Is your hot tub heater on the fritz? Are you dreading the thought of having to call a professional to come and fix it? Don’t worry; replacing your hot tub heater is a manageable task you can do yourself with just a few simple steps.
Not only will replacing your hot tub heater save you money, but it will also give you a sense of pride and accomplishment. Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy your hot tub again in no time!
In this article, I’ll walk you through the steps to replace your hot tub heater, so you can get back to relaxing in warm, bubbling water.
Can I Replace a Jacuzzi or Hot tub heater or element?
Yes, you can replace a Jacuzzi or hot tub heater yourself. Replacing a hot tub heater requires a few simple steps, such as turning off the power and water, disconnecting the old heater, and installing the new heater.
In some cases, replacing the element and tube as a complete unit may be best, but if you feel confident and are careful, you can replace just the element to reduce the repair cost. Note that hot tub heaters collect calcium deposits over time, which makes them less efficient in producing heat, and a bad heater element will increase your electric bill.
The cost to replace a hot tub heater will vary depending on the make and model of your tub, but replacing the heater element itself will typically cost under $50. Of course, if you decide to replace the heater element only, more work and risk are involved, but it can save you some money over buying the entire heater.
If your heater has stopped working and it’s old, it may be time to invest in a new heater, or it may simply need a new element tube and/or anode tubes to regulate temperature.
Choosing Your New Hot Tub Heater
When buying a heater for your hot tub or Jacuzzi, there are a few things to consider.
The most common size heater is a 4.0 KW or a 5.5 KW, but it is essential to ensure you read the wattage and order the same rating as your current one and check the voltage (120 volts, 240 volts, etc.) to make sure you get the same.
All spa equipment must be labeled, making the specifications easy to determine. For example, to properly size a gas heater for a hot tub, you can multiply your spa’s length, width, and average depth by 7.5 to determine spa gallonage.
Factors that may affect the size of the spa heater required include whether the spa will be covered to prevent heat loss and whether it is located indoors or outside.
There are various types of hot tub heaters, including Sundance/Jacuzzi heaters, Flo Thru Heaters, and Balboa 5.5 KW Heater Elements, to name a few. If you need to replace a heater on your Master Spas hot tub, you can learn how to do so step-by-step on YouTube.
How to Replace Your Hottub Heater
Here are the essential steps;
- Turn off the power and water if applicable
- Disconnect the heater
- Drain the hot tub
- Remove the old heater
- Install the new heater
- Reconnect the wiring
- Refill the hot tub
We will discuss removal and replacement in more detail below.
After you’ve disconnected the power from your hot tub, you are ready to get started.
Old Heater Removal
When removing the old heater from a hot tub, the first step is to drain the hot tub. Once the hot tub is drained, the old heater can be removed using a wrench to unscrew it from the hot tub. Be careful when removing the heater to avoid damaging the hot tub or any other components. Here are some important considerations and potential troubleshooting steps to keep in mind when removing the old heater:
Considerations:
- Ensure the hot tub’s electricity is turned off before removing the old heater to avoid any electrical shock hazards.
- If the old heater is difficult to remove, try using a penetrating oil or heat to help loosen it.
- Before removing any gaskets or seals, please take note of how they are positioned and make sure to install any new ones in the same manner when installing the new heater.
Potential troubleshooting:
- Use a strap wrench to gain better leverage if the old heater is stuck or difficult to remove.
- If the old heater is corroded, use a wire brush to remove any buildup or rust causing it to stick.
- If the old heater has been in place for a long time, it may be difficult to remove due to mineral buildup. In this case, a descaling solution may be needed to help break down the buildup and make the heater easier to remove.
New Heater Installation
Once the old heater has been removed, it is time to install the new heater. To do this, slide the new heater into place and secure it with screws or clamps.
It is vital to make sure any new gaskets or seals that come with the new heater are installed correctly to prevent leaks. Here are some important considerations and potential troubleshooting steps to keep in mind when installing the new heater:
Considerations:
- Make sure the new heater is the correct size and type for your hot tub.
- Be careful not to overtighten any screws or clamps when securing the new heater, as this can damage the heater or the hot tub.
- Double-check that all electrical connections are secure and properly insulated before turning the power back on.
Potential troubleshooting:
- If the new heater is not heating the water properly, check the electrical connections to make sure they are secure and properly insulated.
- Double-check that all gaskets and seals are properly installed and tightened if there are any leaks.
- If the new heater is making unusual noises or emitting strange odors, turn off the power and double-check all connections and components to make sure everything is installed correctly.
Overall, removing and installing a new heater in a hot tub can be a relatively straightforward process as long as you take the time to do it carefully and correctly. By following the above considerations and potential troubleshooting steps, you can help ensure a successful installation that will keep your hot tub running smoothly for years.
Cost to replace a heater vs buying a new hot tub.
When considering whether to replace a hot tub heater or buy a new hot tub, it’s crucial to weigh the costs of each option. For example, the cost of replacing a hot tub heater can range from $225 to $1000, including the cost of a new heater.
Electric spa heaters are generally less expensive than gas heaters, with repair costs usually under $100. Common issues that indicate a need for hot tub pump replacement include no water coming out of the jets, a lack of water flow despite pump noise, and water leaks near the pump.
It’s worth noting that hot tubs have a variety of other components that may need repair or replacement over time, such as foam covers, filter cartridges, and circuit boards. Repairing a hot tub motherboard can range from $160 to $400 while repairing a major leak can cost around $1,500. Foam cover replacement costs about $400-500 on average.
The cost of a new hot tub varies widely depending on factors such as size, quality, features, and brand. Entry-level hot tubs typically cost around $3,000, while premium or luxury models can cost $6,500 to $18,000 or more. In-ground hot tubs can cost $8,000 to $25,000 to install. If repair costs exceed half the cost of a new hot tub, many people would consider buying a new hot tub instead.
When deciding whether to replace a hot tub heater or buy a new hot tub, consider factors such as the age and condition of the hot tub, the cost of repairs, and the cost of a new hot tub. For example, replacing a faulty heater or other components may be more cost-effective if the hot tub is still in good condition overall. In contrast, a new hot tub may be a better option if the hot tub is old and in need of multiple repairs.
Can I replace just the heating elements?
Yes, replacing just the heating element in a heater is possible instead of replacing the entire unit. While it may be cheaper to replace only the faulty part at the time, it’s essential to consider that replacing only one part may lead to further repairs on the other components in the future.
To check if the heating element is the issue, one can remove the wires and check for continuity (ohms) in the element or check for voltage and current. However, it is essential to note that safety precautions should be taken, and one should not attempt to perform any repairs that they are not confident they can do safely.
Additionally, if the heating element is bad, it is likely caused by corrosion, indicating that the anode rod may need replacing.
Where to buy replacement hot tub heaters?
There are several options to buy replacement Jacuzzi or hot tub heaters. One option is to purchase directly from the manufacturer, such as Hayward or Jacuzzi. Another option is to check online retailers like Amazon and eBay for Balboa heaters.
Canada Hot Tub Parts and Pool Store Canada also offer a variety of hot tub heaters and elements available for purchase in Canada. Still, they may ship to the United States. Hot Tub Supply Store is another online retailer that offers OEM heater replacements for Jacuzzi and Sundance hot tubs.
Additionally, PST Pool Supplies offers a guide on replacing the hot tub heater element. Leslie’s Pool Supplies provides information on replacing the entire spa heater assembly or the internal immersion element. It is recommended to compare prices and product quality before making a purchase.
Replacement Hot Tub Heaters are effective and affordable.
Replacing a hot tub heater may seem daunting, but with the right tools and patience, it can be a simple DIY project to save you money. Following the steps outlined above, you can replace a faulty hot tub heater on your own without needing professional help.
However, it’s important to note that working with electrical components can be dangerous, so taking all necessary precautions and turning off the power before starting any work is essential.
Before attempting to replace a hot tub heater, research to ensure you have the correct replacement parts for your specific hot tub model.
Additionally, it’s always best to consult a professional for guidance if you are unsure about any aspect of the replacement process.
Overall, replacing a hot tub heater can be a satisfying and cost-effective DIY project that can extend the life of your hot tub and provide you with a relaxing soak for years to come.
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