What Should I Do If My Hot Tub’s Water Level Keeps Dropping?

Check for leaks in the shell, jets, or plumbing. Evaporation may also be a factor, especially if the tub is uncovered or used frequently.

Normal Water Loss vs. Abnormal Water Loss

Before you start investigating the cause of the water drop, it’s important to understand that some water loss is completely normal. There are two types of water loss in a hot tub: evaporation and leaks.

1. Evaporation

Evaporation is a natural process that occurs when water is exposed to heat and air. Hot tubs are heated to high temperatures, and as a result, some water will evaporate.

• How much water loss is normal?: During colder months or when the weather is hot and dry, you may experience more evaporation. Generally, a water loss of 1-2 inches per week due to evaporation is normal, but this can vary depending on the temperature, humidity, and use of the hot tub.

• How to reduce evaporation: Use a well-fitted hot tub cover to reduce water loss. A cover will also help keep the water at the desired temperature, saving energy.

2. Leakage

If you are noticing more water loss than usual or it seems to be happening quickly, this could indicate a leak somewhere in your hot tub.

• Signs of a leak: If the water level drops more than 1-2 inches per week, or you find that the water is dropping rapidly without any visible reason, it’s likely that you have a leak. Leaks can occur in the plumbing, jets, or even in the shell of the hot tub.

• Causes of leaks: Leaks can occur due to damaged seals, cracked pipes, worn-out gaskets, or other components that may have been damaged during regular use.

How to Diagnose the Cause of Water Loss in Your Hot Tub

If you’ve ruled out normal evaporation and suspect a leak, there are a few steps you can take to diagnose the problem.

1. Inspect the Hot Tub Shell for Cracks

The first thing you should do is inspect the hot tub’s shell for visible cracks or damage.

• Where to look: Check the underside of the hot tub, especially around the edges and near the jets, for any visible cracks or damage. A small crack or hole can allow water to leak out, which may not be immediately noticeable.

• What to do if you find a crack: If you find a crack, it’s important to repair it as soon as possible to prevent further water loss. You can purchase repair kits specifically designed for hot tub shells, or you may need to call a professional to make the repair.

2. Check the Jets and Plumbing

Leaks in the jets or plumbing lines are another common cause of water loss in hot tubs.

• Where to check: Inspect all jets and plumbing lines for signs of water leaks. Sometimes, water may leak from the jets or the plumbing when the hot tub is in use, and you may notice drips or small puddles around the base of the hot tub.

• What to do if you find a leak: If you discover a leak in the plumbing, you may need to tighten or replace the plumbing connections. For larger issues, it may be necessary to call a professional plumber or hot tub technician.

3. Examine the Hot Tub’s Equipment and Connections

Check all equipment and connections, such as the heater, filter, and pump, for any signs of leakage.

• Where to look: Inspect all connections, hoses, and seals around the heater, pump, and filter. If these components are not properly sealed, water may escape.

• What to do if you find a problem: Tighten any loose connections, and replace worn-out seals or hoses. If you are unsure about how to do this, consult your hot tub’s manual or contact a professional.

4. Perform a Bucket Test to Check for Leaks

If you’ve inspected the shell and equipment and can’t find the source of the water loss, it’s time to perform a bucket test to determine if you have a leak.

• How to do the test: Fill a bucket with water and place it in the hot tub, making sure the water level in the bucket is equal to the water level in the hot tub. After 24 hours, compare the water levels in the bucket and the hot tub.

• What to look for: If the water level in the hot tub drops more than the water level in the bucket, this is a sign of a leak in the hot tub.

What to Do If You Have a Leak

If you’ve confirmed that your hot tub is leaking, there are a few options for fixing the problem.

1. Temporarily Patch the Leak

If the leak is small, you may be able to temporarily patch it until you can call a professional to perform a more permanent repair.

• How to patch: You can use a rubber sealant or underwater adhesive to patch small cracks or holes. These products are designed for use in wet environments and can help seal leaks temporarily.

• Caution: This is only a temporary solution. It’s best to contact a professional to make permanent repairs as soon as possible.

2. Call a Professional

If the leak is too large to patch yourself, or if you’re unable to find the source of the leak, it’s time to call a professional.

• What to expect: A professional hot tub technician can diagnose the source of the leak, whether it’s in the plumbing, shell, or equipment. They will have the right tools and expertise to perform the necessary repairs.

• Cost of repairs: The cost of repairing a hot tub leak will vary depending on the location and severity of the issue. However, it’s often more cost-effective to repair the leak early rather than letting it cause further damage to your hot tub.

Preventing Water Level Loss in the Future

Once you’ve fixed the leak, it’s important to take steps to prevent future water loss.

• Regularly inspect the hot tub: Make it a habit to check the hot tub for any signs of damage or wear. Early detection can help you catch leaks before they become major problems.

• Maintain proper water chemistry: Regularly test the water chemistry to ensure that the water is balanced and free of contaminants that can cause damage to the hot tub’s components.

• Use a cover: Always use a well-fitting cover to minimize evaporation and protect the water from debris.

Regularly Clean the Hot Tub Filters and Jets

Clogged filters or blocked jets can lead to reduced circulation, which may cause excess water loss.

• How to clean the filters: Remove the filters and rinse them thoroughly with a hose. For deeper cleaning, use a filter cleaning solution to soak the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Cleaning the jets: Make sure to clean the jets periodically to ensure water circulates properly.

• Frequency: Cleaning your hot tub’s filters and jets once a month is recommended.

Check the Heater and Pump Regularly

The heater and pump can be a source of leaks if not maintained properly. Ensure that the components are operating correctly to prevent further water loss.

• Inspect the heater: Check the heater for any visible damage, cracks, or signs of wear.

• Inspect the pump: Ensure the pump is functioning properly and that the seals are intact.

• Fix any issues promptly: Address any problems with the heater or pump immediately to avoid significant water loss.