Table of Contents - Hot Tub Jets Not Blowing? How To Fix Them
This blog post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Hot Tub Jets Not Blowing? How To Fix Them
Understanding Hot Tub Jet Systems
How Hot Tub Jets Actually Work
Common Types of Jets and Their Functions
| Jet Type | Function | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Directional | Creates focused stream that can be aimed | Targeted relief for specific areas |
| Rotary/Spinning | Moves in circular patterns | Kneading effect for large muscle groups |
| Pulsating | Produces rhythmic water flow | Muscle relaxation and tension relief |
| Waving | Moves side-to-side or up-down | Wide-area massage across back |
| Neck Jets | Positioned near headrests | Upper neck and shoulder relief |
| Foot Jets | Located in footwell areas | Ankle and foot massage |
pump configuration and jet-to-pump ratio
Signs Your Jets Are Malfunctioning
- Weak or inconsistent pressure – Usually means filter troubles, water flow issues, or pump problems
- Jets that pulsate rather than providing steady flow – Points to circulation issues or water levels being too low
- Water shooting from air controls instead of through nozzles – Yikes! That’s a major system hiccup
- Jets that suck water in rather than pushing it out – Another red flag for serious problems
- Struggling to adjust jet direction – Typically happens when calcium from hard water builds up
Quick Fixes for Non-Working Jets
Check Your Water Levels
- Look for that water line marker inside your spa
- Make sure neck and shoulder jets are NOT underwater (they’re actually supposed to be above water)
- Top up until water reaches the recommended level, usually about 3 inches above the filter
Inspect Control Panel Settings
- Is your spa in the right operating mode (not stuck in “service mode”)?
- Have all jets been turned on in your control settings?
- Are temperature settings properly set up?
Clean Visible Debris from Jets
- Safety first! Turn off all power to your hot tub
- Check which jets can be removed (most pop right out)
- Play detective and look for visible blockages in the nozzles
- Clear away any debris you spot
- Fighting mineral buildup? Mix up white vinegar and water for a natural cleaning solution
Reset Your Hot Tub System
- Find your hot tub’s circuit breaker
- Flip it completely off
- Count to 30 (this lets the system fully discharge)
- Switch the breaker back on
Solving Airlock Issues After Refill
Image Source: https://pexels.com/
What Causes Hot Tub Airlocks
- Jets refusing to work even though you hear the pump running
- A peculiar humming sound coming from your pump or jets
- Some jets bubbling happily while others seem to be on strike
Step-by-Step Guide to Bleeding Air from Lines
Method 1: The Cycling Technique
- Make sure all jets are completely open (twist those faceplates counter-clockwise)
- Crank your jets to high speed for a quick 10-15 second burst
- Turn everything off completely
- Repeat this on-off cycle, adding about 10 seconds to each “on” phase
- Keep playing this start-stop game until you spot air bubbles emerging from the jets
- Once the bubbles start dancing, let your jets run until they’re back to normal
Method 2: Bleeding the Pump Directly
- Safety first! Cut power to your hot tub at the breaker
- Hunt down your pump (your owner’s manual can be your treasure map here)
- Pop off the access panel with a screwdriver
- Find that large union nut connecting your spa plumbing to the motor
- Very s-l-o-w-l-y loosen this union using channel lock pliers
- Listen for the satisfying hiss of escaping air; when it stops, water will start to sputter out
- Once water flows steadily, snug that union back up tight
- Power up and test those jets!
Preventing Airlocks During Future Refills
Addressing Weak or Inconsistent Jet Pressure
Filter Maintenance Solutions
- Monitor those filter pressure readings—time for cleaning when readings jump 10 psi above normal
- Give your filter a weekly shower with your garden hose, getting between those pleats to flush out all the yucky stuff
- Once a month, treat your filter to a spa day with a proper cleaning solution that has degreasing power
- Say goodbye and replace filters every 12-24 months as those fibers naturally loosen with age
Clearing Clogged Jet Nozzles
- The classic “some work, some don’t” syndrome
- Jets shooting water in random directions like tiny water cannons
- Frustrating stop-and-start flow from certain jets
- Safety first! Cut all power to your hot tub
- Pop off those jet faces (most twist right out like jar lids)
- Play detective and look for visible gunk inside the jet body
- Fighting stubborn mineral buildup? Give jets a vinegar bath
- Scrub away deposits with a soft brush before putting everything back together
Fixing Pump and Plumbing Problems
- Clogged pump impeller—especially suspicious if filter pressure readings are unusually low
- Pump RPM settings gone wild—those fancy variable speed pumps should kick into high gear in spa mode
- Loose union fitting letting air sneak in—creating pressure-killing air leaks
Repairing or Replacing Damaged Jets
Image Source: https://pexels.com/
How to Tighten Loose Jets
- Safety first! Cut all power to your hot tub
- For adjustable jets, twist the outer ring counterclockwise until it stops, then keep turning to remove the insert
- Pop that jet back into its proper home
- Turn clockwise until you hear that satisfying “click” – that’s your signal it’s properly locked
When and How to Replace Worn Jets
- Weird noises during operation (jets shouldn’t sound like they’re gargling!)
- Leaks that keep coming back despite your tightening efforts
- Jets that have lost their oomph or blow inconsistently
- Plastic parts that look cracked or feel brittle to the touch
- Drain your hot tub below the problem jet’s level
- Twist out the old jet (counterclockwise turns the trick)
- Give that housing a good cleaning – no shortcuts here!
- Fighting leaks? Apply waterproof silicone around the edges
- Insert your shiny new jet and turn clockwise until it locks in place
- Patient spa owners wait 24-72 hours for silicone to set before refilling
Recommended Jet Replacement Products
hot tub jets are not universal
- Directional jets – Perfect for targeting that stubborn knot in your shoulder
- Rotational jets – These spinning wonders work magic on large muscle groups
- Pulsator jets – Deliver rhythmic pressure that melts tension away
FAQs
How often should I clean my hot tub jets?
Why are my hot tub jets weak?
How many jets should a hot tub have for proper performance?
Are hot tub jets universal/interchangeable?
How long do hot tub jets typically last?
How much does it cost to replace a hot tub jet?
Why are my hot tub jets not producing strong water pressure?How often should I clean my hot tub jets?Are hot tub jets universal and interchangeable?How many jets should a hot tub have for optimal performance?What’s the typical lifespan of hot tub jets?
