Hot Tub not Heating

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burneytfp

Member
Sep 16, 2023
5
Beverly, MA
Pool Size
3000
Surface
Vinyl
Chlorine
Liquid Chlorine
Hi all,

We recently bought a house that came with a hot tub and above ground pool. Thanks to this site, I got the chemistry on both balanced beautifully!!!

Unfortunately, I'm now having a different issue with the spa I'm hoping you can help with. Basically, it won't heat up. The error code on the "topside control" says "dr"

I've gone through a bunch of videos on youtube related to this issue, mostly talking about airlocks. I've restarted and primed the spa in a few different ways (multiple presses, a long press, using a plunger), I checked and then replaced the filters, added water through the filter, let it run without the filter. The jets seem to work great and I've opened them all up. It's in STD mode, not ECN or SLP

I opened up the side panel this morning and took a look and did a quick video of when it's trying to go into its normal filter mode.


Something doesn't sound right with the circulator pump, but would love some thoughts from the real experts here.

-Paul B.

Hot Tub
Tropic Seas Spas, 6 person, 330 gallons
 
That pump does not power the "jets" but will have a limited return system.
Turn off breaker and slightly loosen the union on the top of the pump to release any trapped air. Tighten when water flows without gurgling sounds.
If that's not it, I'd say it's time to remove the pump for testing. Check impeller for debris.
 
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Thanks for the help @RDspaguy ! I tried loosening the unions on the pump (top and left side). With each of them, I didn't hear any air. It just seemed to be all water, no gurgles.

I took the pump out and took a look. There's a short video here:


The impeller wasn't easily turning when I opened it up. Didn't see any debris, but also wasn't sure how to take the plastic part off to get to the heart of it. It felt like the impeller was wobbly. Not sure if it's supposed to be like that. I think you can see it in the video.

Appreciate the continued help!
 
Yeah, those are a magnetic drive, there is no motor shaft. The impeller "floats" on a magnetic field, so any small debris, even a hairball, can imbalance it and cause it to lock up. If there is no air lock or debris it's probably the pump.
 
OK, I was able to get the plastic housing off and look at it. It's totally messed up (see pics). Looks like whatever metal "cup" like piece surrounding the pole in the center got some kind of damage and has been ripping out to the point where it is now.

I'm pretty sure that's why the pump isn't working. :-(

Are there recommendations on the forum for equipment? Should I look at replacing with the same model or try to upgrade to something different? I'm not thinking that motor could be salvaged. The replacement job looks straightforward.

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