Why Isn’t My Jetted Tub Working? Troubleshooting Tips for Homeowners

A personal jetted bathtub should be a source of luxury and relaxation, not stress. If dirty or malfunctioning jets are causing nothing but a bubbling sense of frustration, use Liberty Home Guard’s troubleshooting guide to get things back in working order.

How Jetted Tub Systems Work And Why They Stop Working

There are three primary categories of jetted tubs:

• Whirlpool tubs pump water through underwater jets, circulating the water and providing a massage as a kind of hydrotherapy.
• Air tubs force air, often heated, through underwater jets to generate bubbles in the water for a gentler massage.
• Combination jetted tubs feature both water and air jets.

Individual designs vary, but most jetted tubs feature the same basic components:

• A motorized pump pulls water from a filled whirlpool or combination tub and forces it through the jets at higher pressure.
• In an air tub, the air blower pushes air through a manifold or distributor to force air into the water via jets. 
• Internal plumbing or tubing channels water from the tub to the pump and from the pump to the jets, or they direct air from the blower to the jets. 
• Jet assemblies or nozzles are mounted on or set into the tub’s interior surface and introduce air or jets of water into the filled tub. Jets may be adjustable to allow for directional or pressure control.
• Control panels or remotes allow you to turn jets on or off and adjust the tub’s settings.

If one of these core components malfunctions, the jetted tub may not run properly, if at all. The most common causes of malfunction include:

• Clogs and Buildup

The accumulation of minerals, soap scum, body oils, and other kinds of residue account for some of the most common shower and bathtub issues, and jetted tubs are particularly vulnerable because of their internal plumbing. Because the motorized pump of a whirlpool or combination tub moves water from the tub, through the lines, and out the jets, the plumbing and jet assemblies are in direct contact with soaps, oils, dirt, and anything else dissolved or suspended in the water. This residue clings to surfaces and builds up over time, potentially clogging the lines or otherwise impairing the function of one or more jets.

Air tubs may not have internal lines that are exposed to water, but their jets and nozzles can still become clogged.

• Mechanical Problems

Mechanical snafus can affect the pumps or air blowers in jetted tubs. These pumps have finite lifespans, just like well pumps and sump pumps, and the motor, impeller, gaskets, housing, or some other part will eventually succumb to wear and tear. Note that a jetted tub’s pump will almost certainly fail sooner if the pump runs for a prolonged period of time while the tub is empty.

• Electrical Malfunctions

Electrical controls govern a jetted tub’s operation. A power surge, corroded wiring, or moisture reaching the electrical components can take the entire system down.

• Leaky Plumbing

Loose or corroded plumbing connections can result in a dripping faucet or leaky internal lines. The cost and complexity of repair is dependent on the location and underlying cause of the leak.  

Common Mechanical Issues Homeowners Can Check First

If your whirlpool, air, or combination tub isn’t working properly, you may be able to resolve the problem independently and without much trouble. Refer to the troubleshooting guidance below.

1. Check the power supply.
   If the control panel is totally unresponsive and the pump won’t engage at all, the tub is probably not supplied with power. If easily accessible, reset the GFCI outlet in the wall. Otherwise check the dedicated breaker at your home’s electrical panel.
    
2. Confirm the appropriate water level.
   The tub should be filed enough so that all jets are submerged. If any jets or nozzles are above the waterline, the tub may not function properly. 
    
3. Readjust the jets and check for clogs.
   Jets are typically adjustable, allowing for changes in pressure or direction. You may simply need to play with the settings to find your preference. 
   
   If problems persist, inspect the jets for clogs. Soapy, oily residue or mineral buildup could be impeding the flow of water or air. Heavy mildew or mold accumulation is possible as well. Often, cleaning jets in jetted tub basins is all that is necessary to get everything working properly again. There are several bathtub cleaning strategies you can employ to make short work of clogged jets. You can also refer to the tub’s manufacturer’s documentation to best decide how to clean jacuzzi jets in bathtub basins.
    
4. Rule out an airlock.
   An airlock in a whirlpool or combination tub occurs when air becomes trapped within the tub’s internal system, preventing the pump from working correctly. Symptoms can include poor or inconsistent jet pressure, sputtering, or a lack of flow from the jets even though the pump is running.
   
   You can try to fix an airlock by filling the tub with water, opening all the jets, and running the jets on high for about 20 seconds. A temporary flow of air bubbles should come from the jets. If not, try this process two more times. 
   
   You can resolve a persistent airlock by removing the access panel to work with the pump directly. Loosening the union nut that connects the pump to the tub’s plumbing system should release the trapped air with a hiss.

Signs Your Tub Needs a Professional Inspection

Some problems with jetted tubs have more serious underlying causes that require professional attention. Call a pro when:

• There are electrical issues, such as the breaker or GFCI outlet tripping whenever you turn on the tub.
• There are persistent jet failures despite cleaning or air lock troubleshooting.
• The tub gives off a burning smell, which suggests a malfunctioning motor.
• The pump makes grinding, whining, or rattling noises.
• Water leaks from the jets, drips outside, or stains the walls adjacent to a corner jetted tub.

Why a Healthy Plumbing System Is Important

A jetted tub is dependent on the health of the home’s overall plumbing system. Ailing plumbing appliances may result in harder water, which can in turn generate greater mineral accumulation inside the tub’s lines. 

On top of responsible maintenance, one of the most effective ways of keeping your plumbing system in good condition is leveraging home warranty protection. A policy from Liberty Home Guard can ensure that surprise plumbing issues are repaired quickly and affordably. Our coverage options support not only a home’s core plumbing system, but also a host of fixtures, appliances, and amenities that extend from it. Find the coverage best suited to your home by calling (833)-545-6630.