8 Hot Tub and Spa Care Tips to Keep Your Tub Running

After 15 years of experience working on hot tubs across Long Beach, we see the same pattern over and over. A homeowner calls when the jets won’t fire or the water won’t heat. By that point, what could have been a minor fix has grown into a much bigger job.

Hot tub repair is something most owners in Southern California don’t think about until something goes wrong. And because hot tubs here run year-round, the wear adds up fast. Routine attention and proper water balance can prevent most of those emergency calls.

This guide covers eight essential areas of hot tub and spa maintenance that help your tub stay running at its best. We walk through each one, explain what’s involved, and help you find the approach that fits your situation, whether that means handling something yourself or calling a trained technician.

As Jandy and Pentair certified installers, our team works on all major makes and models. We provide maintenance and repair on everything from brand-new hot tubs to older units. If you own a hot tub or a swim spa, these are the areas that matter most.

What Are the Most Common Hot Tub Problems?

The most common hot tub issues include:

• Heater failure. Element burnout, thermostat problems, or error codes that prevent the water from reaching temperature.
• Jet problems. Weak flow, stuck nozzles, or jets that won’t turn on.
• Pump malfunction. Unusual noise, leaking seals, or complete motor failure.
• Control panel errors. Display codes, unresponsive buttons, or faulty sensors.
• Leaks. Cracked shells, loose fittings, or worn plumbing connections.
• Cover deterioration. Waterlogged foam, broken straps, or sagging that lets heat escape.

Most hot tub repairs are worth doing when the tub is under 10 years old and structurally sound. Based on what we see in the field, pumps and heaters can often last 7 to 10 years with balanced water.

Learn more about our professional hot tub repair service in Long Beach.

Hot Tub Installation Options for Long Beach

The first big decision for any hot tub owner is what kind of setup fits your home. There are three main paths: a portable above-ground hot tub, an inground build set into your deck or patio, or a pool and tub combo that shares equipment and plumbing.

In neighborhoods like Naples and Seal Beach, pool and tub combo designs are common. Homeowners with backyard space often go with a swimming pool hot tub combo for both recreation and relaxation. If you’re weighing options, our in-ground hot tub guide breaks down what to expect, and the in-ground hot tub cost breakdown covers budgeting.

Many hot tubs, especially larger or permanently installed models, need a dedicated 240V circuit with GFCI protection. That’s a licensed electrician job, not a weekend project. California also requires barrier and fencing compliance for inground installations, so check your local permit requirements before breaking ground.

If you’re starting from scratch, our page on installation options covers portable, inground, and hybrid setups. We’re expanding into full construction and remodeling work, so keep us in mind if you’re planning a new build. For those who want something built into an existing backyard, residential tub installation walks through the process from planning to first soak. Swim spas are another popular choice for Long Beach properties with limited space but a desire for both exercise and relaxation.

Hot Tub Repair: When Something Breaks

Your hot tub gives you warning signs before it fully breaks down. Unusual noises from the pump, temperature swings, error codes on the control panel, or water pooling around the base all point to something that needs attention.

In our experience, hot tub equipment can last 7 to 10 years with proper water balance. But coastal salt air in Long Beach, Belmont Shore, and Naples speeds up corrosion on metal fittings, heating elements, and electrical connections. We see hot tubs fail earlier along the coast than we do a few miles inland.

Anything involving electrical components, gas lines, or internal plumbing should be handled by a professional. Swapping a filter cartridge is a homeowner job. Troubleshooting a pump motor or diagnosing a heater error code is not, and attempting complex electrical work yourself can void warranties or create safety hazards.

Our approach to hot tub and spa repair is to diagnose first, explain what’s wrong and why, then fix it. We don’t replace parts unless they actually need it. Every job comes with a one-year parts and labor warranty.

Hot Tub Heater Troubleshooting

In our experience, hot tub heaters tend to fail more often than pool heaters. Hot tubs run at higher temperatures, typically 100 to 104 degrees, and the smaller water volume means the heater cycles more frequently. That extra stress wears down components faster than in a full-size pool.

Common heater problems include element corrosion, thermostat failure, flow switch errors, and ignition issues on gas-fired units. The CDC recommends hot tub water temperature should not exceed 104 degrees for safety, so a heater that overshoots or can’t hold temperature is both a comfort problem and a health concern.

Water balance plays a direct role in heater lifespan. Low pH, meaning acidic water, corrodes heating elements. High calcium causes scale buildup that reduces efficiency and blocks flow. Both cut years off your heater.

Because we handle electrical, plumbing, and gas line work ourselves, we can diagnose and fix hot tub heater issues without bringing in a second contractor. We’re certified on both Jandy and Pentair systems and work on hot tubs regularly, not just pools, so the diagnosis is accurate the first time.

Signs you should call an expert: water won’t reach the set temperature, the heater runs but the water stays cold, or you see an error code on the display. In our experience, catching a heater issue early can save you hundreds compared to a full replacement.

Fixing Weak or Broken Hot Tub Jets

Weak or non-functioning jets are one of the top complaints from hot tub owners. You sit down expecting a strong massage and get a trickle instead.

Common causes include clogged jet nozzles, air locks in the plumbing, worn diverter valves, and pump issues that reduce flow. Acidic water with low pH can deteriorate the plastic jet housings over time. Jets may crack or fall out of their seats.

Scale buildup from hard water is another frequent culprit in the Long Beach area. Southern California tap water runs high in calcium, and that mineral buildup restricts jet openings in hot tubs throughout the region. The flow drops gradually, so you may not notice until it’s already significant.

Most jets are replaceable without major plumbing work. But diagnosing the root cause matters. We’ve found that about half the time we look at hot tubs with jet complaints, the jet itself isn’t the real problem. Replacing a jet won’t help if the issue is actually the pump or a blocked diverter valve. A proper diagnosis saves you from paying for the wrong fix.

Hot Tub Water Balance and Chemical Levels

In our 15 years of hot tub work, unbalanced water is the most common cause of early equipment failure we see. It affects heaters, pumps, jets, and surfaces. Every other area on this list holds up longer when the water chemistry is right.

Here are the vital parameters to monitor:

The CDC recommends maintaining at least 3 ppm of chlorine or 4 to 8 ppm of bromine in hot tubs. Bromine is a common choice in hot tubs because it stays effective at higher water temperatures.

Hot tub water balance works differently than pool water balance. The water volume is much smaller, so chemical changes happen faster and are less forgiving. One person soaking for 30 minutes can shift the pH and sanitizer levels noticeably.

Plan to drain and refill your hot tub every 3 to 4 months depending on usage. Weekly testing at your level plus monthly professional testing catches imbalances before they damage your system. That’s one of the things we cover during our Pool School sessions with new customers, so you know what to test and what the numbers mean.

Hot Tub Cover Upkeep and Replacement

A hot tub cover does more work than most people realize. It holds heat in, keeps debris out, and reduces chemical loss from evaporation. When the cover fails, everything else works harder to perform.

A typical hot tub cover lasts roughly 3 to 5 years before it needs replacing, depending on sun exposure and how well it’s maintained. Signs it’s due: the cover sags in the middle, feels heavier than it used to (that’s waterlogged foam), has visible cracks or tears in the vinyl, or smells musty when you lift it.

A waterlogged cover loses its insulating ability. The heater runs longer to hold temperature, and your energy costs climb. Hot tubs in a Southern California climate take extra UV punishment from year-round sun, which breaks down cover material faster than in cooler regions. The vinyl dries out, cracks, and loses its seal.

Regular clean-up with mild soap, a UV protectant every few months, and latching the cover when the hot tub is not in use can add a year or more to its life. A properly fitted cover also reduces how much sanitizer you burn through between soaks.

Pool and Hot Tub Upkeep: Running Both Together

Many Long Beach properties, especially in established neighborhoods like Los Altos and Bixby Knolls, have a pool and hot tub that share equipment. The pump, heater, and filter often run both bodies of water. That means a problem with one affects the other.

Weekly spa maintenance includes skimming, checking chemical levels, inspecting equipment, and cleaning the waterline. But when the hot tub shares plumbing with the pool, the technician handling the work needs to understand how water flows between the two. Not every pool company is able to handle hot tub work, and that gap leads to problems.

Spillover hot tubs, where heated water flows from the hot tub back into the pool, call for extra attention on chemical balance. The two bodies of water mix constantly, and treating them as separate can throw off both.

Energy-efficient equipment upgrades, like variable speed pumps, can reduce operating costs for combined pool and hot tub setups. The CDC also recommends preventive programs for hot tub equipment to ensure vital components get replaced before they fail. That applies to hot tubs at your house, not just commercial facilities.

When to Fix vs. Replace Your Hot Tub

A well-maintained hot tub can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, depending on build quality and how well the water balance was managed. Major components like pumps and heaters in hot tubs typically need attention before that, often in the 7 to 10 year range based on what we see across Long Beach.

Here’s a general rule: if the hot tub is under 10 years old and the shell is in good condition, most fixes are worth doing. Swapping a pump, heater, or control board costs far less than a full hot tub replacement.

As a general rule of thumb, if the cost to fix something exceeds roughly half of what a replacement would run, or if you’re facing multiple major failures at the same time, replacement starts to make more sense.

Signs it may be best to replace rather than fix:

• The shell is cracked and can’t be patched reliably.
• You’re dealing with repeated electrical issues that won’t stay resolved.
• The equipment is outdated and replacement parts are no longer available for your makes and models.

Things that shorten a hot tub’s life faster than anything else: consistently unbalanced water, running without a cover, ignoring small leaks, and skipping filter upkeep. Any one of those can take years off your hot tub.

Schedule Your Hot Tub Visit in Long Beach

Whether your maintenance needs involve hot tub repair, installation, or ongoing upkeep, Adam’s Pool and Spa handles all of it under one roof. We’re certified on both Jandy and Pentair equipment and provide expert service for hot tubs across Long Beach, Seal Beach, Los Alamitos, Rossmoor, Lakewood, Bellflower, Downey, Paramount, Westminster, and Cypress.

We respond within 24 hours for emergency calls. New customers get a Pool School consultation where we walk through your entire hot tub, so you understand what you’re paying for and why each part matters. After your first session, you’ll know your hot tub well enough to spot small issues before they turn into expensive problems. We perform this for every new customer because we believe owners who understand their hot tubs make the best decisions.

Call (562) 522-2203 or visit adamspoolandspa.com to schedule your visit.

FAQs About Hot Tubs

Q: What are the most important spa maintenance tasks for keeping my hot tub running smoothly?

A: The most essential spa maintenance tasks include checking and balancing water chemistry weekly, cleaning or replacing filters monthly, draining and refilling the tub every 3-4 months, and inspecting the cover for damage. Regular hot tub maintenance also involves testing sanitizer levels, removing debris from the water surface, and wiping down the shell. These routine tasks prevent costly repairs and ensure your spa operates efficiently for years to come.

Q: How often should I schedule professional service for my spa?

A: Most experts recommend scheduling professional service for your spa at least once or twice a year, even if everything seems to be working properly. A qualified technician can inspect internal components, check for leaks, test electrical connections, and identify potential issues before they become major problems. If you use your hot tub frequently or notice any unusual sounds or performance issues, you may need more frequent service visits to maintain optimal operation.

Q: What makes and models require special maintenance considerations?

A: Different makes and models of hot tubs have unique maintenance requirements based on their filtration systems, heating elements, and jet configurations. High-end models may feature advanced ozone or UV sanitization systems that require specific care, while budget-friendly options might use simpler cartridge filters. Always consult your owner’s manual for model-specific maintenance guidelines, as some manufacturers recommend particular cleaning products or replacement part specifications that ensure warranty compliance and optimal performance.

Q: Which part of my spa requires the most frequent attention?

A: The filter is the part that requires the most frequent attention in any spa system. You should rinse your filter with a garden hose every 2-4 weeks and perform a deep clean using filter cleaner solution monthly. Most filters need complete replacement every 12-24 months depending on usage. Neglecting filter maintenance reduces water circulation, forces your pump to work harder, and can lead to cloudy water and equipment failure.

Q: How can I maintain proper water chemistry in my spa?

A: To maintain proper water chemistry, test your spa water 2-3 times per week using test strips or a liquid test kit. Keep pH levels between 7.2-7.8, alkalinity between 80-120 ppm, and sanitizer levels appropriate for your system (chlorine, bromine, or alternative). Add chemicals in small increments and allow the water to circulate before retesting. Balanced water chemistry prevents corrosion, scaling, and bacteria growth while keeping your spa safe and comfortable for users.

Q: What expert advice can help extend the life of my hot tub?

A: Expert advice for extending your hot tub’s lifespan includes always keeping the cover on when not in use to maintain temperature and keep debris out, never allowing the water level to drop below the skimmer, and avoiding harsh household cleaners on spa surfaces. Additionally, experts recommend maintaining consistent water temperature rather than constantly adjusting it, as temperature fluctuations stress the heating system. If you also have a sauna, similar principles apply—proper ventilation and regular cleaning prevent wood damage and ensure longevity.

Q: What is the best solution for cloudy or foamy spa water?

A: Cloudy or foamy water typically results from poor filtration, unbalanced chemistry, or buildup of body oils and lotions. The best solution involves first testing and adjusting your water chemistry, then thoroughly cleaning or replacing the filter. For persistent foam, use a foam reducer product and shock the water with an oxidizer. If cloudiness continues, drain and refill the spa, as high total dissolved solids may be the culprit. Establishing a shower-before-soaking rule helps prevent future issues by reducing contaminant introduction.

Q: How do I properly maintain my spa during winter months or extended periods of non-use?

A: During winter or extended non-use periods, you have two maintenance options: keep the spa running with reduced temperature settings and regular chemical treatment, or winterize it completely. Winterization involves draining all water, blowing out plumbing lines with a shop vacuum, adding antifreeze to jets and pipes, and securing the cover. If you maintain operation during winter, check the spa more frequently to ensure the heater functions properly, as frozen pipes can cause catastrophic damage. The choice depends on your climate and how long the spa will remain unused.