A failed hot tub pump can cost the owner 100’s if not 1000’s of dollars in extra damages. Properly inspecting your pump can reduce the risk of damages. A pump will not last forever and will eventually have to be replaced. Look for signs of wear and tear and be proactive!
A good rule to follow is to inspect your hot tub pump every time you clean your spa filter. You should be checking for water leakage, loud noises and hot pump motors. If you find any of these symptoms then it is time to repair or replace your pump before the pump fails and damages other parts such as the heater.
If you see signs of water leakage then you need to look closely and determine where it is coming from. Check the o-rings and the couplers to insure they are tight and not leaking. If you see water dripping from the pump shaft, then this usually signals a leaky pump bearing. Replace immediately as this will lead to a larger more serious leak. Also look closely at the pump housing for any micro cracks. Vibration of pump motors will quickly cause a small crack to develop into a big crack.
If you hear excessive noise you may find it is coming from the pump’s sealed bearing or the motor. If the spa pump bearing is worn, this means the pump is working harder to overcome the worn bearing. It is also a sign that leaks will follow. Take care of this right away! if the pump is making excessive noise then chance are the motor windings are failing and it is time for a new spa pump.
Poor water flow in your spa is generally not caused by pumps. A pump either works or does not work. however the impeller can become clogged or a something might be lodge inside the pump housing. Remove both ports and physically look inside the pump. Check for obstructions. Try and spin the impeller, it should not turn freely as there should be resistance from the spa motor. If you are experiencing poor flow, I would suggest looking at your filter and suctions as the leading cause.
A spa pump motor does run hot. However, it should not be excessively hot when only running on circulating mode. If you touch the motor and find it nearly burns your hand then this is a sign of something wrong internally. You are wasting energy as a significant portion of power is being utilized as heat instead of driving the pump. If a motor fails, it is generally advisable to replace the entire pump as it is usually the same price.
If your hot tub pump has a hard time to initially start it may mean one of two things. First, check that nothing is stuck in the pump housing. Ensure there is no ice from a winter freeze. If all looks good then you starting capacitor in the motor is probably shot. Time to replace the pump or take it to your local spa service station (may cost more to fix than buy new).
If you decide to replace your hot tub pump, look closely at a few things to get a proper match. Choose the same port size, 1 1/2″ or 2″. Make sure the power is the same, 120 VAC or 230 VAC. Is your pump a one speed or two speed pump? Finally, match the amp rating of your pump closely to the amps of another pump. Never, never match HP ratings listed on a pump as they are never accurate and often overstated!
When looking for new pumps consider quality. Remember your old pump failed so try and buy a pump that will last even longer. All manufacturer’s make replacement pumps so don’t feel you need to replace your spa pump with the same brand name. Paying a slight premium can be a great investment versus the cost of a failure! Premium pumps will last longer, run quieter and consume less power.
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