An Unexpected Visitor

Over the weekend, we were surprised with an unexpected visitor… not exactly the kind of visitor I wanted to deal with all weekend – a spa leak! No one likes a leak. Leaks cause stains, slippery surfaces and as it pertains to a hot tub, an unwanted commitment to cleaning up and consistently refilling the spa. However, there is no choice but to deal with it.

Deal With It

Before going crazy trying to find a leak there are a few places to always check. In most cases, a leak can be easily identified and resolved.

1.    Check the heater unions - These unions are usually only hand tightened and may come loose from vibration. Check for water and tighten as needed.

2.     Check the spa pump unions - Again these are typically hand tightened. Check for water and tighten as needed.

3.     Air Control Valves - These valves are knobs found on the flange of the spa that increase the pressure coming out of the jets. If you have turned too many spa jets off, the force of the water will need relief and will try to escape out through these valves. If you find water beneath an ACV, make sure all the spa jets are in the “open” position.

No Luck?

Now its time to check the plumbing, but remember that water has a tendency to “run downhill”. Just because you see water at the front of the spa doesn’t mean thats where the water is coming from. It may be coming from the back of the spa and running to the front. Once you find the starting point, it will be important to find the source. Search the spa plumbing with a flashlight for any water on the plumbing itself. If that does not provide a clear direction, slowly run your hand over and around each spa jet and plumb line until your hand gets wet.

Some leaks are very elusive. If after checking everything else, the leak has not been found, try looking under the spa cover. That’s right, under the spa cover! If after a complete inspection the leak has not been found, call SpaShopper at 866.829.3660! They live for this stuff and I’m sure you’ll be glad you did!