Hot Tub & Swim Spa Maintenance and Repair
The Big Questions
At Motor City Hot Tubs, we make it a point to work with the best manufacturers in the business, but even the most well-crafted hot tub will eventually need maintenance and maybe even repair. When something goes awry with your hot tub, most people ask themselves one of three questions: ‘Does the warranty cover this,’ ‘How much could this cost,’ and ‘Can I fix it myself.’ Understanding the difference between routine maintenance you can handle and what will require an expert can save you lots of time and money.
Does the warranty cover this?
If your malfunctioning spa is still under warranty, you will want to contact the dealer who sold you the unit. They should be able to help you in filing a claim and scheduling a service visit. In addition, if you are unsure about the status of your warranty, the dealer should be able to help you with that information as well.
How much could this cost?
Can I fix it myself?
We recommend that the only type of servicing the average hot tub owner performs is general maintenance, as outlined in our DIY section. Of course, we make this recommendation for your safety. There is also a risk when attempting repairs yourself of voiding the warranty. However, the good news is that regular maintenance can go a long way toward keeping your hot tub running properly for years.
The Three Tips of DIY Maintenance
#1 - Let it Flow!
The easiest way to keep your system clean and ensure it stays running correctly is through regular use, even if it is just to run it for a few minutes each day. When you let your hot tub sit with stagnant water for too long, it can lead to the build-up of unwanted particles throughout your system. When you run the system, the water gets cycled through multiple filters, which work to clear any unwanted substances from the water.
#2 - Keep it Clean
When it comes to taking care of your hot tub, having a regular cleaning scheduled can help keep mildew at bay along with prolonging your system’s life. Wipe down the shell, jets, waterline, and even the cover with white vinegar. This light cleaning will only go so far, and we recommend you completely drain and thoroughly clean the entire hot tub every few months. This deep clean is an excellent time to inspect and clean your filters as well.
#3 - Find Balance
Keeping the PH levels of the water in your hot tub or swim spa at the proper levels can go a long way toward your system having a long life. You see, when the water gets too acidic, it can begin to eat away at the hardware in your spa. On the other hand, if it becomes too basic, it will compromise the effectiveness of your sanitizers, which will lead to cloudy water. Your pH level should be in the 7.4 to 7.6 range.
Signs you need to call in a professional
There is a leak!
When the water level keeps dropping, and you notice water pooling around the base, you have a leak. Leaks can lead to a dangerous situation if occurring near electrical components. You should disconnect the unit from the power and drain the tub before calling in a specialist.
The system keeps shutting down
Repeated shutdowns could be an indication that some safety switches are triggering to avoid a severe failure. When you find yourself needing to restart your system often, it is a good sign that you should call a technician.
Water Temperature Is Unstable
If your water temperature keeps dropping or your circulating pump never seems to cut off, you may have an issue with your system’s thermostat. A service technician can help you diagnose the problem and provide you with a solution.
Control and Remote Issues
If your control panel or remote is no longer maintaining a connection, it may just need a restart or battery replacement. Consulting your owner’s manual should guide you through the restart process. If you continue to experience issues, then a repair or replacement may be necessary.