Why is my spa overheating?

If the spa is located in an area that is experiencing hot weather, it is normal to have the spa water temperature rise. To help keep your spa cooler, adjust the spa’s filtration cycles to no more than three hours per day, and only one hour per day during the warmer summer months. Set the cycles to run during later evening or early morning hours when the outside air temperature is cooler. During the summer, set only one filter cycle per day. Open the cover for several minutes, long enough to allow the water to cool down. Repeat a couple times weekly as necessary. For safety reasons, never leave your spa unattended with the cover open. If OHH is displayed on the control panel, this means that the thermometer has detected spa water temperature above 110 degrees F. Do not use the spa at this temperature. Take the advised steps above to cool your spa water to below 106 degrees F before use.

Why won't my spa heat?

If your spa temperature is low, first check the thermostat to see if it has been turned down or set to low heat range. Adjust the thermostat to desired temperature or set to high heat range. Another common reason for your spa temperature to be low is because the high limit sensor has tripped. Press any button on your control panel to reset the system. If neither of the above steps works, your heating system may be defective. Contact your authorized Bullfrog Spas Dealer for further diagnosis.

Why is my GFCI breaker tripping?

Warning: You must be a qualitied electrician and or service technician to perform diagnosing or serial injury or death can result: High voltage components are in use. If the spa was recently installed, the most common reason the GFCI would trip is the Load Neutral (white wire) between the spa and GFCI which must be connected to the Load Neutral port in the GFCI breaker. If the neutral wire is connected to the neutral busbar, the breaker will trip during startup. The neutral connection must not have contact to the ground on the load side of the breaker or it will trip. If the spa is not tripping immediately upon startup, a process of elimination should be used to identify the problem. Disconnect one component at a time from the control board and try restarting the spa. If the breaker trips, reconnect the component then try again by disconnecting a different component. Continue repeating this process until the breaker does not trip. Components include pumps, heaters, lights, stereos, ozone, etc. If the breaker does not trip after disconnecting the component, then the disconnected component is the source of the problem. Once you have determined which component is at fault, replace the component. If you have not found the source of the problem after disconnecting each spa component individually, disconnect all components from the control board and try starting the spa. If the breaker still trips, a certified electrician will need to inspect the breaker and wiring.

Why is my spa making a vibration noise?

A light vibration noise is normal while the spa pumps and motors are running. If your spa’s vibration noise level seems excessive, the first thing to check for is the spa motor’s shipping bolts. Each spa motor has a shipping bolt that can contribute to the vibrating noise and can be removed once your spa is delivered and installed. The bolts have tags with red lettering for easy identification. If the bolts have been removed and your spa still makes an excessive vibration noise, contact your spa dealer for further assistance.

Why is my spa pump creating a burning smell or making excessive noise?

If your spa pump is creating a burning smell or making excessive noise, the pump motor is defective. This can happen when running the pump during high ambient outside temperatures or due to excessive run times. Please contact your authorized Bullfrog Spas dealer for replacing the pump.

Why are my control pad and spa equipment not operating?

If your hot tub control pad and spa equipment are not operating, that means you have no electrical power to the spa. Turn on or reset the GFCI circuit breaker to supply the spa with power again. If this does not solve the problem, have a qualified Electrician check the electrical service for issues. Another reason your control pad and equipment won’t work is if the fuse (20 or 30A depending on the system) has blown. Contact your authorized Bullfrog Spas Dealer for repair/replacement.

Why are my hot tub jets not working?

If your hot tub jets are surging on and off, the first thing to check is your water level as it might be too low. Adjust water to the water level indication mark on the faceplate of the filter assembly. Next, check your filters as they may be dirty. If so, clean or replace them. If your spa’s jets seem weak or are not working, first double-check to make sure that the valves are open. JetPaks have valves at the bottom that open and close by turning the valve. Adjustable jets on M Series, A Series, R Series, and STIL spas open and close by turning the jet face. Adjustable jets on X Series spas open and close by turning the outer ring. The next thing to check is the suction fitting(s) normally located at the bottom of your spa shell to see if they are blocked. Remove any debris you find by hand or with a spa vacuum. If your jets are not working after filling your spa, you most likely have an airlock in the pump. Follow the directions in the “how do I fix an airlock in the pump” section below.

Why won’t my spa won't work after draining and refilling it?

If your spa pumps/jets are not working after filling your spa, you most likely have an airlock in the pumps. Follow the directions in the “how do I fix an airlock in the pump” section below.

How do I fix an airlock in the pump?

To prevent airlocks when filling your spa, be sure to open all valves in the JetPaks and all other jets in the spa before filling to allow as much air as possible to escape from the system during the filling process. Fill your spa through the filter by taking the filter cap off and put the hose directly in the filter. Detailed instructions for filling each spa series are found in your owner’s manual. Your hot tub’s pumps must be primed directly after filling to ensure correct operation of your spa and get rid of any airlocks. After initial startup, verify that the home status screen appears on the panel. Depending on your spa model, your spa has either 1,2, or 3 pumps. To prime the pumps, press the “Jets 1” button once to prime in low-speed. After the pump turns on and water is visibly flowing from the jets wait a few seconds and then press “Jets 1” again to initiate highspeed operation of Pump 1. The pump has primed when water is flowing from the jets. If your spa is equipped with a second jet pump, repeat the priming process for Pump 2 by pressing the “Jets 2” button once to turn on low speed and then a second time to turn Pump 2 on high. If your spa has a 3rd pump, press the “Jets 3” button to prime the third jet pump. All pumps will have primed when water is observed flowing from the jets associated with each pump. On rare occasions, priming the pumps will not get rid of an airlock. The next step is to remove the front panel and locate the pump with an airlock. The wet-end of the pump has a bleed valve—loosen this until all the air escapes and water starts to drip out, or loosen the union on the pump to let the air out until you see water. Do not attempt this while the spa pump is running. If you need help doing this or this does not resolve the problem, please contact your authorized Bullfrog Spa Dealer.

Why do my spa jets turn off during operation?

If your jets turn off automatically after either 30 or 60 minutes, this is completely normal. The automatic timer has completed its cycle. Simply turn the pump back on to start a new cycle. Another reason your jets can turn off unexpectedly is if the pump has overheated due to the vents on the equipment door being blocked. Clear away any items from the vents and wait a while to see if your jets work again. The last reason your spa jets can turn off is if the pump motor is defective. In this case, contact your authorized Bullfrog Spas dealer for service.

Why are my hot tub jets/pump not turning off?

If you are trying to turn off the pump for jets 1 on your spa and it appears that they are not turning off, your spa is in the middle of a filtration cycle. Spas not equipped with a dedicated filtration pump will turn on automatically, using jet pump 1 on low speed, to filter and/or heat. This is normal spa operation.

What do I do if my spa is leaking?

If you notice your spa is losing water, check all fittings and equipment in the equipment compartment for the source of leakage. If a leak is detected, tighten the fitting by hand. If the leak persists, you cannot find the source of the leak, or the leak is coming from the shell, contact your authorized Bullfrog Spas Dealer.

Picking Your Hot Tub Foundation | Concrete & Options

16 November

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Picking the Right Hot Tub Foundation – Concrete & Other Options

Bullfrog Spas | Buying & Research Guide, Benefits & Features | No comment

Selecting the right foundation for your hot tub is crucial for ensuring a hot tub’s stability, longevity, and your overall satisfaction with the installation. When it comes to setting up your hot tub pad, a common question arises: does a hot tub need to be on concrete? In this guide, we’ll explore the key considerations and requirements for a solid hot tub insulation pad.

Does Your Hot Tub Need to Be on Concrete?

The recommended foundation material for a hot tub foundation includes a concrete hot tub pad, concrete paver/patio, pea gravel, crushed rock, or a reinforced deck. Authorized Bullfrog Spas dealers can also sell or recommend pre-formed hot tub pads.

A concrete foundation provides stability and durability for your hot tub’s base. It can withstand the weight of a hot tub and resist shifting over time. A hot tub on concrete patio also provides a level surface, which is crucial for the proper functioning of a hot tub. The flat and even foundation prevents potential issues with the hot tub’s structure and operations.

How Thick of Concrete Do I Need for My Hot Tub?

As a general guideline, a concrete pad should be at least 4 inches thick. Additionally, your concrete hot tub pad should be reinforced with either rebar or mesh. The rebar and mesh should be attached to a bond wire for electrical grounding purposes. The thickness of the concrete hot tub pad generally depends on the weight of the hot tub when filled with water and occupants. The maximum filled weight of a portable spa can be as much as 6,000 lbs to 20,000 lbs, not including the extra weight of occupant. For larger or heavier hot tubs, including swim spas, you might consider increasing that number to 6 inches or more. Consult with your spa dealer if you have any questions.

Alternatives to Concrete

While installing a hot tub on concrete slab is a popular choice, it’s not the only option. The key is providing a stable and level base for your hot tub to ensure proper functionality and longevity.

Decks

Wooden or composite decks provide an aesthetically pleasing alternative. Ensure the deck is sturdy enough to support the weight of the hot tub and that it’s properly leveled. Wooden decks can be suitable, but they require careful planning and reinforcement. Use proper joist spacing and consider adding extra supports to accommodate the weight of the hot tub and the water.

If you’re integrating the hot tub into an existing deck, ensure that the deck structure can support the added weight. Consult with a structural engineer to confirm the deck’s capacity and reinforce it if necessary.

Pea Gravel or Crushed Stone

This option offers good drainage and is relatively easy to install. However, ensuring a completely level surface can be a challenge.

Concrete Pavers or Patio Blocks

Hot Tub Paver/Patio blocks are an alternative to concrete, providing a stable surface. These can be easier to install and offer good weight distribution. Make sure to compact the soil beneath them to prevent shifting.

Grass

Can you put a hot tub on grass? We don’t recommend placing your hot tub on grass.

Additional Considerations

Consider how the hot tub will be delivered and installed. Think about how you will access the hot tub for maintenance or repairs. Ensure there’s sufficient access for equipment and any necessary modifications to the chosen foundation. It should allow for easy access to the equipment panel and other essential components.

Indoors or The Great Outdoors

When choosing a prime location, ask yourself who will be enjoying your new hot tub and if its purpose is to serve as a gathering place for entertaining family and friends or will it be used only privately by the adults in the household for therapy and relaxation. If planning to place your spa indoors, it must be in a location with excellent ventilation to prevent the build-up of steam and moisture in addition to having drainage access. If you’re planning to install your hot tub outdoors, you’ll want to incorporate the surrounding landscape to your best advantage by having a pleasant or scenic vista as the backdrop for the spa.

Access

If you’re installing your new spa outdoors, having convenient access to the main home as well as a place for wardrobe changes is essential. It’s important to choose a location where the spa blends into the environment in a natural way rather than looking like some eyesore that was just plunked down on a pad without any planning beforehand. Does the location you select as the prime spot for your spa afford users enough privacy and have you made plans to screen your hot tub activities from the prying eyes of onlookers or even the next door neighbors?

Consider also how the hot tub will be delivered and installed. Think about how you will access the hot tub for maintenance or repairs. Ensure there’s sufficient access for equipment and any necessary modifications to the chosen foundation. It should allow for easy access to the equipment panel and other essential components.

Level Ground

A level surface is paramount for a hot tub foundation. Uneven ground can lead to structural issues, affect water distribution, and even damage the hot tub over time. There should be no dips, sags, or unevenness in the hot tub pad. Do not use shims to level the spa as this could create tension on the spa and result in damage. There should be a maximum of ½” (1.27cm) slope in an 8‘ (2.44m) run. Use a level or consult with a professional, such as an authorized Bullfrog Spas dealer, to make sure the ground is even.

Local Codes & Regulations

Always check and adhere to local building codes and regulations. Some areas may have specific requirements for hot tub installations, including foundation specifications. Failure to comply can lead to issues down the line.

Drainage

Proper drainage is crucial to prevent water accumulation around the hot tub.

Next Steps

Investing time and effort into selecting the right hot tub foundation is crucial for the longevity and functionality of your relaxation oasis. Assess your budget, preferences, and the specific requirements of your property. Whether you opt for concrete, decking, or gravel, the key is to create a secure and level foundation that enhances your hot tub experience. When in doubt, consult with professionals. Structural engineers or hot tub installation experts can provide valuable insights tailored to your specific situation. For more information, check out our Bullfrog Spas Delivery and Installation Guide.

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AUTHOR - Bullfrog Spas

Bullfrog Spas is a premier brand of personalized premium hot tubs. With proprietary hydromassage technology and an eye for contemporary design, Bullfrog Spas is revolutionizing the concept of the portable hot tub and providing a relaxation experience unlike any other. Discover the award winning spa of the future today.

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