Its most often a failure of a rubber gasket or the PVC glue that holds 2 pieces of pipe together. That will be directly under the leak. You can also try using a thread sealant like. Do not use the tub for at least one hour, then; check your marker to see if there is a drop or not. Allow them to run for 15 seconds and then turn them off. When water weight isnt evenly distributed, it can cause stress fractures in the shell. Wherever you see dark water appearing first should indicate the leak location. If you have 1 that failed (like I did), its a good idea to go ahead and replace both as chances are they are the same age and the other one is close to failure also. "thumbnailUrl": "https://blog.lesliespool.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Blog-1060x500-hot-tub-leaking-from-the-bottom.jpg", Leaks from jets, unions and connectors might just need tightening or replacement gaskets. Jet nozzles part number LQ4aStvC. The JB Weld is the white putty stuff you see spread out on both ends of that small section. Here is a picture of JB Water Weld I used to fix 2 spots that were leaking. Thanks Ahhsomeguy, I will definitely try that! My next move will be to try to ascertain if any of the jets are clogged or not allowing proper flow. I am stumped. If the problem persists after you have repeated the process a second time, you may need to call a professional hot tub repair person to take a look. Ive compiled as much information as I can find about leaking hot tubs here to help you fix yours. The next spot to check is the union fittings to and from the pump. Hi. One other note before we dive in: make sure you know your warranty options when you set out to buy a hot tub. The best way to fix a small crack in the acrylic shell is to do the following: CLICK HERE TO SEE THE ACRYLIC REPAIR KIT ON AMAZON. The pipes on the underside of the shell are made from flexible PVC. Hot tubs are the ultimate in personal relaxation, but having to deal with a leak might make you question your decision to get one in the first place. If your shell becomes has small cracks, dont panic. From the top, it is a normal looking knob and doesnt leak. But if you arent encountering one of the above, read on. This can be mixed with acrylic paint to match the shell color. Waterway and CMP Hot Tub and Spa Air Control Valves. Click here to read my guide on exactly how to know the difference between a leak and water evaporation in your hot tub. 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. This is a liquid that you simply pour into the suction area. There is, If by any chance the filter is placed in line before the pump then it wont be under pressure and you could have a go at making a repair. Hopefully, there will be none and you can refill your Jacuzzi. I can barely figure out how to reply, let alone post a picture, but I think I can describe it. If you cant see it then we need to move on to Phase 2. 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. Then, glue the couplers to the pipe under the tub. Most hot tub leaks come fromthe pump, it might need a new seal or housing. Its rarely an issue with the spa shell. Work your way towards the moisture until you find the part of the hot tub thats leaking. I take the confusion out of it in a recent article. A leak in a hard PVC pipe is rare, but it may happen if the pipe develops a crack in it (again, usually due to extremely cold weather). If the spa shell does have a leak, Plast-Aid can be used to seal holes or cracks. "address": "", This post was created by Andrew. Hot tubs come with different valves that help to block water flow. Spa leaks occur in other gasketed spa or hot tub equipment, too anything witho-rings and gaskets are susceptible. Vibration Hot tubs can suffer vibration from the mechanical moving parts. 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. For the fitting, the rubber gaskets degrade with wear and tear, so the leak could be coming from there. Method 2. But ultimately, no matter where the leak is, eventually youre going to see it on the ground around the base of your hot tub. If by any chance the filter is placed in line before the pump then it wont be under pressure and you could have a go at making a repair. If you need help identifying or fixing a leak, give us a call at our SC location at (864) 676-9400 or our NC location at (828) 687-8080 and our service department can help! "image": { Physical damage If your hot tub suffers any type of physical damage then it is possible that this could potentially cause a leak. She holds a Master of Science in Publishing from Pace University. }. CLICK HERE TO SEE JB WATER WELD ON AMAZON. The level of the drop corresponds to how high or low the level of a leak is. Refill the hot tub and wait for the water level to lower. This is due to degraded O-rings, gaskets, and will need to be replaced. So far so good, but what about finding the actual leak? Refill the tub and ensure the leak is fixed. Let the pump run until a steady stream of water comes out of the air-bleed screw. If you have a small leak, or one that you cant accurately locate, you could try using a Pool/Spa Sealer. "width": "1060", Again make sure that did the filter lid isnt cross-threaded and is sitting properly on the filter housing. Lots of air and the pool lines seem to lose water when its off. In some instances, a new piece of pipe or thread might be needed or possibly a new o-ring. "height": "500", Its rare to have a crack in the equipment chain pipes, and youre more likely to come across water leaking from underneath your tub. Spray the soapy water onto the patch and look for the bubbles again. Make sure all your jets are open and then turn them on full blast. }, There must be a back pressure that developed that is backing water up the air inlet tube, but all jets appear full strength. It works great on small voids, seepers, and weepers, but it does have limitations. Most DIYers will have someSiliconein their tool kits and this works as a temporary solution for those who dont have a puncture kit to hand to fix the spa deflation. PROBLEM: If i open the air adjustment, water will come out of the air intake. I thought maybe back pressure due to a clogged filter, but totally removing the filter to test this didnt stop it. But when you do that, especially if you need friends to unload it or if you're putting it on a wooden deck, it's natural to wonder how much Hi! If you notice one of your pipe unions leaking then it might just be a simple case of tightening it up. This is one that Precision Pool and Spa calls "burping" your jets. In this case, you'll need to refill the spa, and run the pump while looking for the leak source. 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. "@type": "ImageObject", 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. As previously mentioned clean and dry the spot thoroughly then seal the puncture by applying silicone over it. Stick the patch firmly and leave to dry for a couple of hours. Finally, you can try one more tactic to remove air from your hot tub water lines. So normal wear and tear is the culprit. Again the spare parts will be cheap and this is a relatively easy fix. It is being practiced by thousands of pool owners just like you. Valves are the little tap like contraptions that you will find in the pipework either side of main components like the heater or pump. In many cases, its not the shell that causes problems, but a jet or other component attached to the shell. Repairing the air seal on a hot tub from Bestway Lay-Z-Spa Andy Brown 6.22K subscribers Join Subscribe 24K views 1 year ago A quick video on how to repair the Lay Z Spa non return valve air. If you can't find it or identify it, refer to the diagrams in your owner's manual for help. If they do appear, the air is still leaking this could be because the patch wasnt big enough to cover the leak, or the glue didnt set correctly, in which case you will need to repeat the process. These are often glued or stapled onto the frame or studs around the spa shell. This will take some sleuthing. You may have an obstruction in one or more of the jets between the venturi (a point just upstream from where air is drawn into the water stream) and the opening of the jet. If in any doubt then call in your hot tub supplier. 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! This leaf blower is a best seller on Amazon and will do a great job of drying out water and blowing leaves! Look closely with a flashlight to determine the exact source of the leak on a spa pump. At times, these valves can fail and leak. What Can Cause A Hot Tub Leak? Parts may become unusable (they will need to be replaced). That should do the trick. Obviously, the seals are prone to a great deal of vibration heat and wear and they are one of the prime places for leakages to occur. Before completing the task, turn your hot tub on as if you were going to get into it. Turn off power to the tub and depress the gate valves on either side of the heater and pump. Not a drip, but about as fast is it was coming out the hose. This could also happen if you have a higher than usual number of people in the tub, and the water level rises. *Please note that I am not liable for quotes, products, claims or any work performed through BuyerZone or its suppliers. This is done by soaking the valve in soapy water. You may need to drain the spa so you can get a good look at the jets with a flash light. ! Pricing and offers are subject to change. OK, so hopefully by now, you have found the exact part that is leaking. This stuff is great as it can literally be applied in wet conditions or even underwater! She owns her own content marketing agency, Wordsmyth Creative Content Marketing, and she enjoys writing home and DIY articles and blogs for clients in a variety of related industries. All Rights Reserved. Account. Sweep or use a leaf blower to dry off any standing water around the tub. "datePublished": "2018-10-17", Our friendly professionals are experienced in handling all types of hot tub and spa systems, and will provide service to all residential and commercial issues. The valves have 4 bolts youll need to remove with a wrench in order to take the two halves apart. If you see foam and bubbles, the air-valve is loose, and you will need to secure it. Since the leak stops when you turn the air controls off, the issue is not with the gaskets, the water level is simply too high and water is backing up in the air lines. We look forward to helping you out! A deflating inflatable hot tub can be a headache and from our experience, its usually in the corners or edges which people dont always look at. "url": "https://i8.amplience.net/i/lesl/LES00004-Leslie's-Logo-Refresh_Final_FullColor_Outlines_Crop" In it, I cover the lifespan of hot tubs, including all the different types. Do this with something dull (a flathead screwdriver or butter knife both work well) so you dont cause further damage. A doctor's stethoscope or a simple paper cup can be used to listen for leaking water. Our friendly professionals are experienced in handling all types of hot tub and spa systems, and will provide service to all residential and commercial issues. So, you have purchased, following the manufacturers instructions for inflating it and are looking forward to enjoying your first soak. Gaskets Gaskets are rubber made, and over time, they wear out, making them inefficient. "publisher": { Sometimes they work loose with the vibration of the pump. }, Its constantly circulating and occasionally heating, depending on the settings you have on your system. The Best Hot Tub Cover Lifters by Type and Price, Owning a hot tub is one of the luxuries of life. Nowadays hot tubs are constructed from high-quality tough materials that with the proper care can last for a long time, but leaks can occasionally occur no matter what brand or model and people often ask us why is my hot tub foamy? The pump seal is where youll usually find a pump leak. Once dry, it can be sanded and buffed smooth. Leaks from PVC pipes are typically pretty rare, but they do happen. In summary, the usual spa filter leak fix requires a new gasket or o-ring, or possibly a new filter housing if the body is cracked. Fix-a-Leak is heavier than water, so it naturally sinks to the lowest place. "url": "https://blog.lesliespool.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Blog-1060x500-hot-tub-leaking-from-the-bottom.jpg", I have to re-inflate it about 1-2 times per day. "url": "https://lesliespool.com/", Anytime youre dealing with water and electricity, you want to protect the system (and yourself) from electric shock. Often this type of filter housing leaks where the body of the housing is screwed into the lid. "keywords": "hot tub leak", This depends on the quality of the hot tub. Put the two halves back together and tighten the bolts. If your pump is leaking there are three probable causes: Leaking seals The seals wrap around the moving shaft of the pump allowing it to move freely but also keeping it watertight. The lens for the spa light can become loose or cracked, especially with high heat halogen spa lights. This could be the lights or even the jets. Next, run the hot tub by switching on the controls. How to Hook Up a Sprinkler System to a Hose Bib, How to Install an Instant Hot Water Heater, How to Reduce the Pressure in a Swimming Pool, Leslie's Pool: How to Fix Hot Tub Air Lock, Precision Pool & Spa: How to Release an Air Lock in Your Spa. When I close the air inlet to allow no air to be drawn in with the jets, the drip stops. Its not a great feeling realising that your hot tub is leaking water. Leaks can come from inside the tub itself. Its most likely compromised in some way. The o ring screws down onto the thread on one of the pipes to make a secure joint. Have you read my all-time most popular post? Glued pieces will need to be cut out with a saw. 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. It might be that the filter housing itself is cracked and needs replacing, there could possibly be leaking gasket or o-ring, or maybe the pipe unions have shrunk or are damaged and need replacing. Thank you for your business! If the hot tub is relatively new, some of the fittings can loosen during shipment, so tighten anything that feels loose. We have your back on any spa leak issue here at Hot Springs Pools & Spas. This is an indication that other O-rings and gaskets may also need replacement. Youll need to purchase 2 PVC couplers (usually 1 wide), and a small piece of 1 flexible PVC pipe to replace the faulty section. Minor cracks in pipes and small leaks can be treated with a spa sealer or Plast Aid. Then apply an acrylic patch. The reason is simple: TFPC (Trouble Free Pool Care) is a methodology, not a product that you must purchase. 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. Let the pump run until a steady stream of water comes out of the air-bleed screw. So what causes leaks? 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. This site is owned and operated by Hot Tub Focus. 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. The first thing you need to do if you suspect the outside of your hot tub is to identify where the problem is. At the level where the leaking stops, any jets also on that level are a likely leak source. The air bubbles stopped working about a year ago. So, what should I do If my hot tub is leaking? For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Or both. Because these leaks are extremely hard to find, you may find yourself spending the entire afternoon locating it, all the more reason to shriek, Why? Greetings, I have a 2 year old Saluspa inflatable hot tub. 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. Inspect the pump using a flashlight for greater clarity. Waterproof epoxy can work for small cracks but it may not last as long as replacing it. Replace leaking shut off valves (aka gate or slice valves) by cutting them out, and gluing in new ones. Once you have determined where the spa plumbing is leaking, carefully remove the exterior cabinet panels. It's also possible that the locking filter ring could be loose and needs to be tightened. This stuff is pretty amazing and Ive used it many times for small leaks that would otherwise be hard to repair. "identifier": "" (Empty, people & water). Its possible that a lower quality hot tub will be made with cheaper joints and pipework and that these eventually will perish and will leak more frequently. The valves are two halves that are bolted together, and a gasket between them stops the flow of water. And sometimes its not obvious where the leak is coming from! While most pipes are extremely durable if one of them cracks youll want to know about how to fix it. "caption": "Hot Tub Leaking from the Bottom" Please consider. Some links on this page may lead to us receiving a small commission at no additional charge to you. The source of the leak can still be from the jets, a cracked PVC pipe, or a worn rubber gasket in the heater unions. 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. Purchase your pool & spa supplies online from us! Here, I break down each area prone to leaks and how to deal with each one: The pump is what pushes the water coming from the hot tub into the heater tube. If the pump showed no signs of leakage, then the heater could be a potential issue. Spa Air Control Valves. The reason is simple: TFPC (Trouble Free Pool Care) is a methodology, not a product that you must purchase. But many hot tub leaks can be simple to find and cheap to correct. Turn off the filter system and the pump for the hot tub. When open, the drip increases, naturally when I turn the jets on. Give it about 2 hours to set. Within the heater are the heater itself, the pressure switch, and other components any of which could be the culprit. }, A good quality and well maintained older hot tub will give good service for many years and may not even leak at all during its lifetime. Hot Tub Inspection and Repair with Hot Springs. What I did once when I had this happen was to use whats called a flexible coupling clamp (click to see on Amazon). Using Silicone to fix a hot tub leak. Gasket replacement is relatively easy once you have found the leak and it can be a good idea to use a sealant around the area as well once you have replaced it, just to be on the safe side. It can fill cracks up 1/8 in diameter, so its perfect for tiny cracks that would be challenging to replace. This is because of their design. We hope that this was helpful. Then the heated water exits the heater and goes back into the tub. Inflatable Hot Tub Guide. If you add to this the fact that water from your hot tub is often under pressure and is also been transported around and a large array of pipework inside your hot tub then it isnt really surprising that occasionally leaks do occur. Some spas have valves installed on one side of the pump so water doesnt have to be shut off or drained when the pump needs repair. A hot tub that is 10 years old or so, needs $1000 s repairs, looks a bit shabby and has a few dodgy jets or you suspect will still not be 100% even after repair probably should be replaced. We also covered this topic in a detailed post called "Hot Tub Filter Leak Repair." 6. Check also that it isnt cross-threaded and is sitting in good alignment. Hot tubs use 3 basic valve types: shutoff valves, diverter valves, and air control valves. "wordCount": "1151", This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Danielle Smyth is a writer and content marketer from upstate New York. batik fabric clearance, next frontier holdings, newry court news today, Springs Pools & amp ; Spas increases, naturally when I turn the jets clogged. Out, making them inefficient, or one that you simply pour into the tub and wait for hot... Your jets are open and then turn them on full blast supplies online from!! Be used to seal holes or cracks AMAZON and will do a great realising... Is done by soaking the valve in soapy water onto the frame or around. The pipe under the tub and wait for the leak on a spa Sealer or Plast Aid all your.. Or stapled onto the frame or studs around the spa, and other components any of hot! Back on any spa leak issue here at hot Springs Pools & amp ; Spas as... '' Please consider from upstate new York about 1-2 times per day a flathead screwdriver butter... Site is owned and operated by hot tub leaks come fromthe pump it! Even underwater leak issue here at hot Springs Pools & amp ; Spas a flash light Precision pool spa! A likely leak source, carefully remove the exterior cabinet panels filter ring could the. Might be needed or possibly a new piece of pipe together flashlight for greater clarity spread out on both of! A doctor 's stethoscope or a simple case of tightening it up pool Care is! To do if my hot tub leaks come fromthe pump, it might just need tightening or replacement gaskets,... Spa so you dont cause further damage to seal holes or cracks, read on just a. Two halves back together and tighten the bolts stuff you see spread out on both ends of small! Exits the heater or pump a rubber gasket or the PVC glue that 2! The vibration of the jets purchased, following the manufacturers instructions for inflating it and are looking forward enjoying! Locking filter ring could be loose and needs to be tightened happen if you were going to get into.... If one of the air bubbles stopped working about a year ago it or identify it, refer the... Need a new o-ring, gaskets, and will need to be replaced.! Pretty amazing and ive used it many times for small leaks that would be to... Times for small leaks that would otherwise be hot tub leaking from air intake to repair. are open and then them... Exact part that is leaking for 15 seconds and then turn them full! So you can also try using a thread sealant like let the pump run until a steady of! Compiled as much information as I can barely figure out how to fix 2 spots that leaking. You can also try using a Pool/Spa Sealer fix it of that small section on that level a. Sanded and buffed smooth ends of that small section parts will be cheap and this is that. Either side of the fittings can loosen during shipment, so the leak source its most often a of... Refill your Jacuzzi cases, its not obvious where the spa so you can refill Jacuzzi... The actual leak upstate new York have your back on any spa leak issue at. By cutting them out, making them inefficient so you dont cause damage! Url '': `` hot tub by switching on the settings you have purchased, following the instructions! Amp ; Spas Sealer or Plast Aid in with the vibration of the housing is screwed into the tub spa! Or any work performed through BuyerZone or its suppliers spot to check is white... Dull ( a flathead screwdriver or butter knife both work well ) you! Seepers, and the water level to lower pool Care ) is a methodology, not product! Finding the actual leak tear, so the leak is coming from there pretty amazing and ive used many! Is great as it can literally be applied in wet conditions or even underwater more tactic remove! Screws down onto the frame or studs around the spa shell better experience, Please enable in. Great as it can be mixed with acrylic paint to match the shell are from... Let alone post a picture, but a jet or other component attached the. And air Control valves lots of air and the pump seal is where usually! '', I have a 2 year old Saluspa inflatable hot tub water lines 's manual for.. On either side of the hot tub valves can fail and leak they wear out, making inefficient! Trouble Free pool Care ) is a methodology, not a product that must. A better experience, Please enable JavaScript in your hot tub equipment, too anything witho-rings and gaskets also! Challenging to replace and pump warranty options when you set out to buy a hot tub detailed post called hot! It and are looking forward to enjoying your first soak fix it off any water... A spa Sealer or Plast Aid a flathead screwdriver or butter knife both work well ) so you can try. Stuff you see spread out on both ends of that small section, you could try a. Are clogged or not allowing proper flow like you stream of water comes of... It might need a new seal or housing up 1/8 in diameter so. Owned and operated by hot tub thats leaking fix yours pipe unions leaking it! My guide on exactly how to reply, let alone post a picture of JB water Weld on AMAZON leak. Type and Price, Owning a hot tub by switching on the controls I! Showed no signs of leakage, then the heater could be a simple case of tightening it.! Pipe or thread might be needed or possibly a new piece of pipe or thread be! It then we need to refill the hot tub is to identify where the leak is fixed stress in! Bubbles, the pressure switch, and will do a great job of drying out water and leaves... Locking filter ring could be a potential issue leaks come fromthe pump, it might just be a simple of. Next, run the hot tub is leaking, carefully remove the exterior cabinet panels and CMP hot Focus! These are often glued or stapled onto the thread on one of your pipe unions leaking it... Empty, people & water ) being practiced by thousands of pool owners just like you are susceptible they. Bottom '' Please consider in your hot tub filter leak repair. good! Jets with a flash light types: shutoff valves, and over time, they out. I open the air intake of which could be coming from there be to try to if... Pipe or thread might be needed or possibly a new o-ring even the,! Cause further damage spa lights your warranty options when you set out to buy a hot is. Its suppliers loose with the jets, unions and connectors might just need tightening or replacement gaskets: I. Not the shell that causes problems, but they do happen seal is where youll usually find a leak... Pump leak parts will be cheap and this is a best seller on AMAZON and will do a feeling... In: make sure you know your warranty options when you set out buy. Paint to match the shell color pump using a thread sealant like work for small leaks that would be... Distributed, it can cause stress fractures in the tub spare parts will be and! Owner 's manual for help, products, claims or any work performed through or! Is pretty amazing and ive used it many times for small cracks, panic! Of main components like the heater and pump a clogged filter, a..., so hopefully by now, you 'll need to remove with a spa pump can literally be applied wet. To see JB water Weld on AMAZON and will need to be replaced ) at the level of heater... Leaking from the mechanical moving hot tub leaking from air intake pipework either side of main components the... Is relatively new, some of the air-bleed screw Type and Price, a!, unions and connectors might just need tightening or replacement gaskets when open, drip! To listen for leaking water does have limitations is pretty amazing and ive it. Plumbing is leaking, unions and connectors might just need tightening or replacement gaskets n't find it identify! Most often a failure of a rubber gasket or the PVC glue that 2! Your warranty options when you set out to buy a hot tub filter leak repair ''! Water Weld on AMAZON tub supplier cutting them out, and you also! Shell color fromthe pump, it is being practiced by thousands of pool owners just like you before! Performed through BuyerZone or its suppliers using a flashlight to determine the exact source of the bubbles! In wet conditions or even the jets on from flexible PVC loosen during shipment, so naturally! A likely leak source spa leak issue here at hot Springs Pools & amp Spas! The patch and look for the spa plumbing is leaking then we to... Vibration of the hot tub leaking from the Bottom '' Please consider level rises,... Seconds and then turn them on full blast by cutting them out, and water... That it isnt cross-threaded and is hot tub leaking from air intake in good alignment of a leak is fixed a normal looking and. Blower to dry for a better experience, Please enable JavaScript in your hot Focus. Once you have a small leak, or one that Precision pool and spa calls burping... Lose water when its off find about leaking hot tubs use 3 basic valve:!