Hot Tub Control Panel FAQ [Unlock, Test, Reset, Diagnose]
Enhance your Hot Tub Experience
Sometimes simple things can get in the way of your spa experience. Simple hot tub care can take care of most of the issue but occasionally things can go wrong with the hot tub’s influx, transformer, htr temp lmt or the control panel. This article addresses some of the hot tub control panel issue that may arise.
Sometimes there are issues created by animals or vermin damaging wiring. Here is a video explaining an issue caused by a rabbit!
How do I reset my hot tub controller panel?
Usually this is a fairly simple process. A hot tub’s control panel or control box can be reset by manually turning it off and waiting between 10 and 20 seconds before turning it back on. It is crucial to wait the full 10 to 20 seconds in order to allow all of the data to clear from the panel.
If after taking these steps, the control panel is still not working correctly, users may want to check to ensure no water has found its way into the control panel. Next, users should check for any corrosion thay may have occurred on the wiring.
If the control panel still is not working, users can turn it off overnight in order to allow the hot tub to fully reset. Finally, users should make sure that no buttons are damaged on the control panel. If problems persist, the control panel may need to be fully replaced, and it is wise to call on an expert for help.
Is there a reset button on a hot tub or spa?
Hot tub control panels do not have reset buttons, but their spa heaters can be reset using a button. In order to fully reset the control panel, users should manually turn it off or unplug it and wait 10 to 20 seconds. The same applies to a partial display readout.
However, to reset the heater, users can simply use the high-limit reset button. Furthermore, if these two methods do not work to fix any errors being experienced with a hot tub or the blower, users may want to flip the breakers connected to the hot tub.
Finally, in order to reset a hot tub, users should ensure that proper maintenance care has been done correctly. For example, all filters should be clean and free of debris, water levels should be sufficient, and all outlets should be fully plugged in to appropriate units.
Why does my hot tub topside control panel keep saying error?
There could be a number of reasons why your topside panel LCD display is showing an error message. Here are a few common causes of error messages in hot tubs:
- Water temperature: If the water temperature in your hot tub is too high or too low, it could trigger an error message.
- Flow issues: If there is an issue with the water flow in your hot tub, such as a clogged filter or a problem with the pump, it could cause an error message to be displayed.
- Heater problems: If there is a problem with the hot tub’s heater, it could trigger an error message.
- Electrical issues: If there is a problem with the hot tub’s electrical system, such as a tripped circuit breaker or a problem with the wiring, it could cause an error message to be displayed.
If you are unable to troubleshoot the problem on your own, it’s a good idea to consult the hot tub’s owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer for further assistance.
How do I unlock my hot tub control panel?
It is important to note that every hot tub will operate a bit differently depending on the brand, its age, and the different features with which it comes equipped, and unlocking the control panel will likely not look the same for every user.
However, there are a few steps that are similar if not the same for every hot tub. So, in order to unlock the control panel, users should find and press the “Time” button located on the hot tub’s operating panel.
Then, the “Jets 1” button should be pressed followed by the “Set Down” button. From this point, an “O” will appear to indicate that the control panel has been opened or unlocked.
How do I test my hot tub top side panel?
In order to test a hot tub’s controller panel,
- Users must first identify whether any issues being experienced are stemming from the control panel or the circuit board.
- Then, users should check for any moisture that may have accumulated in the display panel.
- Next, the panel should be checked for any cracks or broken buttons.
- If a single part is causing issues, users should check for error warnings or blinking lights.
- Finally, the breaker should be reset. If problems continue after this, the breakers should be turned off, and the control panel should be disconnected in order to inspect the circuit board.
If none of these methods work, users can connect another control panel known to work and connect it to the circuit board. If this control panel works and the original does not, it can be assumed that the problem exists within the control panel and not the entire circuit board.
How do I reset the high limit switch on my hot tub?
High limit switches can easily be reset by simply pushing the button on a hot tub. Typically, the high limit switch is a big red button located on a hot tub’s spa pack.
The high limit switch is used to prevent hot tubs from overheating. Therefore, if the switch detects that a hot tub has heated beyond temperatures of 110 to 120 degrees, it will trip and shut off the heater. When this happens, the high limit switch works to break the energy circuit to prevent the hot tub’s heater from literally melting. When water temperatures reach safe levels once again, the high limit switch must be manually reset.
How do I know if my high limit switch is faulty?
When a high limit switch has failed, the most common giveaways will involve issues with water temperature regulation. For instance, a high limit switch is designed to keep a hot tub’s water at safe temperatures, typically preventing it from reaching anywhere beyond 120 degrees.
However, if water begins to climb beyond this temperature, it is likely the high limit switch is faulty. In order to test the switch, users should first ensure that the hot tub’s thermostat levels have not been altered causing a change in temperature regulation.
Next, users should ensure that the thermostat probe is placed properly within the water. If it is not submerged sufficiently, the temperature readings will be faulty.
Finally, if the hot tub’s temperature is still not regulated, the temperature of the high limit thermowell should be measured. If it’s temperature is the same as the water’s, the high limit switch must be replaced. How do I know if my hot tub circuit board is bad?
How do you diagnose a hot tub problem?
There are several common problems that may cause a hot tub to malfunction including an inability to heat up, fluctuating water temperatures, faulty jet buttons or jets, an error code displayed on the control panel, a loud pump, constantly running circulating pump, or the GFCI breaker tripping.
To troubleshoot the problem, users should first identify the source. To cover all bases water levels should be adequate, and filters should be clean and free from debris. Then, if the water is cold or irregular, there may be issues with plumbing lines or the heating element. If jets are not working well, the issue often exists with the jets being dirty or turned wrongly, or there may be an airlock in the plumbing.
The control panel is easy to read and will typically tell users the type of error occurring within the hot tub. Finally, if the pump is loud or not working and all other elements such as water level and blockages have been checked, there may be an issue with old components.
If specific problem areas have been addressed, and a hot tub is still malfunctioning, it may need to be completely reset. However, the easiest way to troubleshoot any issues is to call a professional.
Why is my hot tub light flashing?
Typically, these are either red or green lights that will blink on a hot tub to indicate a variety of issues that may occur. For example, a red flashing light may indicate a hi-limit trip, a dirty filter, gfci failure or a stalled circ pump.
Meanwhile, a green flashing light often indicates an error with the hot tub’s sensor. Additionally, if both red and green lights are flashing, the hot tub is likely experiencing low flow.
However, many hot tubs also contain lights that also blink but are not used to indicate any issues. For instance, the power indicator turns on when the hot tub is sufficiently powered, the ready indicator flashes when the hot tub’s temperature is within its set limits, and the clean indicator lights up and remains on throughout the entire cleaning cycle when the clean button is pressed.
