Home Garden

Hot Tub Low Flow Problems

Hot tub low flow problems are most often associated with the filter, jets, water level or pump. All these parts can affect the amount of water flowing in and out of the hot tub. Sometimes, a quick fix -- such as cleaning or adjusting the problematic part -- is all that's required to increase the water flow level.
  1. Filter

    • Particles sometimes become trapped in the filter, and a clogged filter may not filter the water as efficiently, which can affect the water flow. Rinse the filter with a water hose about every two weeks to remove dirt or other debris. If the filter has not been cleaned in a long time, minerals and oils can become imbedded in the filter, requiring an overnight soak in a filter cleaning solution to clean the filter well.

    Jets

    • Closed jets inhibit the amount of water that can flow in and out of the hot tub. Most jets have a faceplate that can be turned to increase or decrease the water flow. Fully open all the jets to ensure the hot tub receives as much water flow as possible.

    Water Level

    • Keep the water level above the jet openings and any pump fitting openings. The water level must come in contact with the jets or pump to keep the water flowing. If the water level is low, air instead of water is sucked into the jets or pump.

    Pump

    • Prime the filter pump to replace the air in the pump intake with water. Failing to prime the pump can cause air to become trapped and prevent the pump from circulating water. Some pumps are primed simply by filling the hot tub to the appropriate level -- that is, over the jets or pump -- but some hot tub manufacturers recommend priming the pump with a strong force of water to ensure any air is released. Insert the hose into the filter pump, or another area of the pump system as recommended by the manufacturer, and turn on the hose full force for about 30 seconds to flush the system.