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.

What is the Best Swim Spa for You?

05 September

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What is the Best Swim Spa?

Bullfrog Spas | Buying & Research Guide, Comparisons & Reviews, Swim Spas | No comment

Since not all swim spas are created equally, purchasing a swim spa might feel like a big decision. After all, your purchase should be considered a lifestyle investment. We invest in gym equipment and memberships, cars, boats, and recreational vehicles—why wouldn’t we invest in a swim spa that can have a big impact on our overall health and wellness?

Ideally, the spa you choose will be one that functions dually as both a swimming pool where you can exercise and a spa or hot tub where you can recover. It should also be of high quality to ensure that you’re getting the most bang for your buck. But how do you know which spa is the best one for you?

What Makes the Best Swim Spa?

Here are a few details to consider when you are trying to decide on the best spa for you.

Size

What is the size of the area where your swim spa will be installed? Take exact measurements of your chosen space in order to be sure you are looking at spas that are within those parameters. Especially if you have a limited amount of space.

Purpose

For what purpose are you purchasing a swim spa? Model types and sizes vary according to the buyer’s performance and feature needs. Will you be using your spa for exercise? For physical therapy? For relaxation? Perhaps you’d like a premium model that can handle all of these things and more. Or maybe you’re looking for something simple, with fewer functions and more affordability. Decide your optimal needs before choosing your ultimate spa.

Budget

What is the range of budget you intend to spend? Swim spa pricing can vary from $7,000 to $45,000 and up, depending on the manufacturer, features, size, and other options, with most quality swim spas being in the $26,000+ range. It’s a good idea to keep your budget in mind before you begin looking, so you can be sure you are looking at the models and options that are affordable for you. Luckily, swim spas are generally much more affordable than the cost of a swimming pool while also having the additional benefits that a hot tub provides.

Age of Users

What is the age range of the people who will be using your swim spa? Are you looking for a spa for just yourself? For yourself and your spouse? What about children or aging visitors?

Depending on the features you choose, your spa can benefit family members of any age by providing a gentle current where your family can swim, relax, float, and exercise all in one multi-functional pool.

Number of Users

How many people will be using it at once? Will the primary purpose of your swim spa be therapy for one? Quality time for two? Bonding time for a family of six? The number of people might affect the size of the swim spa you’re choosing, so be sure to keep that in mind as well.

Most Popular Styles of Swim Spas

Single Water Volumes

Most swim spas have a single volume tub, in which all the water is set to one temperature. Some are dedicated solely to swimming, but others allow for both a swimming lane and relaxing seats with spa jets.

With Current

Most swim spas are designed for the purpose of swimming in place, and in order to maximize usage for small spaces, they are designed with a current that the swimmer can swim against. Each swim spa might offer a different type of current, powered by jets or other motorized propellers. The Bullfrog Spas Swim Series comes equipped with a number of pre-programmed current settings that offer a number of excellent workout options.

Without Current

These spas are designed for low-impact aerobic exercise, physical therapy, and strength building. They don’t provide a current to swim against and so are more limited for swimmers looking to build endurance.

Dedicated Swim Spa

Swim spas without any seats are made to be dedicated solely to swimming and often don’t provide the jets that usually define it as a spa or hot tub. These are still often made and sold by spa companies, just as a different functionality option.

Multiple Water Volumes

Some swim spas come with two sections, with one often dedicated as a hot tub space and the other as a swim lane. Often these sections can be set at different temperatures, enabling the spa to function dually for both purposes at the same time.

Best Swim Spa on the Market

Watch the video to learn how Flora Duffy uses her S200 after her training and for her recovery.

The best swim spas have premium features, room to swim and exercise, and provide therapeutic, personalized jets. With the launch of the new Bullfrog Spas Swim Series, these belongs in the conversation. Consider testing one at your closest Bullfrog Spas authorized swim spa dealer.

Best Swim Spa for the Money

If you’re looking for the best bang for your buck (and let’s face it, who isn’t?) it’s important that you consider not just the upfront cost, but the quality and durability over time. If you go with a cheap option now, you’ll likely be paying for it later with high maintenance costs. As you search for the right swim spa model, consider the new Bullfrog Spas Swim Series. Bullfrog Spas’ patented JetPak Therapy System allows you to personalize your swim spa with jets that benefit you the most. This gives your spa a true dual purpose, which you can’t get from other swim spas. And they’re surprisingly affordable.

It’s not the same as a swimming pool or exactly like a regular spa. In fact, choosing a swim spa gives you the best of both worlds. Aside from improving the aesthetic of your backyard, your swim spa offers health benefits such as:

hydrotherapy
increased circulation
relief from aches and pains
low-impact aerobic exercise
reduced stress
better sleep
weight loss

In addition to the health benefits, a swim spa is a great place for children to learn to swim under the supervision of a responsible adult and can be used year-round, unlike most regular pools. Not only that, but in the long term, high-quality, portable swim spas tend to be more energy efficient, so they won’t overtax your power bill.

Best Swim Spa for Exercise

If you’re in it for the workout, you’re going to want to pay close attention to the resistance current options offered by each spa. For instance, the Bullfrog Spas Swim Series spas offer a number of pre-programmed workout options, as well as the ability to create your own customized workout. The angle of the jets makes it easier to stay in your lane and remain horizontal, optimizing your form and lengthening your stroke. You can also take advantage of the optional fitness kit with an adjustable row bar and resistance bands for your arms or legs.

Best Swim Spa for Family Fun

What features will best benefit your family? The Bullfrog Spas Swim Series features a one-of-a-kind splash pad for the little ones to play on, along with plenty of floating space to kick around on a tube. Or, invest in our favorite accessory, the zero-gravity hammock, which can be used by swimmers of any size, for a relaxing, cool floating experience. The Swim Series can comfortably seat nine to thirteen people, with four JetPak therapy seats, two lounge seats, and multiple bench options.

Best Swim Spa for Cold Climates

The best part about choosing a swim spa over an in-ground pool is the ability to use it year-round, despite cold weather climates that might require closing a regular pool for the winter. Your Bullfrog Swim Spa can be set to whatever temperature feels the most comfortable for you, and as long as you utilize the cover after each use, should easily maintain that water temperature, regardless of the changing of seasons. Live in a particularly cold area? No problem. Your Swim Series stays warm all the time!

Bullfrog Spas Swim Series is well insulated, is built with an advanced plumbing design to save energy, has a strong exterior cabinet that is built to withstand all types of weather, and comes standard with a high-quality cover that keeps heat in and cold out.

Bullfrog Spas Swim Series Models

S180XD

The S180XD is 15 feet long and extra deep, with a unique seating layout that prioritizes space for those who take swimming and fitness seriously, without sacrificing therapy, a variety of seating, and built-in fun. Relish your time soaking and swimming in this multi-functional backyard water experience. You don’t have to be a world-class swimmer to use the customizable swim-current system. The unique orientation of swim jets, one near the surface and one angled up from below, creates a current shape that helps keep your body and legs horizontal and in the swim lane for easier use and more effective workouts. This versatile swim spa offers an attractive mix of functional, fun, and aesthetically appealing features, and is equipped with the one-of-a-kind JetPak Therapy System that is unique to Bullfrog Spas models. Enjoy multi-level therapy seats, ergonomic headrests, and leg and foot therapy, or take advantage of unlimited options for fitness and water play.

S200

Relish your time soaking and swimming in this multi-functional backyard water experience. This versatile swim spa offers an attractive mix of functional, fun, and aesthetically appealing features, and is equipped with the one-of-a-kind JetPak Therapy System. Enjoy multi-level therapy seats, ergonomic headrests, and leg and foot therapy, or take advantage of unlimited options for fitness and water play. The functional layout appeals to families, those looking for premium therapy, and fitness enthusiasts alike, all packaged into one truly remarkable spa.

S150

Build endurance and strength with preset or customizable fitness programs and space for any number of low-impact, water-based workouts. Swim, play games, or splash around on the splash pad. Workout, play, or relax away tension. Enjoy the numerous therapy options available with the patented JetPak Therapy System™, the attractive aesthetics, functional layout, and legendary Bullfrog Spas quality and reliability for an upgraded backyard experience you’re certain to love.

Swim Spa Reviews

“We were in the market for a Swim Spa for our family of 4 and were underwhelmed with the models available from other companies, we felt they look dated and were not suitable for a leisure use. The Bullfrog Spas S150 came within 2 weeks of us ordering it! We have been loving everything about it. It’s perfect for hanging out and the jets are great!! It has a modern, sleek look that fits nicely into our yard. Customer service from Bullfrog has been amazing and fast. I highly recommend!” – Sheri N.

“A wonderful experience!! From relaxing to playing and exercising, we enjoy all aspects. The grandchildren love the play space. Using the swim jets to move them around. Jumping, diving, expelling energy. The JetPak areas are well designed to give a unique experience in every station. AND we LOVE the hammock!!!” – Pete J.

“I love my Bullfrog Swim Spa. Admittedly I am not the best of swimmers and yet within 5 minutes of swimming in this swim spa I found my rhythm and stayed in the middle of the spa without issue. The harness also works well to keep me from going too fast. Lots of seating for friends and family and the kids love all the water features. ” – Mark M.

Personalize Your Swim Spa

Purchasing a swim spa isn’t just an investment; it’s a lifestyle change that will benefit your entire family. Only you can decide if a swim spa is a good investment for you. Use our online Design Studio tool to select your model, JetPaks, and accessories. Once you’re done, you’ll receive an instant price quote.

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.

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