Why is my spa overheating?

If the spa is located in an area that is experiencing hot weather, it is normal to have the spa water temperature rise. To help keep your spa cooler, adjust the spa’s filtration cycles to no more than three hours per day, and only one hour per day during the warmer summer months. Set the cycles to run during later evening or early morning hours when the outside air temperature is cooler. During the summer, set only one filter cycle per day. Open the cover for several minutes, long enough to allow the water to cool down. Repeat a couple times weekly as necessary. For safety reasons, never leave your spa unattended with the cover open. If OHH is displayed on the control panel, this means that the thermometer has detected spa water temperature above 110 degrees F. Do not use the spa at this temperature. Take the advised steps above to cool your spa water to below 106 degrees F before use.

Why won't my spa heat?

If your spa temperature is low, first check the thermostat to see if it has been turned down or set to low heat range. Adjust the thermostat to desired temperature or set to high heat range. Another common reason for your spa temperature to be low is because the high limit sensor has tripped. Press any button on your control panel to reset the system. If neither of the above steps works, your heating system may be defective. Contact your authorized Bullfrog Spas Dealer for further diagnosis.

Why is my GFCI breaker tripping?

Warning: You must be a qualitied electrician and or service technician to perform diagnosing or serial injury or death can result: High voltage components are in use. If the spa was recently installed, the most common reason the GFCI would trip is the Load Neutral (white wire) between the spa and GFCI which must be connected to the Load Neutral port in the GFCI breaker. If the neutral wire is connected to the neutral busbar, the breaker will trip during startup. The neutral connection must not have contact to the ground on the load side of the breaker or it will trip. If the spa is not tripping immediately upon startup, a process of elimination should be used to identify the problem. Disconnect one component at a time from the control board and try restarting the spa. If the breaker trips, reconnect the component then try again by disconnecting a different component. Continue repeating this process until the breaker does not trip. Components include pumps, heaters, lights, stereos, ozone, etc. If the breaker does not trip after disconnecting the component, then the disconnected component is the source of the problem. Once you have determined which component is at fault, replace the component. If you have not found the source of the problem after disconnecting each spa component individually, disconnect all components from the control board and try starting the spa. If the breaker still trips, a certified electrician will need to inspect the breaker and wiring.

Why is my spa making a vibration noise?

A light vibration noise is normal while the spa pumps and motors are running. If your spa’s vibration noise level seems excessive, the first thing to check for is the spa motor’s shipping bolts. Each spa motor has a shipping bolt that can contribute to the vibrating noise and can be removed once your spa is delivered and installed. The bolts have tags with red lettering for easy identification. If the bolts have been removed and your spa still makes an excessive vibration noise, contact your spa dealer for further assistance.

Why is my spa pump creating a burning smell or making excessive noise?

If your spa pump is creating a burning smell or making excessive noise, the pump motor is defective. This can happen when running the pump during high ambient outside temperatures or due to excessive run times. Please contact your authorized Bullfrog Spas dealer for replacing the pump.

Why are my control pad and spa equipment not operating?

If your hot tub control pad and spa equipment are not operating, that means you have no electrical power to the spa. Turn on or reset the GFCI circuit breaker to supply the spa with power again. If this does not solve the problem, have a qualified Electrician check the electrical service for issues. Another reason your control pad and equipment won’t work is if the fuse (20 or 30A depending on the system) has blown. Contact your authorized Bullfrog Spas Dealer for repair/replacement.

Why are my hot tub jets not working?

If your hot tub jets are surging on and off, the first thing to check is your water level as it might be too low. Adjust water to the water level indication mark on the faceplate of the filter assembly. Next, check your filters as they may be dirty. If so, clean or replace them. If your spa’s jets seem weak or are not working, first double-check to make sure that the valves are open. JetPaks have valves at the bottom that open and close by turning the valve. Adjustable jets on M Series, A Series, R Series, and STIL spas open and close by turning the jet face. Adjustable jets on X Series spas open and close by turning the outer ring. The next thing to check is the suction fitting(s) normally located at the bottom of your spa shell to see if they are blocked. Remove any debris you find by hand or with a spa vacuum. If your jets are not working after filling your spa, you most likely have an airlock in the pump. Follow the directions in the “how do I fix an airlock in the pump” section below.

Why won’t my spa won't work after draining and refilling it?

If your spa pumps/jets are not working after filling your spa, you most likely have an airlock in the pumps. Follow the directions in the “how do I fix an airlock in the pump” section below.

How do I fix an airlock in the pump?

To prevent airlocks when filling your spa, be sure to open all valves in the JetPaks and all other jets in the spa before filling to allow as much air as possible to escape from the system during the filling process. Fill your spa through the filter by taking the filter cap off and put the hose directly in the filter. Detailed instructions for filling each spa series are found in your owner’s manual. Your hot tub’s pumps must be primed directly after filling to ensure correct operation of your spa and get rid of any airlocks. After initial startup, verify that the home status screen appears on the panel. Depending on your spa model, your spa has either 1,2, or 3 pumps. To prime the pumps, press the “Jets 1” button once to prime in low-speed. After the pump turns on and water is visibly flowing from the jets wait a few seconds and then press “Jets 1” again to initiate highspeed operation of Pump 1. The pump has primed when water is flowing from the jets. If your spa is equipped with a second jet pump, repeat the priming process for Pump 2 by pressing the “Jets 2” button once to turn on low speed and then a second time to turn Pump 2 on high. If your spa has a 3rd pump, press the “Jets 3” button to prime the third jet pump. All pumps will have primed when water is observed flowing from the jets associated with each pump. On rare occasions, priming the pumps will not get rid of an airlock. The next step is to remove the front panel and locate the pump with an airlock. The wet-end of the pump has a bleed valve—loosen this until all the air escapes and water starts to drip out, or loosen the union on the pump to let the air out until you see water. Do not attempt this while the spa pump is running. If you need help doing this or this does not resolve the problem, please contact your authorized Bullfrog Spa Dealer.

Why do my spa jets turn off during operation?

If your jets turn off automatically after either 30 or 60 minutes, this is completely normal. The automatic timer has completed its cycle. Simply turn the pump back on to start a new cycle. Another reason your jets can turn off unexpectedly is if the pump has overheated due to the vents on the equipment door being blocked. Clear away any items from the vents and wait a while to see if your jets work again. The last reason your spa jets can turn off is if the pump motor is defective. In this case, contact your authorized Bullfrog Spas dealer for service.

Why are my hot tub jets/pump not turning off?

If you are trying to turn off the pump for jets 1 on your spa and it appears that they are not turning off, your spa is in the middle of a filtration cycle. Spas not equipped with a dedicated filtration pump will turn on automatically, using jet pump 1 on low speed, to filter and/or heat. This is normal spa operation.

What do I do if my spa is leaking?

If you notice your spa is losing water, check all fittings and equipment in the equipment compartment for the source of leakage. If a leak is detected, tighten the fitting by hand. If the leak persists, you cannot find the source of the leak, or the leak is coming from the shell, contact your authorized Bullfrog Spas Dealer.

How to Clean, Maintain, & Replace a Hot Tub Filter

24 May

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How to Clean, Maintain, & Replace a Hot Tub Filter

Bullfrog Spas | Maintenance & Water Care, Ownership | 8 Comments

Ensuring proper maintenance of your hot tub filter is essential for a clean and enjoyable hot tub experience. Just like the air filter in a car, the hot tub filter plays a crucial role in trapping particles and contaminants, keeping the water pristine. However, as time goes by, the filter gradually becomes clogged and loses its efficiency. That’s why we have put together this comprehensive guide, providing you with step-by-step instructions on how to effectively clean and replace your hot tub filters, maximizing their lifespan and maintaining optimal performance.

The Importance of Hot Tub Filter Maintenance

To truly understand the importance of filter maintenance, it’s necessary to grasp how the filter functions. Composed of fibrous fabric, the hot tub filter acts as a barrier, capturing debris as water flows through it. However, as dirt and debris accumulate over time, the filter becomes obstructed, leading to a decrease in its effectiveness. By adhering to a regular maintenance routine, you can ensure that your filter remains clear of impurities and continues to provide you with clean water, creating the perfect environment for a relaxing hot tub experience.

Different Types of Bullfrog Spas Filters

Bullfrog Spas currently features two types of filters to cater to different spa models and meet specific filtration needs. The first type is the Simplicity Flat Filters, which are utilized in A Series spas (2023 and onward), Swim Series Spas, and M Series Spas. The second type is the traditional pleated cylindrical filter cartridges, which are used in A Series Spas (2022 and prior), R Series spas, X Series spas, and STIL spas. Depending on which spa and filters you have, the maintenance schedule and instructions differ. Be sure to follow the instructions for your specific spa.

Simplicity™ Flat Filter Cleaning and Maintenance

A Series Spas (2023 and onward), Swim Series Spas, and M Series Spas

It is recommended that the pleated flat Simplicity filter be cleaned or replaced every 4 weeks, or sooner if needed. You may prefer to simply replace monthly, or Simplicity filters can be cleaned by spraying along the pleats from one side of the filter to the other with a garden hose and nozzle, then rinsing thoroughly. Even with regular cleaning, Simplicity filters will eventually become less effective and should be replaced at least every 12-16 weeks.

Steps for Cleaning and Replacing:

Step 1: Turn off main power to the spa.

Step 2: Remove the JetPak in front of the Simplicity filter housing (this is the first JetPak to the right of main control)

Step 3: Remove the Simplicity Filter holder. Reach down into the jet pod and grasp the handle. Push toward the inside of the spa and lift up to remove from the housing. Place the unit on a flat surface with the filter facing up.

Step 4: Remove and replace the filter. To remove the Simplicity Filter, compress the pleats and push forward. Lift the edge of the filter past the capture tab. This will allow you to lift the used filter from the filter holder. Clean filter by spraying along the pleats from one side of the filter to the other with a garden hose and nozzle, then rinsing thoroughly. Replace the filter. Orient the filter media with the glue lines facing upward. Slide one end of the filter under the retention tabs, and then press in and down to tuck the remainder of the filter into the frame.

Step 5: Reinstall the Simplicity Filter holder back into the pod, by aligning the bottom of the unit in the housing with the handle up and snap the filtration unit into place in the housing with a back and down motion.

Step 6: Replace the JetPak.

Step 7: Restore the main power to the spa.

Cylindrical Filter Cleaning and Maintenance

A Series Spas (2022 & prior), R Series Spas, X Series Spas, and STIL Spas

It is recommended that pleated cylindrical filter cartridges be cleaned every 3-6 weeks or as needed. Spas equipped with the optional circulation pump system may require increased cleaning intervals based on use and local water conditions. These filters are typically replaced every 1-2 years depending on spa use.

Steps for Cleaning and Replacing:

Step 1: Turn off main power to the spa.

Step 2: Remove filter cap and filter plate.

Step 3: Remove the pleated cartridge(s) by turning the filtercore cap(s) counter clockwise then sliding the cartridge(s) upward from the filter core.

Step 4: Using a garden hose with a nozzle or other high pressure device, clean cartridge(s). Work first from the inside, top to bottom on each pleat then from the outside, top to bottom on each pleat. To remove collected lotions or body oils, soak cartridge(s) in warm water with a filter cleaner or detergent. To remove calcium deposits, soak cartridge(s) in a plastic container using a 1:10 ratio of muriatic acid to water solution. Calcium deposits indicate a high spa pH, which should be corrected. NOTE: Filter(s) must be cleaned with a filter cleaner/degreaser before attempting to remove calcium and mineral deposits with any acidic based product. Using a brush to clean a filter cartridge could cause damage to the filter media.

Step 5: Reinstall cartridges(s) by aligning the cartridge slot with the filter core fin; reinstall the filter core cap(s), filter plate, and filter cap.

Step 6: Restore main power to the spa.

Key Takeaways

In conclusion, maintaining your hot tub filter is vital for ensuring a clean and enjoyable spa experience. Regularly cleaning or replacing the filters helps to prevent debris buildup and maintains the filter’s efficiency in removing impurities from the water. Bullfrog Spas offers different types of filters, so it is essential to follow the specific maintenance instructions for your spa model.

Enjoy the benefits of crystal-clear water and a pristine hot tub environment by prioritizing your hot tub filter’s care.

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AUTHOR - Bullfrog Spas

Bullfrog Spas is a premier brand of personalized premium hot tubs. With proprietary hydromassage technology and an eye for contemporary design, Bullfrog Spas is revolutionizing the concept of the portable hot tub and providing a relaxation experience unlike any other. Discover the award winning spa of the future today.

8 Comments

gene nelson | Feb 18, 2019 at 9:07 am

can you explain the status codes on the A7 series. does it show trouble or just status
- Bullfrog Spas | Feb 19, 2019 at 9:02 am
  
  Thanks for the question. This would depend on the model year. You can access owner’s manuals for specific years and refer to the section for A Series spas here: https://www.bullfrogspas.com/manuals
Randy McAlpin | Jun 2, 2019 at 2:15 pm

Hello,

Get signs of alge from jets, filters clean. Not sure what to do. Also rubber head rest faded extremely bad, ant suggestions
- Bullfrog Spas | Jun 3, 2019 at 9:23 am
  
  It sounds like your sanitizer is potentially not being effective. Chlorine is more effective against algae than bromine or other sanitizers like ozone or hydrogen peroxide. You may try adjusting your sanitizer type or regimen to ensure better performance. Check with your Authorized Dealer for their suggestions in your area for your water type.
Bill Cookson | Nov 23, 2019 at 5:46 am

I have a 682 spa purchased in 2005, the spa has not had water in it for the last five years. The jet packs have a thin coating on the back side that looks like it may come loose when it is hydrated. Is there a product that will remove this film?
- Lance Hansen | Nov 25, 2019 at 10:07 am
  
  Great question. There are 3 great solutions to help you get rid of that film.
  You could use:
  
  Lysol
  Glass cleaner
  Magic eraser
  
  Enjoy the spa!
Tim Barnes | May 23, 2020 at 7:36 am

How do you clean under the cup holder lights with out removing the lights? There is some buildup of black mold.
- Lance Hansen | May 26, 2020 at 7:51 pm
  
  Tim great great question! If you remove the side panel you can undo the nut holding the cupholder down. That gives you the opportunity to raise it a little and clean underneath.

Blog

How to Clean, Maintain, & Replace a Hot Tub Filter

The Importance of Hot Tub Filter Maintenance

Different Types of Bullfrog Spas Filters

Simplicity™ Flat Filter Cleaning and Maintenance

A Series Spas (2023 and onward), Swim Series Spas, and M Series Spas

Steps for Cleaning and Replacing:

Cylindrical Filter Cleaning and Maintenance

A Series Spas (2022 & prior), R Series Spas, X Series Spas, and STIL Spas

Steps for Cleaning and Replacing:

Key Takeaways

Additional Resources

AUTHOR - Bullfrog Spas

gene nelson | Feb 18, 2019 at 9:07 am

Bullfrog Spas | Feb 19, 2019 at 9:02 am

Randy McAlpin | Jun 2, 2019 at 2:15 pm

Bullfrog Spas | Jun 3, 2019 at 9:23 am

Bill Cookson | Nov 23, 2019 at 5:46 am

Lance Hansen | Nov 25, 2019 at 10:07 am

Tim Barnes | May 23, 2020 at 7:36 am

Lance Hansen | May 26, 2020 at 7:51 pm

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