Why is my hot tub not heating up?

If you are a hot tub owner, the last thing that you want to deal with are unexpected issues with the tub’s heating mechanism. When it comes time to enjoy a relaxing soak, no one is looking to troubleshoot their hot tub. That’s where this handy guide comes into play.

When you are in need of assistance, it can be hard to find an answer to the “why is my hot tub not heating up?” question. That’s why it is important to have access to a company that understands the ins and outs of pool and spa care. Be sure to contact Ajax Pool and Spa whenever you have questions that cannot readily be answered.

Their team of experts is more than happy to answer any and all queries that you may have about the status of your hot tub’s heating mechanisms. Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the most common reasons for this cumbersome hot tube issue.

Lack of Water Flow

If the water flow in the hot tub is not sufficient, it is not going to work properly. Fortunately, this is a fairly simple fix. In most instances, this problem is caused by a dirty spa filter. Some hot tub owners may be able to address the issue by taking the time to remove their filters and clean them out. This may be all that is needed to remedy a water flow problem.

There are other common problems that will impede the heating of your hot tub if you are not careful. Anything from a clogged pump impeller to a closed valve to a clogged pipe could lead to unwanted heating questions. A blocked spa drain could also serve as a culprit in these situations. Check the hot tub to see if there are any screens on the side that have trapped additional debris that made its way past your filter.

Pressure Switch Is On The Fritz

Pressure switches are a great way to avoid low water flow issues but when they are on the fritz? A number of problems can take place. When the water pressure is too low, the heater is protected from overheating by the pressure switch. If the water flow is not sufficient, the heater automatically shuts down.

Fortunately, it is very easy for hot tub owners to test out their switch and make sure that everything is working accordingly. Use a jumper wire to connect the two wires, as this allows you to bypass the switch. If the switch is in need of adjustment, all it takes is a thumb wheel or a small slotted screw. This allows the hot tub owner to close their circuit at the pressure rating that works best for their needs.

Faulty Flow Switches

Some hot tubs will rely on a flow switch in tandem with a pressure switch or a flow switch alone. The flow switch will be triggered by the flow of the water, as opposed to water pressure. When the water flow is sufficient, two paddles are pushed together, and the circuit is able to close. When it is not? The flow switch is not able to close, and the heater cannot operate.

Jumper wires can be used to test the flow switch in the same manner as the pressure switch. The thumb wheel and small slotted screw are also utilized in these scenarios so that smaller adjustments can be made to the flow switch. In most cases, the factory-calibrated setting is the safest choice for the hot tub’s heater. Don’t make any serious adjustments without consulting the professionals.

Thermostat Problems

When you turn the thermostat dial to crank up the heat, there are simple ways to tell whether the unit has become faulty. If the thermostat is not providing the proper rise in temperature when the knob is turned, this could indicate that the sensor bulb has become corroded. If the hot tub is newer, the thermostat will be controlled by a temperature sensor.

The sensor is plugged into the main circuit board, which is found on the owner’s spa controller. From there, the probe end will slip into a thermowell. The probe and cord could be damaged if the hot tub is not heating up, so take a moment to inspect these items. Is it plugged into the panel properly? Is the control panel displaying an incorrect temperature? The topside control panel could be having issues and this will require professional assistance.

Spa Heating Element Is Not Working

The heating element functions in the same manner as a cooking element, except it is able to be submerged in water. If these elements are used without water around them; they are going to burn out far more quickly than the homeowner expects. When the spa heating element is not working, this could mean that there is a short in the coating that is designed to protect the element.

If hard water is being used, this can also lead to issues with the spa heating element. Salt systems are also problematic in these instances because they can cause scale to build up. When scale is given the chance to collect on the heating element, the heating will decrease. Eventually, the heating element is going to fail entirely, which is something to consider. The newer hot tubs are a bit easier to troubleshoot, thanks to their stainless-steel chambers that are easily removed.

Rely on the Professionals!

There is no dollar value that can be placed on a company that knows everything there is to know about all of the trickier aspects of hot tub repair. When you are having issues with your hot tub’s heating that is getting increasingly tougher to troubleshoot. The good folks at Ajax Pool and Spa are on hand and ready to help.

Hot tub maintenance can be tricky but there is no reason to fret. Whenever you are having any trouble identifying the cause of a hot tub heating issue, do not hesitate to contact the professionals. They will be able to remedy any hot tub heating issue you may be facing.