FAQ
Hot Tub FAQ's and Troubleshooting
Q. Why is my spas water foamy?
A. Many factors that can cause foamy spa water such as; dirty filter, high TDS (Total Dissolved Solids", laundry detergent residue in swim suit, deodorant, skin care products, lotions etc.. A foam reducer such as No Foam can be used to temporarily relieve foamy water while you are using the spa. Ultimately your spa will need to be drained and refilled every 3 to 6 months (depending on use) to keep TDS below 2000ppm.
Q. My Jacuzzi Hot Tub is showing a Watchdog error code.
A. Typically a watchdog error means there is a flow issue or sensor error. Try cleaning or replacing your filters and then resetting your spa. If the error code continues please contact us to schedule a service visit. Our spa techs maintain a large assortment of Jacuzzi spa sensors and parts on all our service trucks.
Q. My topside control keypad is showing the error message "FL" / "FLO" / "DR" and will not heat.
A. Try cleaning the filter and resetting your spa first (by shutting the breaker Off for a few minutes then back On). This error message is commonly associated with a lack of water flow. If the error message will not go away even without the filter in place, please contact our spa repair specialists at Hot Tubs Unlimited (803) 522-8561
Q. My spa keeps tripping the circuit breaker.
A. Be sure to reset the breaker completely by pushing it all the way into the OFF position before attempting to flip it back on. If the breaker will not stay ON, you may have a faulty heating element, jet pump, circulation pump, circuit board, Ozone, or even a bad breaker. A faulty spa component is most likely the culprit of a tripped breaker.
Q. After I drained and refilled my spa, the pumps do not work. I can hear them but there is no movement.
A. Your spa may be experience an air lock, in which air gets trapped in the pump and is unable to catch a prime. To avoid this we recommend filling your spa with the garden hose inside the skimmer or "filter area" to avoid an Air Locked condition. Remove the filter and insert the garden hose into the filter well. In the event of an air lock try draining your spa and refilling it through the skimmer.
Q. Can I drain my spa in the winter?
A. It is not recommended to drain your spa in the winter unless you have it professionally winterized. When you drain your spa there is still several gallons of water left in the plumbing, pumps or skimmer compartment. If all of the pipes, valves and equipment are not properly winterized there can be extensive damage caused to your spa. Otherwise we highly recommend using your spa all year round!
Q. Can I build a deck around my spa?
A. Yes, just plan ahead for access into all 4 sides of the spa. Remove any screws that would otherwise be inaccessible once the deck is finished. Experienced contractors will build access panels or trap doors for adequate service. Having to remove a spa from a deck or enclosure to repair a minor leak can be quite costly and labor intensive so plan accordingly.
Q. Can I convert my hot tub to salt water?
A. Although there are several saltwater conversion systems out there, converting a spa that was not originally designed to operate with saltwater may experience premature equipment failures when converted to saltwater and/or void your manufacturers warranty. Your average hot tub was not designed for saltwater use and does not contain a sacrificial anode, titanium heater, Viton pump seals or other supporting materials often used in the design of salt water spas.
