better massage if I get a bigger pump?
Manufacturers often mention horsepower of pumps. The horsepower is measured with a true rating system which describes the initial thrust when the pump engages until it falls to a continuous but lower horsepower level.
Better jets, flow control, and good plumbing are more critical than horsepower. Even with a lower horsepower pump in your spa, it will still produce the same jet power. After all, you want a comfortable massage, not a hot water experience that would feel like you are going up a mountain.
Further, overpowering your system could also cause damage to your spa.
Why doesn’t my hot tub stay hot?
There could be a faulty component like the circulation pump, heater, or thermostat. Sometimes, there could be insufficient water in the tub. You spa could also be using more heat than the heater can replace. You can ask an electrician to check if you have the proper fuse and cable supply.
How do you stop hot tub leaks?
Leaks in your hot tub can be frustrating for hot tub owners. The seals of the pump may be faulty and would need to be fixed.
How can I ensure that I get the right replacement pump?
To be assured of buying the most appropriate replacement spa pump, you should remove the existing one. Inspect and take measurements before ordering a new one.
Where is the best place to buy spa pump replacement?
Spa911 carries a wide assortment of spa pumps often at discounted prices. You can take advantage of free shipping anywhere in Canada within 48 hours.
Is it better to replace the whole spa pack or just the faulty component?
You can opt to replace only the faulty component like the motor. But if your system is over 3 years old, it is advisable to replace the spa pack completely. It could save you more money on repairs in the long run.
Should I buy the same brand of spa pump?
It is important that the spa pump replacement is compatible with your system. In general, different brands work just as well as proprietary pumps for as long as they are of the same type.
How do I know the speed of my spa motor?
A spa motor can have 1 or 2 speeds. The best way to check is to look at the tag on your motor that says RPM. If it has 2 numbers there, example 3450/1725, it is a 2 speed motor. Otherwise, you have a 1-speed motor.
What information do I need to order a replacement spa pump?
Most information to replace a spa pump is provided in the old pump label. You need to check the frame size (either 48 frame or 56 frame), voltage (120v or 230v), size of plumbing (2 inch, 1 ½ inch, 2 ½ inch, or even 3 inch), and horsepower.
What brand is most recommended for a replacement spa pump?
Note that manufacturers don’t manufacture their own pumps. When sourcing for a replacement pump, check the hot tub brand, the pump brand, and pump motor brand. You’ll be able to find the best replacement pump with the exact pump model or a pump that has the same specifications.
SAVE MONEY WITH REGULAR SPA SERVICING
To help avoid repairs, you can get your spa serviced regularly. Professionals can detect problems early which can save you a lot of money on repairs and replacement parts.
Professionals who maintain your hot tub will check:
- Heating element
- Jets
- Pump
- Breakers
- structural damages
Based on their findings, cost for repairs could range from $500 or more as well as minimum charges for inspection and repairs.
You can count on Spa911 to bring the power back to your spa with our complete line of spa parts and accessories. We have long years of experience in providing hot tub and spa solutions all across Canada.
Are you ready to order your replacement spa pump? You can find all spa pump parts for the right replacement for your spa or hot tub.
With our unbeatable prices and amazing warranty, you can easily buy your spa parts and accessories today.
