When a hot tub stops working, a relaxing luxury may become a throbbing headache. You may be capable of fixing some problems yourself or narrow down issues for pool repair technicians. Here's a look at a few commonly experienced hot tub issues and what you can do about them.

What's Wrong With My Hot Tub?

1. Water Chemistry

The pH range of water in a spa should be adjusted and monitored for acidity-versus-alkalinity balance and to remove contaminants. Otherwise, the water may irritate your skin, destroy fittings, and mar the tub's lining. The limited volume of water in a spa may cause water chemistry to change quickly.

Check the pH level using a test strip. The acceptable range should be between 7.1 and 7.8 to avoid scale buildup. If the pH reading is outside the range, follow the directions on the packaging of the spa or hot tub chemical agent you use to correct it. When the water gets cloudy or filmy, empty and refill it.

2. Jets Not Working

Scale buildup can freeze the nozzles in place and harden inside the pipes. A clogged filter can block the flow of water as can a bubble of trapped air.

If the tub makes thumping or humming noises, the pump may have a problem. If the jets don’t power on, you may have tripped a breaker. You can clean the filter or switch breakers to restore power. You may force an air bubble to pass through the system by turning the heat to the lowest possible setting, opening all the nozzles, running the jets for about 30 to 45 seconds. If that doesn't work, or if the jets have stopped for another reason, you'll need a professional.

3. Heater Failure

If the jets are working but the water is cold, check the heater. A heater may fail when the pH of water in a tub has been low for a long time. Acidic water corrodes heating elements. To confirm the damage, examine the filter and thermostat. If they're rusty and worn, have them replaced.

If you need a hot tub repaired or replaced, visit Aquarian Pools & Spas in Loveland, OH. This family-owned Clermont County business carries a full selection of pools and hot tubs in their 9,500-square-foot retail store and creates custom designs as well. Their knowledgeable staff will help you find what you're looking for. Call (513) 576-9771 to schedule a consultation, or visit their website to learn more about their pool and spa services.