Swim Spa Repair: How to DIY and When Not To

Does your spa have a problem? Want to know if you can do the swim spa repair yourself? 

We know your swimming routine needs to carry on. You might even have a great part planned for the weekend. You don’t want to be worried over your endless pool and whether it’s going to cost you thousands of dollars to fix.

In this guide, we’ll show you a few key things to help you with repairs:

• Identify signs your swim spa needs a fix
• Master DIY repairs with easy steps
• Know when it’s time to call the experts

Let’s get started by looking at the basic steps you can take to diagnose a problem.

Signs That Your Swim Spa Needs Repairs

Your swim spa will probably tell you if there is a problem. It can’t speak (although there may be notifications from a hot tub diagnostics and management app). There will be signs of a problem. Recognizing these signs early can save time and money. 

1. Changes in Water Quality

One of the first signs that your swim spa needs attention is a change in water quality. If you notice that the water has become cloudy, discolored, or starts to emit a foul odor, it’s time to check your water chemistry and filtration system. These changes could be indicative of algae growth, bacterial buildup, or imbalances in pH and chlorine levels. 

There are five stages of chemical catastrophe. If you can stay on top of things from the beginning, it’s easy to fix the problem. Let’s show you the five stages of worsening problems so you can recognize this at stage one.

1. Cloudy Water – Clogged filters or a failing pump will not do enough to remove physical contaminants from the water. It will look cloudy and unclear.
2. Faster Chemical Depletion – With more physical contaminants in the water, the sanitation chemicals are used up faster. The chemicals are used up faster by trying to oxidize the extra organic junk in the water.
3. Difficulty Balancing Water Levels – Once the sanitation is out of whack, the water chemical levels, like pH and alkalinity, will be very difficult to control. Normal dosages will not achieve normal results.
4. Increased Bacteria Growth – Some owners don’t measure the growth of bacteria. But this could be a regular part of swim spa maintenance. Test strips are inexpensive.
5. Algae Bloom – This is the most visible and problematic stage. Your swim spa will turn green. At this point, a complete clean is necessary.

Stage one is visible to the eye, although it might be subtle. Stages two, three, and four must be measured. By the time you see stage five, it will be time to pull the filters, drain the spa, clean everything, and fill it again. So, it’s far better to recognise stage one!

2. Weaker Jets

Those hydrotherapy jets aren’t just there for a good time. They also circulate the water, aiding filtration. If you notice the jets are getting weaker, this is a big clue that you should investigate. Look at the pumps and machinery. Try to find evidence of the beginning of a breakdown.

3. Leaks

Leaks are a serious concern in swim spas. Signs of a leak include visible water accumulation beneath the spa or a noticeable drop in water level that can’t be attributed to evaporation. Early detection and repair of leaks are crucial to prevent structural damage and costly repairs.

4. Poor Water Circulation

Effective water circulation is essential for maintaining water clarity and hygiene. Signs of poor circulation include cold spots in the spa, slow heating, or debris settling on the bottom. This could be due to a clogged filter, a failing pump, or blocked jets. Regular maintenance of these components ensures consistent water circulation and heating efficiency.

5. Strange Noises

Like any other machine, odd noises signal trouble. Listen to your equipment. Any new noises should be identified, located, and investigated. Banging, whirring, or grinding sounds can indicate mechanical issues, such as loose bearings, worn out components, or blockages within the system. Addressing these noises promptly can prevent more damage to the spa’s machinery.

6. Poor Filtration

The filtration system is the heart of your swim spa’s cleanliness and water clarity. If you notice increased debris, cloudy water, or algae formation, your filtration system may not be operating effectively. This could be due to dirty filters, inadequate water turnover, or system malfunctions. Regular cleaning and occasional replacement of filters are essential to maintain optimal filtration performance.

DIY Repair Steps

Maintaining and repairing a swim spa can often be managed by the owner.  Doing the occasional repair yourself feels good and saves money. This section will guide you through some common DIY repair steps. It’s important to have a basic understanding of your swim spa’s components. You’ll also need some basic tools to perform these maintenance tasks successfully.

Water Care and Chemistry Management

The most basic level of maintenance is simply keeping the water balanced. Clean water is healthy water for people. Clean water is also better for your machinery because clean filters make pumps work less.

1. Testing Water Chemistry: Regularly test your swim spa’s water for pH, chlorine, and bromine levels using test strips or a digital tester. The ideal pH level should be between 7.4 and 7.6. Chlorine levels should be maintained at 1-3 ppm and bromine at 3-5 ppm.
   
2. Adjusting Chemicals: If the chemical levels are off, adjust them by slowly adding the appropriate chemicals according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Always add chemicals to water, not water to chemicals, to avoid harmful reactions.
   
3. Shocking the Water: Perform a weekly shock treatment to eliminate bacteria, organic matter, and other contaminants. Use a non-chlorine shock for regular maintenance and a chlorine shock if you notice significant water problems.
   
4. Regular Flushing of Lines: Over time, biofilms can develop in the plumbing of your swim spa. Use a line flush product every few months to clean out the pipes and prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria and algae.
   

Jet and Pump Maintenance

The jets and pump are essential for the operation of your swim spa. Keeping them in good working order ensures efficient performance.

1. Cleaning Jets: Remove any debris or buildup from the jets regularly. If the jets are removable, take them out and soak them in a cleaning solution to dissolve any mineral deposits.
   
2. Inspecting Pump and Circulation System: Listen for any unusual sounds coming from the pump. If it sounds strained or excessively loud, check for clogs or blockages in the filter or intake valves.
   
3. Replacing Worn Parts: Over time, parts of the pump may wear out, such as the impeller or the seals. Refer to your spa’s manual for guidance on how to replace these components or consider calling a professional if the job seems too complex.
   

Addressing Leak Issues

Leaks in a swim spa can be tricky but are often manageable with some basic DIY skills.

1. Identifying the Source of the Leak: Check around the shell for any visible signs of cracks or damage. Also, inspect the unions and fittings on the pump and heater. Tightening or replacing worn gaskets can often resolve minor leaks.
   
2. Using Leak Sealant Products: For small leaks, there are products available that can be added to the water, which seal small leaks from the inside. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when using these products.
   
3. Patch Repairs: If a crack in the shell is the source of the leak, a waterproof epoxy or sealant designed for swim spas can be used to patch the area. Ensure the surface is clean and dry before applying any patch.
   

Maintaining your swim spa yourself not only saves money but also helps you understand and enjoy your investment. Always refer to your swim spa’s owner’s manual for specific maintenance recommendations and safety warnings. If a repair seems beyond your ability, don’t hesitate to contact a professional repair service to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.

Additional Tips

Even the most diligent swim spa owners may encounter issues that require professional attention. Understanding when to call in the experts is crucial for preventing further damage and ensuring the longevity of your swim spa. This section provides guidance on recognizing these scenarios and offers additional maintenance tips.

When to Call a Professional

While DIY maintenance can solve many swim spa issues, some situations warrant professional intervention:

1. Complex Electrical Issues: If you encounter problems with your swim spa’s heating system, control panel, or other electrical components, it’s best to call a professional. Electrical repairs can be hazardous and require specific expertise to ensure safety and functionality.
   
2. Structural Repairs: Cracks or damage to the swim spa shell or frame can compromise the entire structure. Professional technicians can assess the extent of the damage and perform repairs that might not be feasible as DIY projects.
   
3. Persistent Leaks: If you’ve attempted to fix a leak and it persists, or if you cannot locate the source, a professional can use specialized equipment to detect and repair the leak efficiently.
   
4. Recurring Water Quality Issues: If you struggle with maintaining clear and balanced water despite regular treatment, a professional can help diagnose underlying problems that aren’t immediately apparent to even experienced owners.
   

Winterizing Your Swim Spa

Properly winterizing your swim spa is essential to protect it from freezing temperatures and to ensure it’s ready for use when warmer weather returns:

1. Draining: Depending on your climate and the manufacturer’s recommendations, you may need to partially or fully drain your swim spa to prevent freezing damage.
   
2. Cleaning: Clean the shell, jets, and filters thoroughly to remove any debris and bacteria before covering the spa.
   
3. Antifreeze: In regions with severe winters, adding non-toxic antifreeze to the pipes can prevent residual water from freezing and causing damage.
   
4. Covering: Use a high-quality insulated cover that fits snugly over your swim spa to protect it from the elements and to minimize heat loss.

Use one of these best swim spa covers to protect everything during the winter.

FAQs

How can I tell if my swim spa has a leak?

Use the bucket method: Fill a bucket with water, mark the water level, and place it in your swim spa. After 24-48 hours, compare the water levels. If the spa’s water level has dropped more significantly than the bucket’s, you likely have a leak.

Do I need to keep maintaining my swim spa in the winter?

Yes, it’s essential to continue balancing the chemicals and circulating the water occasionally to prevent algae growth and equipment issues.

What should I do if there’s algae in my swim spa?

Use an algaecide and brush the walls and floor of the spa. If algae persist, professional cleaning may be required to eliminate it completely.

Conclusion

With proper maintenance, you can avoid most repairs. This will keep your lifetime swim spa cost down, making it an even better investment. If you’re willing to do all the chemical servicing and fix any minor leaks that occur, you could avoid a professional repair bill altogether.

But, stuff happens. We know it. That’s why our team at Epic Hot Tubs is always ready to answer questions and help you. We can give you advice about managing your chemicals. If you’ve got a small leak, we can also talk you through a simple repair. For more complicated problems, we’ll help you find the best solution. 

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About The Author:

Manny Brambila

Pool & Spa Expert

Manny has been in the Pool & Spa industry for over 15 years and is considered a pool, swim spa, & hot tub expert. He has been a Certified Pool & Spa Operator (CPO) since 2009 and worked 15 years in aquatic training and development for the largest pool chemical and customer care company. He also has been an outside consultant for the Pool and Spa industry in Chicago, New York and Los Angeles since 2018. In the past few years Manny has become Director of Operations for Epic Hot Tubs with a priority of providing customers with the most reliable information and best service possible.