If in any doubt then call in your hot tub supplier. For more advice on hot tubs, check out more of our maintenance articles where we give you the rundown on how to correctly manage a hot tub. To do this you will need to deflate the hot tub, then holding the rear of the valve from inside the unit, turn clockwise with a wrench until tight. I use Marlig Fix-a-Leak (click to see on Amazon). Valves arent particularly expensive but the hot tub will probably need to be drained to make the repair and many hot tub owners eventually just do away with the valves altogether if they keep causing problems. All errors are reported and current temperature of the water, heating state and other information.Updated - 10/05/2020 - Part two now also including chemical dosing and cost for use: https://youtu.be/gajNw_jbN8gUpdate 25/03/2021 - Looks like seals are now available via a 3rd party on ebay UK - https://ebay.us/3fMsdcThanks to Carl for pointing this out to me. Leaking pipe unions Luckily this one is much easier to fix. As far as fixing your hot tub is concerned replacing the pump seals is probably one of the most difficult fixes to achieve. We hope that this was helpful. But it helps if you apply it smoothly and neatly in the first place. But many hot tub leaks can be simple to find and cheap to correct. You'll probably have to remove the side panels to gain access to the light. Access the equipment compartment by removing the side panels and look for any signs of leaks or dampness. When I close the air inlet to allow no air to be drawn in with the jets, the drip stops. You can successfully repair small cracks with a, Bear in mind that most hot tub filter housings have some sort of drain plug in them as well. We have your back on any spa leak issue here at Hot Springs Pools & Spas. Need to, Your zip code will help us to provide you with the most up-to-date delivery information. "url": "https://blog.lesliespool.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Blog-1060x500-hot-tub-leaking-from-the-bottom.jpg", In addition, turn off or close the air bubble control, which usually controls the number of bubbles in the jets. If this is the case, you will probably need to replace the gasket or you can have a go at resealing it with silicone. The good news is that seals are replaceable and, as spare parts go, are relatively inexpensive. That is a good point, there could be something in behind the wall that's smelly and getting sucked into the air intake. Some links on this page may lead to us receiving a small commission at no additional charge to you. "url": "https://blog.lesliespool.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Blog-1060x500-hot-tub-leaking-from-the-bottom.jpg", Thanks for any insights you may provide. 6. Follow the manufacturers instructions, normally it only takes around 10 minutes to do this. Its really important that your hot tub stands on a firm-level base. Glue the couplers to the ends of the replacement pipe using a primer and PVC cement. (Empty, people & water), Click here to read my ultimate guide to identifying where you have a hot tub leak, Click here to read my complete review of Marlig Fix-a-Leak, Click here to read my guide on exactly how to know the difference between a leak and water evaporation in your hot tub, Remove the split nut (may need to be turned further). And there is a screw knob that lets air into the jet flow when it is heating, and also when you push the button to turn the jets on. Just dig it right out, using a screwdriver or large kitchen spoon, and search for the wettest area of the foam. Minor cracks in pipes and small leaks can be treated with a spa sealer or Plast Aid. She holds a Master of Science in Publishing from Pace University. *Please note that I am not liable for quotes, products, claims or any work performed through BuyerZone or its suppliers. If you see foam and bubbles, the air-valve is loose, and you will need to secure it. Hot tub pump leaks are quite common, and there are a few areas you should look at as leaks can come from multiple points. Hopefully, you will now be able to locate a wet patch on the floor by the side of the hot tub which will give you an idea of the location of the leak. So what are the main reasons that a hot tub might spring a leak? Hot tub chemicals can be confusing. This is because knowing everything you can about leaks will be your first line of defense against them. The first step in fixing this issue is to get the hot tub ready to prevent a water leak or other problems with the mechanisms. We are a registered 501(c)3 non-profit that is funded by user donations. Afterwards, dry with a paper towel making sure no wetness remains before continuing with the next step. Some connections are easy and only need to be tightened or sealed while others may need a full replacement. "publisher": { Regardless, there are all kinds of reasons a tub can leak. Hot tubs are designed to be used continuously and cheaper models will last around five years. Compare the jets in question to the others that work. ! But theres a lot more that goes into fixing hot tub leaks than that! The gaskets are also prone to wear and become damaged over time. A doctor's stethoscope or a simple paper cup can be used to listen for leaking water. Although its not usually an issue with the structure (although that has been known to happen, see further below), leak issues with the shell can occur at points where something is connected to it. Hot tubs use 3 basic valve types: shutoff valves, diverter valves, and air control valves. Stick the patch firmly and leave to dry for a couple of hours. Then, replace the access panel. What I did once when I had this happen was to use whats called a flexible coupling clamp (click to see on Amazon). Use oil filter pliers for extra strength as the fitting may be hard to loosen. We have your back on any spa leak issue here at Hot Springs Pools & Spas. Measure out the section so it fits perfectly. }, In some cases, there may even be multiple leaks at the same time. We do not provide medical advice or treatments from using these spas. link to How Much Does a Hot Tub Weigh? Its also possible that a cheaper hot tub may not have been put together so well and that the individual components may not be 100% compatible. I take the confusion out of it in a recent article. One, or both of them, have probably degraded. Top load filter leaks Top load filters have their water connections at the bottom and, as their name suggests the filter cartridge is put in from above. If you see wet foam and the source is unclear, the leak is probably inside the spray-on foam, making it very problematic to repair other than using liquid fix-a-leak products. But the leak could also be a crack in the shell or a loose light fixture. If your filter housing is leaking there are three probable problems. The first thing you need to do if you suspect the outside of your hot tub is to identify where the problem is. Shells are made from high-quality fiberglass thats specifically designed to resist leaking and provide long life. Getting it level (or at least within half an inch), will alleviate this problem, as more stress fractures can occur the longer it remains unbalanced. With all of this being said, we know how tricky leaks can be, so lets jump right into the facts. This could be because the inflation valve is leaking and happily there is a simple solution. In reality, they are a common area of leakage and, if you do have a leaky valve (which does in all fairness sound like a medical issue rather than a hot tub problem! Jet nozzles part number LQ4aStvC. But for any pipe, removal and replacement of the cracked section is the only way to fix it long-term. If the volute or wet end is leaking then it will probably be obvious as this type of crack lets out a lot of water. Check to make sure the tubs seals are tight. If this is the case, youll need to determine the location and culprit. If this pipe is hard to get to, you can wrap it in waterproof epoxy putty for a temporary fix. Are Cheap Hot Tubs Any Good? At that point, its best to fully replace the pump. Jets If any of the water jets are leaking, the leakage will show at the bottom. This includes items like skimmers, lights, pumps,unions, chlorinators and ozonators. "width": "1060", This post was created by Andrew. Heres what to do! "@type": "ImageObject", The reason is simple: TFPC (Trouble Free Pool Care) is a methodology, not a product that you must purchase. . Lets look at it first. Pentair Easytouch air temp shows 255, not sensor, With over 300,000 members, TFP is the largest and most influential pool & spa website on the Internet. Thank you for your business! 1-800-537-5437. Am I on the right track? Inspect the gasket. Poor workmanship/materials It goes without saying that a poor quality hot tub will be much more prone to leaking than a high-quality one. Help! For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Within the heater are the heater itself, the pressure switch, and other components any of which could be the culprit. Spa Air Control Valves. Unfortunately, that isnt always possible due to where its located and the age of the hot tub (it could be harder to find the parts). Refill the hot tub and wait for the water level to lower. Rather than putting the hose into the tub directly, open all the jets and then put the end of the hose into the filter well. Shop Online or at any of our 900+ retail stores! It doesn't take much of an obstruction to disrupt the water flow enough to cause this. Parts may become unusable (they will need to be replaced). As above, if the actual body of the filter is cracked you can have a go at sealing it with epoxy sealant or silicone. Old pipes are much more prone to cracking and old gaskets become brittle and less effective with age. Connections: Be sure to check all pipes, jets, and any other connections. "author": { It has to be said thats water is unpredictable and rather fickle. Both of these issues could potentially contribute to leaks further down the line. Again make sure that did the filter lid isnt cross-threaded and is sitting properly on the filter housing. Nothing is broken or cracked, etc. So, how do you fix biofilm in a hot tub? If you need to put the pump on and have the hot tub running to induce the leak this should also give you a clue as to the possible location of the leak as well. From below, where it is mounted at the deck, you can actually see a triangular shaped opening in the threaded portion, below the mounting nut. The fix for a leaking spa light is usually a newspa light kit, or the locknut just needs tightening. Cut the vinyl patch to size ensuring it completely covers the puncture and apply the adhesive. Let the pump run until a steady stream of water comes out of the air-bleed screw. It may not display this or other websites correctly. Top of the range models will go for up to 20 years and you can expect a mid-range hot tub to last about a decade. Waterproof epoxy can work for small cracks but it may not last as long as replacing it. The heating system is most likely to develop leaks at the gasket and split nut assembly on either side of the heater tube. I am stumped. Of course, age is always a factor as hot tubs dont last forever. So just click the link to read that now on my site. I not only get into which chemicals you need but also the ones you dont need that are a waste of money. Once dry, it can be sanded and buffed smooth. At the leak point, remove the foam insulation thats surrounding the pipe. Feel free to skip around at your leisure, but its definitely best to pay attention to each and every section. After the spa leak repair is complete and your spa is leaking no more, you can pick up a few cans of spray foam and replace most of what was taken out. Remove the union fittings where the leak is coming from (either from the pump to the heater, or the heater to the return line). The open ended tubes are either intakes for air flow controls, or possibly suction safety inlet in case filter is clogged. The shell is, after all, the biggest and most important component! A spa or hot tub thats leaking can be alarming. ! Today, were going to make sure you know the main causes of a hot tub leak and what you can do to avoid it as much as possible. Please tell me the hot tub didn't spring a leak in this weather , Unaffiliated Hot Tub Home Care offers specialized hot tub leak repair services to ensure that you get to enjoy your hot tub for years to come. Gaskets Gaskets are rubber made, and over time, they wear out, making them inefficient. Until we turned the pump on. Switch off the electricity and locate the leak. Even if you find a 2 piece, if its threaded, the thread may not be the same as your thread. But sometimes its hard to tell the difference between a leak and normal evaporation. Middle Class Dad is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies, but in no way increases the cost to you if you opt to make a purchase from my links. These can be caused over time especially if your hot tub isnt on a concrete pad thats perfectly level. You must log in or register to reply here. We advise waiting for 24 to 36 hours before re-inflating the spa, that way you will guarantee the patch is properly fixed. Air Control Valves. You can also try using a thread sealant like Teflon tape. If you know that there is going to be freezing weather you either need to keep your hot tub up and running at working temperature or drain and winterize it properly. "thumbnailUrl": "https://blog.lesliespool.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Blog-1060x500-hot-tub-leaking-from-the-bottom.jpg", Check if your finger is wet or damp (replace the fitting if this is the case). The disadvantage with doing this is that if your hot tub does spring a leak you will need to dig out all of the foam in order to find it and fix it. The o ring screws down onto the thread on one of the pipes to make a secure joint. If there is no water leaking from the Blower Port on the Liner, then you can confirm the source of the leak you have reported is . have a deflating Lay Z Spa check out this guide, how to inflate a portable spa when its full of water, Using the soap and water mix and fill the spray bottle with this mixture, you can then spray around the inflatable spa to determine where the problem is, If you see bubbles forming, you found the rupture. While, of course, its always ideal to replace a worn gasket or cracked pipe, the jets are often encased in spray-on foam. However, because this tubing is more flexible, it can become compromised and begin to leak. Lay-Z-Spa are one of the most popular manufacturers and according to them if your portable keeps deflating its for one of two reasons. (Empty, people & water). * Pricing, promotions and availability may vary by location and at lesliespool.com. Modern acrylics are incredibly strong and the chances are that your leak is actually coming from a jet or other fitting rather than the shell itself. So, what should I do If my hot tub is leaking? But ultimately, no matter where the leak is, eventually youre going to see it on the ground around the base of your hot tub. JavaScript is disabled. Trouble is, instead of air being drawn in, water trickles out.. whenever the heater is running or the jets are on. All Rights Reserved. This type of fix wont work on pipes that feed any of the main components of the hot tub so just be careful what you remove! The best way to fix a small crack in the acrylic shell is to do the following: For larger cracks or a chunk missing, you can use the above process in larger amounts. Most hot tub leaks come from the pump, it might need a new seal or housing. Again, let it set. A hot tub leak is something you need to address quickly and take action to correct before things get out of control. This spray insulation kit on Amazon will refill and insulate a fairly large area and it is also water repellant. It can also be a good idea to stand it on special-purpose rubber matting as this will soak up vibrations and also reduce the amount of noise that your hot tub makes. Hoping for no leaks! Follow these steps to correct leaks around a hot tube light: Start by shutting off the power to the hot tub and removing the side panels one at time. I might add that it isnt actually coming out above the deck, but rather it is coming from the opening in the twist fitting that is where the air is introduced when turned to that position. You are using an out of date browser. Turn off the filter system and the pump for the hot tub. That should do the trick. Cancel. Feel free to leave us a message and we will be in touch as soon as an agent is available. Then add water to the spa for a few minutes and watch closely where the water begins to run out. The plastic fitting for this line isnt too durable, and may split over time where it connects to the pumps face plate. This is a new problem.nothing was changed or worked on from last year when I didnt have this problem at all. If its not possible to access the leaks location, use leak fix products for small leaks, or waterproof epoxy putty for larger leaks. Be sure to inspect all valves located on your hot tub and replace any as necessary. It really depends upon your attitude, how much you use the hot tub and your financial position and priorities. Open and close the air intake nozzles periodically during the purge as well. The manifold with 8 nipples is glued into the topside panel mount so replacing this valve would be a botch if possible but I dont see where the valve is failing unless there is some kind of check valve built in that is leaking but still something is causing some back pressure.??? Oh dear ! Its responsible for sucking in water from the tub, pushing it through the filter to be cleaned, and then sending it back into the tub via the return jets. In most cases, if your hot tub leaks when the jets are on, theres either a small crack or a worn rubber gasket. Fill the hole using acrylic putty and then apply acrylic paint that matches the color of the shell. So normal wear and tear is the culprit. This latest problem, however, has me stumped: the water outtake hose is leaking from where it connects to the tub. Since this is behind the paneling, how pretty it looked didnt matter. The Heater: If the pump showed no signs of leakage, then the heater could be a potential issue. Fixing them isnt too difficult, but youll need to access the light from behind the shell. A pipe union is where two pipes are connected together with a screw connector o-ring. The bubbler started leaking last year due to a cheapo ball valve. But it can also be a loose connection on any of the jets or plumbing lines, many of which are encased in spray-on foam, making them hard to identify. "identifier": "" The most likely places for a pump leak are going to be the connections on each end of it. Freeze damage can shatter PVC pipes, but most spa plumbing leaks actually occur at the glue joints, or where the pipe is glued into a coupling, spa jet, union or tee fitting. If the hot tub is relatively new, some of the fittings can loosen during shipment, so tighten anything that feels loose. Spa purchases can be tricky, and you want to be covered should you run into a detrimental leak. link to How Do You Fix Biofilm in a Hot Tub? Turn off the power and use a flashlight to closely inspect the equipment compartment. Unzip and make sure there is no mold growing visibly. Youll need to purchase 2 PVC couplers (usually 1 wide), and a small piece of 1 flexible PVC pipe to replace the faulty section. But more importantly, a variety of ways to fix them. Leaking spa jets may need a new gasket (or just tightening). Most often this is wherever the leak is since thats where the water pressure is moving towards. JavaScript is disabled. But the most common leak with the heater will be at the pipes union fittings. CLICK HERE TO SEE JB WATER WELD ON AMAZON. This is an important step, as replacing the foam insulation helps the spa retain heat and block cold winter temperatures, too. You might find that an older hot tub without a full foam filling is more susceptible to vibration damage. But there are times when it wont work. To summarize the article, when a spa pump is leaking, it's either the shaft seal, unions or the wet end volute. 2023 Leslies Poolmart Inc. Were sorry we missed you; we look forward to assisting you soon. If this article doesnt do the trick in helping fix your hot tub leaking problem, stop by yourlocal Leslies for guidance from our team of pool and spa experts. What Should I Do If My Hot Tub Is Leaking? I examined the site closely and did . Every spa will develop a leak or two over their lifespan, they can happen for several reasons, including frequent usage, age of the unit, lack of maintenance, or being punctured by a sharp object such as a stone. This guide explains how to inflate a portable spa when its full of water and we explain how to look for signs your overinflating or if your spa is deflating for an unknown reason. This makes it easy for routing the water around the peaks and valleys of the shell, rather than having solid pipes that would take up space. Other valves have compartments bolted together with a gasket between the compartmentsthis is known to fail and cause a leak. It might well have an o-ring that needs replacing or maybe a washer or a gasket that is worn. Thanks Ahhsomeguy, I will definitely try that! If you notice one of your pipe unions leaking then it might just be a simple case of tightening it up. I found I had to tighten just a little bit more and I used a large round vice grip to do it (gently since the split nut is plastic). You ; we look forward to assisting you soon compartments bolted together with a paper towel sure... I am not liable for quotes, products, claims or any work performed through BuyerZone or its.... Unions, chlorinators and ozonators your zip code will help us to provide you with most... The side panels and look for any insights you may provide and ozonators sitting properly on the housing... `` width '': `` https: //blog.lesliespool.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Blog-1060x500-hot-tub-leaking-from-the-bottom.jpg '', this post was created by...., pumps, unions, chlorinators and ozonators unzip and make sure the tubs seals are tight the patch and. Damaged over time especially if your filter housing to be used continuously and models... Leaking and happily there is no mold growing visibly, Thanks for any pipe, and... Next step if this pipe is hard to loosen while others may need a new gasket ( just. Take the confusion out of control line isnt too durable, and may split over time, wear. It has to be replaced ) and block cold winter temperatures, too Pools... Refill and insulate a fairly large area and it is also water repellant simple solution enable in. Is always a factor as hot tubs are designed to resist leaking and happily there is a new problem.nothing changed. Ring screws down onto the thread may not be the same as your thread also water repellant next. Address quickly and take action to correct before things get out of it a! Cases, there may even be multiple leaks at the pipes to make sure the tubs seals are replaceable,... Designed to be said thats water is unpredictable and rather fickle also water.. Of hours to fully replace the pump, it can become compromised and begin leak. Links on this page may lead to us receiving a small commission at no additional charge to.! Stumped: the water jets are on line isnt too difficult, but youll to. The wall that 's smelly and getting sucked into the facts especially your! A pipe union is where two pipes are connected together with a spa sealer or Plast Aid and! There could be a potential issue and small leaks can be used continuously cheaper... Because knowing everything you can about leaks will be much more prone wear. Screw connector o-ring the confusion out of it in waterproof epoxy can for... This post was created by Andrew out of it in waterproof epoxy for! Down the line newspa light kit, or the jets are on: ''... Touch as soon as an agent is available to remove the side panels to gain access the... Leaks will be your first line of defense against them neatly in shell... Any pipe, removal and replacement of the replacement pipe using a screwdriver or kitchen. Spray insulation kit on Amazon is most likely to develop leaks at the gasket and split assembly... The thread may not display this or other websites correctly as spare parts go, are relatively.... The bubbler started leaking last year when I close the air intake nozzles periodically during the as! Fairly large area and it is also water repellant be hot tub leaking from air intake, and over time especially if your tub... Is clogged obstruction to disrupt the water level to lower of two reasons out whenever! Forward to assisting you soon replacement pipe using a thread sealant like tape... A temporary fix intakes for air flow controls, or the jets are leaking, the leakage will show the! Listen for leaking water couplers to the others that work the next step the same time log in or to! May become unusable ( they will need to access the light from behind the shell a recent article controls or! But sometimes its hard to loosen air flow controls, or the jets are on Regardless, there be! Additional charge to you again make sure that did the filter lid cross-threaded... ; Spas before proceeding to loosen fixing your hot tub and wait for the hot tub leaks come from pump... Buffed smooth probably one of the fittings can loosen during shipment, so tighten anything that feels loose to access. Cracking and old gaskets become brittle and less effective with age this or other websites correctly perfectly. Tightening ) putty and then apply acrylic paint that matches the color of the most difficult fixes to achieve the. Free to leave us a message and we will be in touch soon! Strength as the fitting may be hard to loosen of course, age is always a factor as tubs... Holds a Master of Science in Publishing from Pace University and become damaged over time, wear. To get to, your zip code will help us to provide you with the heater itself, air-valve! The problem is cracks but it may not hot tub leaking from air intake as long as the! Additional charge hot tub leaking from air intake you to access the equipment compartment cross-threaded and is sitting properly the! Get into which chemicals you need to determine the location and culprit tightening ) additional... Valve is leaking there are all kinds of reasons a tub can.! Isnt cross-threaded and is sitting properly on the filter housing is leaking brittle less! We missed you ; we look forward to assisting you soon epoxy for! Kinds of reasons a tub can leak other websites correctly to disrupt the water jets are leaking the! And other components any of our 900+ retail stores dont last forever bolted! Apply the adhesive the foam changed or worked on from last year due to a ball... Block cold winter temperatures, too skimmers, lights, pumps, unions chlorinators! Bubbler started leaking last year due to a cheapo ball valve or Plast Aid correct before get... Screws down onto the thread on one of the shell or a gasket that is a new seal housing... Marlig Fix-a-Leak ( click to see JB water WELD on Amazon but theres a lot that... Watch closely where the problem is secure joint also water repellant Please enable JavaScript in browser. Created by Andrew, lights, pumps, unions, chlorinators and ozonators might have... First place them isnt too durable, and you want to be used to listen for leaking water thats designed... Through BuyerZone or its suppliers water pressure is moving towards depends upon your attitude, how Does! Air inlet to allow no air to be tightened or sealed while may. Then add water to the tub, removal and replacement of the most popular manufacturers and according to them your! For quotes, products, claims or any work performed through BuyerZone or its suppliers potential issue biofilm in hot! To address quickly and take action to correct before things get out of it in epoxy. Simple solution leisure, but its definitely best to pay attention to each and every section a. Replacement of the water begins to run out the compartmentsthis is known to and. Its best to fully replace the pump for the water jets are leaking, thread. You suspect the outside of your pipe unions leaking then it might need full. Quotes, products, claims or any work performed through BuyerZone or its suppliers back any... That feels loose known to fail and cause a leak and normal.... You run into a detrimental leak small commission at no additional charge to you the out! Includes items like skimmers, lights, pumps, unions, chlorinators and ozonators making them inefficient pipe union where... That I am not liable for quotes, products, claims or any work through... Is most likely to develop leaks at the gasket and split nut assembly on either side the... Jets may need a new seal or housing at all that 's smelly and getting sucked into the intake! The same time take the confusion out of the cracked section is case... The good news is that seals are replaceable and, as replacing it too,. Inflation valve is leaking and provide long life this latest problem, however, me! For leaking water { it has to be replaced ) side panels look. Add water to the light to allow no air to be covered should you run into a detrimental.. Use Marlig Fix-a-Leak ( click to see JB water WELD on Amazon.... Or dampness and PVC cement or register to reply here the line a thread sealant like tape... Have probably degraded fix biofilm in a hot tub supplier heater are the reasons! Lights, pumps, unions, chlorinators and ozonators of it in a hot tub your! Of leakage, then the heater are the main reasons that a tub... Didnt matter high-quality one much more prone to leaking than a high-quality one the... Fitting may be hard to tell the difference between a leak and normal evaporation pump, it well... As spare parts go, are relatively inexpensive from the pump showed no signs leaks. Replacement pipe using a thread sealant like Teflon tape have probably degraded tub isnt on concrete! Suction safety inlet in case filter is clogged you notice one of the shell or a gasket is... Pump seals is probably one of the shell is, after all, the drip stops no! Water jets are leaking, the biggest and most important component financial and! Face plate completely covers the puncture and apply the adhesive system is likely. Vinyl patch to size ensuring it completely covers the puncture and apply the adhesive nut!