Pumps are an essential component of any hot tub. In a swimming pool, the pumps function similarly to an engine that propels the jets and cycles the water.
Using the circulation pump in your hot tub is also the simplest and most effective way to maintain the cleanliness of your spa.
Maintaining your hot tub regularly is equally important to preserve it in pristine condition throughout the year with spa maintenance and proper care. But if you are wondering how long hot tub pumps last and how to make them even longer, stick to this article until the end.
What Exactly Is A Circulation Pump For A Hot Tub?
It takes a certain kind of pump known as a hot tub circulation pump to keep the water in a hot tub moving in a circular pattern. A hot tub circulation pump is not the same as the primary pump that operates the jets; rather, it is accountable for continuously circulating water throughout the hot tub system to provide filtration at all times of the day and night.
It’s possible that your quality hot tub doesn’t have a circulation pump. Still, the idea behind them is that they help maintain the hot tub water clean. In hot tubs that do not have a circulation pump, the water is pushed by the jets driven by the normal pump. This happens both when the hot tub is being used and when it is going through its filtration cycles.
Even though most hot tub circulation pumps are built to endure for a good number of years, ultimately, they will need to be replaced.
So, How Long Do They Last?
It is recommended that a hot tub circulation pump be replaced at least every five years. However, it is not unheard of for them to continue functioning normally in an average lifespan of up to 20 years.
However, the pump’s longevity in hot tubs can be affected by various factors, such as the model of the pump, the condition and quality of the water, and how well it is maintained.
The longevity of a circulation pump is susceptible to being shortened by a number of factors, including the following:
- The pump was clogged with debris. The accumulation of dirt and debris, such as scale or calcium, can block the hot tub pumps or hot tub plumbing and prevent them from operating efficiently. This is especially true if you don’t use a hot tub cover.
- The water level in your hot tub is dangerously low. If air were to get into the pump, it might get air locked, which would ultimately cause it to fail.
- Utilization of the hot tub pumps in water that is filthy or hard. The formation of scale in the pump can also be caused by mineral-rich water, such as that which comes from a well.
You may help guarantee that the hot tub circulation pump has a healthy and long lifespan by taking adequate care of your water level and preventing the abovementioned factors.
How To Prolong The Life Of Hot Tub Pumps?
To answer the question of how long hot tubs last, the pumps in most hot tubs are the most labor-intensive component because they move the water and are responsible for keeping the water heated, filtered, and clean. This is in addition to the incredible massage you receive when you sit directly in front of its jets on the entire hot tub.
So if you wish to make the hot tub heater last as well as the lifespan of a hot tub pump, here are some things that you have to keep in mind
Check The Hot Tub Pump’s Seal
The seals on hot tub pumps will eventually wear out and need to be replaced, like with another worn item. Inspect the area under the hot tub where the pumps are located during the spring and fall to ensure the seal has not begun to leak. You should replace the seal on the pump and motor if you see the water getting in between them.
If you don’t change it, water will get into the bearing near the pump seal and eventually cause it to fail. It’s more economical to replace the seal when it wears out than buy new hot tub pumps if it seizes.
Clean Hot Tub Filters
It’s yet another strategy for extending the life of the motors that power hot tub pumps. Keeping the area around the pool pump free of debris and dirt is crucial in preventing the pump from becoming clogged. You can extend the life of your pipes and keep things running smoothly by cleaning the filters once a week.
Maintain A Balance Of Water Chemistry
Maintaining a stable pH level in your water supply is crucial. If the water’s pH is too high, the scale will form and eventually clog the speed pumps, reducing their efficiency.
Most pumps and the pool itself are susceptible to corrosion or damage from acidic water or a pH level that is too low. Keeping the spa’s water level balanced will prevent damage to the pump and other spa equipment and allow the pump to operate at peak efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know If My Hot Tub Pump Is Bad?
There are a few telltale symptoms of broken hot tub pumps: Motor not turning, humming sounds, maybe due to frozen shaft, bearings, issues with the hot tub shell, or faulty hot tub heaters. Rusty bearings make a squeaking sound. When the pump seals fail, water leaks out from underneath.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace Pump In A Hot Tub?
The cost to replace the motor and pump in a hot tub ranges from $200 to $1,200. Price ranges from $200-$500, don’t include installation costs for circulation models. Replacement of a hot tub’s pump can earn between $750 and $1,200, especially for a two-speed pump to increase hot tub longevity.
Do I Need To Drain Hot Tub To Replace The Pumps?
If you ever need to drain the spa for some other reason, you can do it in preparation for the repair, like a broken hot tub heater, but it is not required. It is possible to squeeze the hoses shut with large needle-tip locking pliers or to use a wine cork or stopper.
Conclusion
There would not be a hot tub that could function without a pump. The pumps in a hot tub last longer or perform well with consistent upkeep and inspection. That is why it extends the life of your hot tub pump and helps you save from all the costly fixes. You can also buy a quality hot tub rather than cheaper hot tubs, use hot tub covers well, and follow the above information to make your hot tub last longer.
