The spa demystified

Détecto has designed a practical guide for you to know everything about the terminology associated with the different parts and parts of a Spa and to better understand the frequent problems and breakages that can occur.

The Short History of Spas

This type of bath appeared in 1956, invented in a pragmatic way by Candido Jacuzzi, an American of Italian origin. He ran a manufacturer of aircraft propellers and hydraulic pumps and needed a device for hydrotherapy treatments.

This served as the starting point for the marketing of these new “hot tubs” beginning in 1968. The name “Jacuzzi” was registered as a trademark and is often used as a common name.

Spas, Quebec and guarantees

Over the past twenty years, the use of the spa has become much more democratized and has become very popular in Quebec. However, it should be remembered that originally, the spa was not necessarily designed to be used in northern climates, such as here in Quebec.

It is therefore not surprising that most spa manufacturer warranties exclude freezing as a reason to claim damage covered by this warranty. General warranties mainly cover key parts such as pumps and water heaters for 5 years, and the shell is covered against manufacturing defects for sometimes twenty years, but these defects are extremely rare. We can therefore say that the warranty is limited and difficult to apply in most cases, especially when the spa is in operation in winter.

Fortunately, apart from the shell, everything is repairable and the lifespan of a hot tub is estimated at around 15 years, with some maintenance and/or repairs to certain components!

General Components of Hot Tubs

*See the image above for a visual reference for each of the parts.

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1.Filters‍

Filters require regular maintenance to minimize pump work — it's rare for a lack of maintenance to cause damage but it's not impossible.

2. Cascade‍

The waterfall is primarily an aesthetic element and rarely causes major problems. Over time, slight leaks may occur if some joints wear out, but these situations are generally easy to correct when detected early.

3. Head Rest‍

Headrests are comfort elements that are constantly exposed to water and chemicals. Over time, they may discolor or deteriorate, but replacing them is generally simple and inexpensive.

4. Jets‍

The jets are more or less numerous depending on the category and the price of the spa. If the water inside the tank freezes during the winter, the pressure of the ice can damage the jets. However, most of the time, an episode of freezing leads to a break in the pipes, which causes the tank to be emptied before the water solidifies completely. The jets are therefore rarely directly damaged.

5. Shell/tank ‍

The tank, often referred to as the shell, is the most critical component of a hot tub. Most of the time it is made of polymers and is almost irreparable when damaged. Fortunately, it is very rare for a breakage like frost to hit it — it takes a major shock to break it irretrievably.

6. Bypass valve‍

The bypass valve allows water to be directed to various spa circuits. Although it is sturdy, it can wear out over time or show slight leaks if handled frequently. Fortunately, these situations are generally easy to correct when detected early.

7. The control panel

The control panel is the interface located at the top of the spa. It is from this that we start the pumps and adjust the water temperature. Although it is an electronic element, it is designed to be weather resistant and rarely has major problems.

8. Plumbing/pipework 

Spa plumbing consists of a series of PVC pipes that connect the jets, filters, and circulation elements of the spa. If the hot tub is not used in winter, it is essential to empty all pipes thoroughly and to protect the spa from any water coming in.

A small residue can lead to significant damage. Plumbing is often contained in sprayed urethane insulation and makes it very difficult to identify the location of a leak or breakage; often the entire plumbing will have to be changed if frost sets in.

9. Draining

Draining allows water to be evacuated from the spa during maintenance or wintering. Although it is simple in its operation, it must be tightly closed after use in order to avoid any loss of water.

10. Frame/Trim

The frame and the cladding constitute the external structure of the spa. They support the tank and protect the internal components from the elements. Over time, exposure to humidity, sunlight, and temperature changes can cause materials to deteriorate.

‍11. Control box

The control box is located under the hot tub. It contains the electronic card, the fuses and the main electrical components: it is the real “brain” of the spa. The sensors transmit information continuously to it in order to regulate the temperature and protect the system.

In the event of overheating, freezing, or lack of water, the box can automatically shut down the hot tub to avoid damage. However, in winter, a prolonged shutdown can cause major damage to the pumps, water heater or pipes if the water freezes.

Fortunately, as these components do not contain water, they themselves are rarely damaged during a frost episode.

12.Water Heater/Heater

‍The water heater uses the most energy and its lifespan is often affected by external factors such as electrical overloads. Indeed, electrical repairs after breakdowns are sometimes very demanding on the water heater and when it is worn out, sometimes after only 4-5 years, it sends a stop signal to the control unit.

Again, this is not a problem until the freeze is present; otherwise, the hot tub whose water heater is no longer working will start spinning water whose condition gels more and more, and the pumps will then work so hard that their lifespan will be affected. Old water heaters also sometimes suffer from dry wires; a condition that can lead to a short circuit, and to the stopping of the hot tub.

13. Air Blower/blower‍

The air blower injects air into the jets in order to create the effect of bubbles and increase the sensation of massage. Unlike the pump, it does not circulate water, but only acts on the air.

Humidity and normal wear and tear can affect its operation over time. Proper maintenance generally ensures its longevity.

14. Massage pumps ‍

The pumps are often present in pairs for the massage function and sometimes, a third is installed for the circulation function exclusively, an option that requires water maintenance. As mentioned briefly above, pumps that will work while water becomes ice becomes ice are taxed prematurely and often will have to be changed if the freeze has occurred.

In addition, they are located at the lowest point of the pipe system so it is not uncommon for water to remain trapped there if the spa stops. Again, if frost sets in while water is present in the pumps, the damage will then be irreversible.

‍15. Ozonator‍

The ozonator is a complementary disinfection system that helps maintain the quality of spa water. It injects ozone into the water to reduce the amount of bacteria and contaminants, which also decreases the need for chemicals.

16. Vanne‍

The valve makes it possible to control or direct the flow of water inside the spa. It is used during maintenance, emptying or to isolate certain components of the system.

17. Electrical box ‍

Quebec electrical standards require the installation of a DDFT (differential earth fault circuit breaker or “GFCI” in English) specific to the spa. The DDFT (or GFCI) is generally located outside the house, near the spa. This circuit breaker protects spa occupants against electric shock and its main function is to control the current leak and thus ensure the protection of bathers.

It is not uncommon for this type of circuit breaker to stop working after a certain period of time. Fortunately, if it is faulty, it remains in a secure closed position and no longer allows the current to pass in order to protect bathers. However, if it is in winter, this condition could damage other components of the spa.

* Note that except for the shell, everything is repairable in a spa!

To Remember

A spa break in winter is not necessarily a disaster.

If the interruption is recent (less than 2 to 3 days), several components can still be protected. Call in an emergency wintering service as soon as possible to limit the impacts.

At Détecto, our expertise in pool inspection has been built over the last 30 years. With more than 15,000 pools inspected, our team has a keen eye and an accurate analysis of the real condition of your pool.

Our neutrality also makes all the difference. We do not sell pools or equipment, which allows us to offer you an objective assessment and tailored recommendations — without conflicts of interest.

Whatever your situation, do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to help you better understand your pool and make the right decisions.