Hot Tub Pump-Replace or Repair?
| January 23, 2013 | Posted by h20articles under Hot Tub Maintenance, Hot Tub Service & Repair |
You know the saying, “it’s what’s on the inside that counts”? We it’s very true when it comes to the inside of a hot tub! A hot tub can look amazing on the outside with all the bells and whistles but if the inside isn’t measuring up, it will be no good to you. The inside part of the hot tub that mainly counts is the pump. Without the hot tub pump, there is no hot tub, just a “tub”.
The hot tub pump is commonly known as the “heart” of the hot tub. The water inside the tub is pulled through the intakes of the spa and pumped through the hot tub heater to create warm, hot water that is then pumped back out through the jets and into your hot tub. So all that hot water in your spa happens because of the hot tub pump. Yes, the heater also plays a big part but without a working pump, water cannot get to the heater itself.
The hot tub pump is generally made up of two main parts: the motor and the wet end, which contains the impeller. The motor basically makes the impeller turn which then helps the water move through the entire system passing the heater and then it is pushed through the jets to create the massage every hot tub lover is looking for.
Like any type of mechanics, the hot tub pump can develop problem issues. Below are only some problem issues but keep in mind that there are numerous amounts of issues that could be wrong besides the ones listed. Most problems are related to just being worn out and older. Some common problems with the hot tub pump are:
- leaks around the pump caused by old or worn out seals
- worn out bearings
- frozen shaft
- clogged up or broken impeller
- old and worn out hot tub pump
- improper voltage for the pump
How do you know if you need a new pump or if your original hot tub pump can be fixed? First of all, if you have a newer hot tub, most likely, the problem can be fixed without replacing the entire hot tub pump. Check the above common problems and if none of them fit, it may be time to call your local hot tub service technician.
If you are needing to replace the entire hot tub pump, keep in mind these important points when choosing which hot tub pump is right for you.
- Horsepower- make sure you have the correct horsepower for your hot tub. If you are not sure than just take the original horsepower from the motor that was originally installed. If your controls and electrical system can accommodate it, you make be able to increase the HP by one only. But it is recommended you stay at the original HP for obvious reasons.
- Voltage- make sure your outlet voltage will correspond with your hot tub pump voltage. Not all hot tubs that are wired for 220V will use a 220V pump. Again, checking the original pump will help you determine which voltage is best for you.
- Pump Speed- this determines the amount of pressure the jets have. The majority of hot tub pumps will have 2 speeds.
- Motor Frame Size- it will either be a 48 or 56 inch frame. The old motor should have the size you need on it.
- Plumbing size- make sure the new hot tub pump you order is the same size as the original pump. There are usually only 3 sizes, 1.5”, 2” or 2.5”
- Center or side discharge pump- take note of the discharge part of the pump. Is it in the center or on the left side? You need to make sure it’s the same as the original hot tub pump.
Once you figure out which hot tub pump you need, take extra care to order the correct one so you don’t have to delay using your hot tub!
Tips on how to install your new hot tub pump can be found on our blog site as well!
As always, happy tubbing!
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