How Do I Stop My Hot Tub Jets From Clogging?

Regularly clean the filter and use a jet cleaner to prevent debris from clogging the jets. Encourage bathers to rinse off before using the tub to minimize oils and lotions entering the water.

Why Do Hot Tub Jets Clog?

Understanding the reasons why your hot tub jets may clog is crucial to effectively preventing it. Here are some of the main causes of clogged jets:

• Debris and Dirt: Despite using a filter, small particles like hair, leaves, dead skin cells, and other debris can make their way into the jets. Over time, these particles can accumulate and create blockages.

• Hard Water: Hard water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can deposit and build up inside the jet system. These deposits create a barrier in the plumbing, reducing water flow.

• Chemical Buildup: Chemicals such as chlorine or bromine, while essential for keeping your hot tub water clean, can lead to buildup. If you use too many chemicals or don’t maintain the correct chemical balance, these residues can cause clogs.

• Dirty or Old Filter: A filter that isn’t cleaned or replaced regularly may allow debris to pass through, eventually blocking the jets.

When Do Hot Tub Jets Start Clogging?

It’s important to catch the signs of jet clogging before it becomes a significant issue. While your jets may not clog overnight, there are signs that can indicate it’s time to take action.

• Reduced Water Flow: If you notice a decrease in the force of water coming from the jets, it could be a sign that there’s a blockage.

• Uneven Jet Performance: If some jets are working fine but others are weak or not producing any water flow at all, this could indicate clogging.

• Unusual Noises: A hissing or gurgling sound coming from the jets may signal an airlock caused by a clog.

Catching these early signs can help you prevent a major clog before it causes significant damage to your hot tub system.

What Are the Best Ways to Prevent Hot Tub Jets from Clogging?

Preventing clogged jets requires a proactive approach. Here are several strategies that you can implement to keep your jets running smoothly:

1. Clean the Filter Regularly

The filter is one of the most important components in preventing clogs, as it prevents debris from entering the plumbing and jet system.

• Monthly Maintenance: Aim to clean your filter every month. If the filter appears dirty or clogged, wash it thoroughly using water and a non-toxic filter cleaner.

• Replacement: If your filter is worn out or too old, replace it. A clogged or ineffective filter will only worsen the problem.

• Clean the Filter Housing: Don’t forget to clean the filter housing as well. A buildup of dirt in the housing can also obstruct the flow of water.

2. Maintain Proper Water Chemistry

Imbalanced water chemistry is one of the leading causes of clogged jets. Here are the key chemical factors to monitor:

• pH Level: Keep the pH level of your hot tub water between 7.2 and 7.8. Low or high pH levels can cause scaling, leading to clogs in the jets.

• Alkalinity: Total alkalinity should range from 80 to 120 ppm. This helps buffer pH levels and prevents scale buildup.

• Sanitization: Use a sanitizer (chlorine or bromine) to keep bacteria and algae under control. Algae and organic matter can build up in the jets and cause blockages.

• Hardness: Test the hardness of your water regularly. Water that is too hard may lead to mineral buildup that can clog the jets.

3. Flush the Jet System Regularly

Even if you’re cleaning your filter and maintaining water chemistry, you should periodically flush the entire system to prevent buildup in the plumbing.

• Monthly Jet Clean: Use a specialized hot tub jet cleaner solution once a month to flush out mineral deposits and oils that accumulate in the system.

• Draining and Refilling: Drain and refill your hot tub every 3 to 4 months to ensure that the water stays clean and free from chemicals and organic matter.

• Run Jets with Cleaner: After adding a jet cleaner solution, run the jets for a few hours to ensure that the cleaner reaches all areas of the jet system.

4. Cover Your Hot Tub When Not in Use

Debris entering your hot tub is a major contributor to clogged jets. A cover will help keep dirt, leaves, and other particles from getting into the water.

• Invest in a Quality Cover: Make sure your hot tub has a high-quality, well-fitting cover. This helps prevent debris from entering the water and creating blockages.

• Keep the Cover Clean: Regularly clean the cover to ensure it’s free from dirt and debris. Also, check for any holes or damage that might allow particles to get inside.

5. Install a Water Softener

Hard water is a common issue in many areas and can be one of the leading causes of clogged jets. If your water is too hard, installing a water softener can prevent mineral buildup in the plumbing.

• Water Softening Products: If installing a full water softener isn’t an option, use a water softening product that’s designed for hot tubs to reduce calcium buildup.

• Check the Water Hardness: Test your water hardness regularly, and if it’s too high, treat the water with a softening agent.

Where Are the Areas Most Prone to Clogging in the Jet System?

Certain parts of the jet system are more prone to clogging due to water flow and debris accumulation. Identifying these areas can help you focus your cleaning efforts.

• Jet Nozzles: The jet nozzles themselves can become clogged with debris, minerals, and oils. Regularly clean the nozzles by removing them and using a small brush to clear them out.

• Plumbing and Pipes: The pipes leading to the jets can also become clogged over time due to mineral buildup or chemical deposits. Flushing the system regularly can help prevent this.

• Pump and Filter: If the pump or filter becomes clogged, it can reduce water flow to the jets, causing uneven performance or complete failure of the jets. Always maintain and replace the filter as needed.

How Can You Fix Clogged Jets?

If your jets are already clogged, don’t worry! There are several methods you can use to fix them.

1. Remove and Clean the Jet Nozzles

In many cases, you can simply remove the nozzle and clean it manually.

• Take the nozzle off: Unscrew the nozzle and check for visible debris. Use a small brush or pipe cleaner to remove any dirt or buildup inside.

2. Use a System Flush Cleaner

A specialized hot tub system cleaner can break down mineral buildup and oils in the plumbing and jets.

• Add Cleaner: Pour the cleaner into the water, turn on the jets, and run them for a set period of time (usually about 15-30 minutes).

• Drain and Refill: After running the system cleaner, drain and refill the hot tub to remove any remaining residue.

3. Inspect the Pump

If the jets are still clogged after cleaning the nozzles and flushing the system, check the pump for any blockages.

• Look for Clogs in the Pump: The pump may have become clogged with debris, so carefully inspect it for any blockages.

• Call a Professional: If you’re unable to clear the clog yourself, it may be time to call in a professional technician.