How to Fix Swim Spa Jets That Aren’t Working

Have you noticed that your swim spa jets aren’t working properly? Whether they’re weak, sporadic, or not turning on at all, it can be frustrating when your swim spa jets aren’t delivering the powerful massage or flow you’re used to. The good news is that most issues with swim spa jets are fixable, and you can often resolve them yourself. At Hydropool, we’ve worked with countless swim spa owners, helping them get their jets back in top shape.
In this article, we’ll explain what could be causing your swim spa jets to stop working and the steps you can take to fix them.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- Common reasons swim spa jets stop working
- How to troubleshoot and fix the issue
- When to call a professional
Common Reasons Swim Spa Jets Stop Working
There are several reasons why your swim spa jets might not be working properly. It could be a minor issue you can resolve yourself, or it could be a more complex problem. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Air Lock
An air lock occurs when air gets trapped in the plumbing, preventing water from flowing through the jets. This can happen after draining or refilling the swim spa, or if there’s been a power outage. - Clogged Jets or Filters
Over time, debris can build up in your swim spa’s jets or filters, restricting water flow and affecting performance. This is a common issue, especially if the swim spa hasn’t been cleaned regularly. - Pump Problems
The pump is responsible for circulating water through the jets. If the pump is malfunctioning or not running at the correct speed, the jets won’t work as they should. A damaged or worn-out pump can also lead to weak or intermittent jet pressure. - Electrical Issues
Electrical problems can also prevent the jets from working. If there’s a fault with the control panel, wiring, or electrical components, it may stop the jets from functioning altogether.
How to Troubleshoot and Fix the Issue
Before calling a professional, it’s a good idea to troubleshoot the issue yourself. Here are the steps you can take to fix common problems with swim spa jets:
- Check for Air Locks
If you suspect an air lock is the issue, you can try priming the pump to remove the trapped air. Turn the swim spa’s pump on and off several times to help release the air. If this doesn’t work, you can use the manual purge function if your swim spa has one, or refer to the owner’s manual for specific instructions. - Clean the Jets and Filters
Clogged jets and filters can restrict water flow. Start by cleaning the filters. Remove them and rinse them thoroughly with a garden hose, using a filter cleaner if necessary. If the jets themselves are clogged, use a jet cleaning solution or a small brush to clear out any debris. - Inspect the Pump
If cleaning the jets and filters doesn’t resolve the issue, check the pump. Make sure the pump is running smoothly and there are no visible signs of damage. If you hear unusual noises or notice poor performance, it could indicate that the pump needs to be repaired or replaced. For replacement parts, check out our Swim Spa Catalog. - Check for Electrical Issues
If the jets still aren’t working, there may be an electrical issue. Check the control panel for any error codes or malfunctions. If there are no visible issues, it’s best to consult a professional to inspect the wiring and electrical components.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve gone through the troubleshooting steps above and your swim spa jets still aren’t working, it may be time to call in a professional. Here’s when you should seek help:
- The jets aren’t working even after you’ve checked for air locks, cleaned the filters, and inspected the pump.
- You notice electrical issues, such as malfunctioning controls or error codes.
- The pump is making strange noises or seems damaged.
A professional technician will be able to diagnose the problem and perform repairs if needed. To find a local Hydropool retailer or service professional, visit our Find a Retailer page.
How to Fix Swim Spa Jets That Aren’t Working
Swim spa jets not working can be frustrating, but in most cases, the issue can be resolved by checking for air locks, cleaning the jets and filters, inspecting the pump, or addressing electrical problems. If the issue persists, don't hesitate to call a professional to get your swim spa back in working order.
For more tips on swim spa maintenance and troubleshooting, be sure to visit our Learning Centre.