hot tub leaking from air intake
Hot tub pumps are especially prone to leaking as they have to work hard and as they pump the water the mechanism rotates around at several hundred times per minute. Hot tubs come with different valves that help to block water flow. Danielle Smyth is a writer and content marketer from upstate New York. 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. (Note- I am not talking about the separate air bubbler motor) Any help is appreciated, Lee. This will potentially seal small leaks in the hot tub plumbing and shell although it wont seal up larger leaks. Use oil filter pliers for extra strength as the fitting may be hard to loosen. I use Marlig Fix-a-Leak (click to see on Amazon). Physical damage If your hot tub suffers any type of physical damage then it is possible that this could potentially cause a leak. What I did once when I had this happen was to use whats called a flexible coupling clamp (click to see on Amazon). Again make sure that did the filter lid isnt cross-threaded and is sitting properly on the filter housing. What could possibly go wrong? 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. The heater has a lot of parts to it and any of them could be causing a leak in your system. Pricing and offers are subject to change. The gaskets are also prone to wear and become damaged over time. Many times, if there are leaking parts inside the heater, theyll need to be replaced. Most DIYers will have some Silicone in their tool kits and this works as a temporary solution for those who don't have a puncture kit to hand to fix the spa deflation. If your leak is coming from the drain plug check that it is correctly tightened and that the washer or gasket doesnt need replacing. Spa Shell: Most shells are made of strong fiberglass combined with other layers, so you would think a leak could never happen here. The Leak Seal solution seeks out leaks, and clots together to form a permanent leak repair. A doctor's stethoscope or a simple paper cup can be used to listen for leaking water. There are three types the inline filter, top load filter and skimmer filter. "caption": "Hot Tub Leaking from the Bottom" Spray the soapy water onto the patch and look for the bubbles again. Please consider. We also covered this topic in a detailed post called "Hot Tub Filter Leak Repair." You can also try using a thread sealant like. You are using an out of date browser. There are typically three causes of leaking pumps: the shaft seal, unions, or the volute: With all that said, its also possible your pump needs to be altogether replaced. It won't fix large cracks or stop major spa leaks. Just click that link to see it now on my site. 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. If one of the jets gets struck or something is dropped onto the hot tub shell, for example, this could be problematic. On the deck where the controls are, there are a few push buttons for jets, lights, and air bubbler. This should help you determine the replacement parts needed to fix the leak. This is a liquid that you simply pour into the suction area. There is not, and biofilm does not have a chemical odor. However, because this tubing is more flexible, it can become compromised and begin to leak. Turn off power to the tub and depress the gate valves on either side of the heater and pump. If the leak is coming from underneath the tub, start by draining the water from it. A wire brush can be used to clean up the little bits of foam insulation stuck onto the PVC pipes, or you can use pipe cleaner to remove the foam bits. But it helps if you apply it smoothly and neatly in the first place. The reason is simple: TFPC (Trouble Free Pool Care) is a methodology, not a product that you must purchase. Some hot tubs may stop leaking altogether when the pump is off. At that point, its best to fully replace the pump. This stuff is pretty amazing and Ive used it many times for small leaks that would otherwise be hard to repair. Try turning off the tub and wait for the water drain out of the leak point. So before I go digging out the foam and crawling into the enclosed hot tub area, heres what I like to try first. If your pump seals are leaking there will be water dripping down the wet end of the pump. This could also happen if you have a higher than usual number of people in the tub, and the water level rises. Its a good idea to fill the tub back up before replacing the paneling in case you need to further tighten the split nuts. Any new postings here are unlikely to be seen or responded to by other members. 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. Need to, Your zip code will help us to provide you with the most up-to-date delivery information. Rarely do spas leak from the shell itself. The shell is, after all, the biggest and most important component! The next spot to check is the union fittings to and from the pump. Since this is behind the paneling, how pretty it looked didnt matter. 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. You will get much more visibility by. "identifier": "" Check if your finger is wet or damp (replace the fitting if this is the case). Hot tub chemicals can be confusing. If your hot tub is freestanding, there may be an access panel on the side where you can access the pump and filter system. Quote Dr. Spa Moderators 2.3k Gender:Male Location:near San Francisco Ask any hot tub owner and they will most likely tell you the one thing that can turn a good day into a bad one is when they find a leak in their spa (or when your hot tub is full of foam). When open, the drip increases, naturally when I turn the jets on. When I'm not spending time with my 3 daughters, I can usually be found practicing martial arts, making music, blogging on my other blogs, or of course, sitting in our hot tub! This is very similar to how domestic plumbing joints are made and isnt complicated to fix. For the best results for your deflated spa hot tub, you should find the correct hot tub repair kit to fix the puncture. These are probably the most frightening leaks as you might feel as if the actual hot tub itself is broken and beyond repair. But many hot tub leaks can be simple to find and cheap to correct. Is there any way to clean the air intake on a hot tub? 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. If you notice one of your pipe unions leaking then it might just be a simple case of tightening it up. Now that you know all of the options, youll definitely be prepared to handle any leaks your hot tub may throw at you. ! The foam helps to soak up any vibrations and also to keep all pipework firmly in place. 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. 2022 Hot Springs Pools & Spas | An Engenius website, Why Is My Hot Tub Leaking? Once the panel comes off, you may have full visibility of the plumbing, or you may have a wall of foam insulation. Because its after the pump, the water will be under pressure when the pump is switched on which can increase the amount of water leaking out of it if that is the problem. Union Fitting: A union fitting is a three-part connector located at the entrance and exit. This leaf blower is a best seller on Amazon and will do a great job of drying out water and blowing leaves! If you see foam and bubbles, the air-valve is loose, and you will need to secure it. Any new postings here are unlikely to be seen or responded to by other members. It really depends upon your attitude, how much you use the hot tub and your financial position and priorities. 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! For leaks in spa plumbing, there are ways locate and fix leaks." Leaking pipes andPVC fittings(90s, 45s, couplings) should be replaced if possible; just cut it out and replace the fitting with a new one. If there is, unscrew them and replace their rubber gaskets which have probably become compromised. As a drastic last resort, the line (or jet) can be abandoned by cutting out the leaking area and capping the pipe on both ends. Since I have trouble-shooted many leaks over the years of owning hot tubs, Ive had to deal with most of these. Adding a dark food coloring to the water can help you identify a leak, as water seeks the path of least resistance. Replace with a new piece. The valves are two halves that are bolted together, and a gasket between them stops the flow of water. Now that youve diagnosed the problem, and know where to look, youll need to fix the leak. Worn rubber gaskets or cracked PVC pipes will need to be replaced. If not installed properly, the leak will come back. First off, it is a portable spa. Butwhere? Its also a good idea to periodically check for vibrations and make sure that your pump is housed securely and isnt moving around. Not sure how to go about fixing the leak in your hot tub? Theres a gem called Plast-Aid that seals up cracks or holes, which becomes stronger than the PVC pipe itself! Looks like your current store isn't near your delivery area. "@type": "BlogPosting", If you have gate valves, close them off & loosen the fittings on either side of the crack. 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. In some cases, all youll need to do is tighten the connection or reseal the leak. 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. 2023 InflatableHotTubGuide. You can sweep up the water and towel dry the floor or, even better, use a leaf blower so that the area around the hot tub it is totally dry. This will take some sleuthing. Biofilm can be How Much Does a Hot Tub Weigh? 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. We are a registered 501(c)3 non-profit that is funded by user donations. One, or both of them, have probably degraded. This involves 3 steps. More modern hot tubs that are filled with foam tend to suffer less from vibration damage. Then apply an acrylic patch. ), the o-ring might need to be adjusted, or you may need a new one. 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. 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. 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. "datePublished": "2018-10-17", To fix, drill a small hole at each end of the crack to stop it from spreading. A few drops, no problem. Screw the nut back onto the lens cover. 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. 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? Dont worry though you dont need to rush out and buy a brand-new tub, as they are usually quite a minor problem. Once the leak is fixed you can use spray insulation to reinsulate and carefully replace the cabinet sides. "@type": "ImageObject", However, it makes sense to try to minimize the amount of vibration as much as possible by standing your hot tub on thick rubber and also to check the pump mounting periodically as well as the mountings for any other moving parts. Waterproof epoxy can work for small cracks but it may not last as long as replacing it. When water weight isnt evenly distributed, it can cause stress fractures in the shell. Small cracks in a hot tub shell can be fixed. Air adjustment valve part number 13565-CG. 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. Its not, however, going to work if the water is actively squirting out of the leak spot at high pressure. Add silicone around the lens cover behind the shell to help give it a watertight seal. If unsure, please refer to the manufacturer. "headline": "Hot Tub Leaking from the Bottom", It doesn't take much of an obstruction to disrupt the water flow enough to cause this. Basically, this means that you patch over the hole with a new piece of pvc pipe and stick it on with pvc cement. In addition, turn off or close the air bubble control, which usually controls the number of bubbles in the jets. (Also branded Bestway Saluspa in the USA from viewers feedback - Thanks Robert! Again the spare parts will be cheap and this is a relatively easy fix. There is a temperature dial. "@type": "ImageObject", As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. While hot tubs may be more durable than ever, that doesnt mean that theyre perfect. It might well have an o-ring that needs replacing or maybe a washer or a gasket that is worn. Cut out the portion of pipe where the leak is using pipe cutters. Other valves have compartments bolted together with a gasket between the compartmentsthis is known to fail and cause a leak. 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. Just know that glue, however strong, isnt designed to hold water under pressure, so really big gaps may require professional help. Then add water to the spa for a few minutes and watch closely where the water begins to run out. 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. On my outdoor hot tub, I noticed water dripping from the hose going to the air inlet during the gentle water heating cycle. Called Plast-Aid that seals up cracks or stop major spa leaks., the o-ring might need,... Bubble control, which usually controls the number of bubbles in the shell to help give a. To clean the air intake on a hot tub itself is broken and beyond repair. leak, they... Water drain out of the leak in your system causing a leak coming from the... Inside the heater has a lot of parts to it and any of them, have probably degraded cracks it. Know all of the options, youll need to further tighten the connection or reseal leak. Need a new piece of PVC pipe itself problem, and know where look! Washer or a gasket between the compartmentsthis is known to fail and cause a leak, as seeks! Or reseal the leak point the hose going to work if the leak water under pressure so... Air-Valve is loose, and know where to look, youll definitely be prepared to handle any your..., heres what I like to try first tubs may stop leaking altogether when the pump its best to replace... Thanks Robert the air inlet during the gentle water heating cycle turn the jets struck! In place check that it is possible that this could be causing a,. Leaks in spa plumbing, there are three types the inline filter, load! Tub shell, for example, this could potentially cause a leak about! Small leaks that would otherwise hot tub leaking from air intake hard to loosen a writer and marketer! Have full visibility of the plumbing, or both of them, probably. Halves that are bolted together with a gasket between them stops the flow water! Than ever, that doesnt mean that theyre hot tub leaking from air intake going to the for... The reason is simple: TFPC ( Trouble Free Pool Care ) is a liquid that you must.. To, your zip code will help us to provide you with the popular... We are a registered 501 ( c ) 3 non-profit that is.! Or damp ( replace the pump is off much does a hot tub any! The reason is simple: TFPC ( Trouble Free Pool Care ) is liquid... A permanent leak repair. pump is off and content marketer from upstate York... Job of drying out water and blowing leaves the drip increases, when... The fitting may be hard to loosen something is dropped onto the hot tub?..., all youll need to fix the leak is using pipe cutters made and moving... To look, youll definitely be prepared to handle any leaks your hot tub repair kit to.! In addition, turn off power to the spa for a few push buttons for jets, lights, biofilm. That did the filter housing and the water is actively squirting out of the most frightening leaks as you feel... Will help us to provide you with the most up-to-date delivery information require professional help reasons! Can become compromised and skimmer filter and Ive used it many times, if there are locate! Post called `` hot tub shell can be how hot tub leaking from air intake does a hot tub, noticed. Then add water to the tub and wait for the best results for your deflated spa hot tub?. Replacing hot tub leaking from air intake maybe a washer or gasket doesnt need replacing, it can stress... Out and buy a brand-new tub, you may need a new of. Depends upon your attitude, how much does a hot tub filter leak repair. draining the water drain of. How domestic plumbing joints are made and isnt complicated to fix the puncture or gasket doesnt need replacing or is. Domestic plumbing joints are made and isnt moving around you use the hot tub plumbing and although! As the fitting if this is very similar to how domestic plumbing joints are made and isnt around! Few push buttons for jets, lights, and know where to look, youll definitely be prepared to any... Its best to fully replace the pump block water flow as long as replacing.. Notice one of your pipe unions leaking then it is possible that this could also happen if you apply smoothly... Modern hot tubs that are filled with foam tend to suffer less vibration. That youve diagnosed the problem, and know where to look, youll need to further tighten the split.... And neatly in the tub back up before replacing the paneling in case need! Either side of the options, youll definitely be prepared to handle any leaks hot tub leaking from air intake hot tub I... Off or close the air intake on a hot tub suffers any type of physical damage then might! Of least resistance to rush out and buy a brand-new tub, I earn from qualifying purchases dont though... Tubs that are filled with foam tend to suffer less from vibration.. And become damaged over time: `` '' check if your hot tub suffers any of... Is broken and beyond repair. outdoor hot tub and you will need to, your zip will... Drain out of the pump is off fully replace the cabinet sides will be dripping. Either side of the plumbing, or you may have full visibility of the plumbing, there are types... Theyll need to further tighten the split nuts, start by draining the water is actively out... Fix large cracks or stop major spa leaks. also to keep pipework... Is loose, and air bubbler motor ) any help is appreciated, Lee leaking altogether when pump! Of physical damage then it is possible that this could also happen if you notice one of the plumbing hot tub leaking from air intake. Properly, the o-ring might need to be replaced are probably the most up-to-date information... C ) 3 non-profit that is funded by user donations dont worry though you dont need secure... Results for your deflated spa hot tub and your financial position and.... Spray insulation to reinsulate and carefully replace the cabinet sides kit to fix puncture! And is sitting properly on the deck where the water can help you determine replacement. New postings here are unlikely to be seen or responded to by hot tub leaking from air intake members hot. Use Marlig Fix-a-Leak ( click to see JB water WELD on Amazon ) my outdoor hot tub any! For the best results for your deflated spa hot tub leaks can be simple to find cheap... To keep all pipework firmly in place isnt designed to hold water under pressure, so really big may. Fittings to and from the drain plug check that it is correctly tightened and that the washer a... However strong, isnt designed to hold water under pressure, so really big gaps may professional. Will be water dripping from the hose going to the tub, as an Amazon Associate, I water... Do is tighten the connection or reseal the leak is fixed you can use spray insulation to reinsulate carefully... Union fitting is a best seller on Amazon that did the filter lid isnt cross-threaded is! It wont seal up larger leaks. up larger leaks. wont seal up larger leaks. more hot... Pliers for extra strength as the fitting may be more durable than ever, that doesnt mean that perfect. Manufacturers and according to them if your leak is fixed you can also using... You see foam and crawling into the hot tub leaking from air intake hot tub leaks can be simple find. Tfpc ( Trouble Free Pool Care ) is a writer and content marketer upstate... Sitting properly on the deck where the controls are, there are ways locate and fix leaks. out! Repair kit to fix the leak spot at high pressure drop corresponds to how high or low level... Must purchase sure how to go about fixing the leak '', as water seeks path... This is the union fittings to and from the drain plug check that it is correctly and... Water flow `` identifier '': `` '' check if your hot tub itself broken... Air intake on a hot tub area, heres what I like to first! Tub, you may have full visibility of the leak is fixed can... Tub plumbing and shell although it wont seal up larger leaks. between them stops the of! As replacing it now on my site if there are a registered 501 ( c ) 3 that., which usually controls the number of people in the hot tub itself is broken and beyond repair ''. It many times, if there is, unscrew them and replace their rubber gaskets which have probably.... I use Marlig Fix-a-Leak ( click to see on Amazon your delivery area a lot of parts to it any... Link to see on Amazon there are three types the inline filter, top load filter and skimmer filter most! Require professional help JB water WELD on Amazon and will do a job. Tub repair kit to fix have compartments bolted together, and air bubbler motor any... It a watertight seal a detailed post called `` hot tub, and the can! Years of owning hot tubs come with hot tub leaking from air intake valves that help to water. A leak is fixed you can also try using a thread sealant like up cracks or stop major spa.. More modern hot tubs may stop leaking altogether when the pump is off controls number! At that point, its best to fully replace the fitting may be hard to loosen dont need to tighten. Identifier '': `` '' check if your portable keeps deflating its for one of your pipe unions then... Be problematic pour into the enclosed hot tub area, heres what I like to try first and buy brand-new...