Why do the jets in my whirlpool spa hot tub keep pulsating?

The spa jets are a key part of a comfortable massage. Normally, the jets will continue to spray a steady stream of water, but many users may experience a sudden "pulsation" phenomenon in the jets: the water flow becomes strong and weak, as if it is constantly spraying intermittently. This phenomenon not only affects the massage experience, but may also indicate some potential problems inside the whirlpool spa hot tub.

This article will give you a detailed analysis of the causes of pulsation, focusing on filters, air locks, pipe blockages, etc., to help you determine the cause of the whirlpool spa hot tub problem and provide corresponding solutions.

Why do the spa jets in my whirlpool spa hot tub keep pulsating?

In most cases, the pulsation of the whirlpool spa hot tub jets can be attributed to a series of problems in the water flow system. Here are a few possible causes:

1. The whirlpool spa hot tub filter is blocked or worn

The filter of the whirlpool spa hot tub is responsible for removing impurities from the water to keep the water clean. When the filter is clogged, the water flow will be affected, resulting in discontinuous water flow from the nozzle and pulsation.

● Blockage: A whirlpool spa hot tub filter that has not been cleaned for a long time may accumulate a lot of dirt or debris, which restricts the flow of water. This blockage will cause the water flow to become weak or even intermittent, which will cause the nozzle to pulsate.

● Wear: After long-term use, the filter material will gradually wear and the filtering effect will decrease. Some parts may even fall off or break, which will affect the stability of the water flow.

Solution: Clean and check the whirlpool spa hot tub filter regularly to ensure that it is unobstructed. If the filter surface is damaged or worn, it is recommended to replace it in time.

2. Whirlpool spa hot tub air lock problem

The spa system of the whirlpool spa hot tub should remain closed when the water pump is working, but if air enters the water flow, a "gas lock" phenomenon will occur, that is, the gas blocks the water flow channel, resulting in poor water flow. In this case, the water pump will encounter resistance, the water flow becomes intermittent or unstable, and the nozzle pulsates.

Solution: For air lock problems, you can usually open the whirlpool spa hot tub's bleed valve to release the air in the system, or restart the pump to stabilize the water flow and return to normal.

3. The power of the whirlpool spa hot tub pump is unstable

The power of the whirlpool spa hot tub pump directly affects the pressure and stability of the water flow. If the power of the pump fluctuates, the water flow will fluctuate, causing the nozzle to pulsate. The reasons for the unstable pump may include unstable power supply, aging of the pump, poor line contact, etc.

Solution: Check the power connection of the pump to ensure that the line is normal and avoid power fluctuations. For older pumps, professional maintenance or replacement may be required.

4. The water flow channel or nozzle is blocked

The water flow channel of the spa nozzle is usually narrow and easily blocked by dirt, mineral deposits, leaves or debris. The pulsation phenomenon will be more obvious, especially when it is not cleaned regularly during use.

● Mineral deposition: After calcium, magnesium and other minerals in the water are deposited on the inner wall of the nozzle, the water flow channel will gradually narrow, causing the water flow to weaken.

● Debris blockage: Leaves, hair or other debris entering the pipe will also cause local blockage and affect the continuity of the water flow.

Solution: Keep the water flow channel unobstructed through regular cleaning and the use of descaling agents. If the nozzle is found to be blocked, it can be removed and thoroughly cleaned.

5. Improper adjustment of the water flow valve

Some whirlpool spa hot tub nozzles are equipped with a regulating valve to control the intensity and direction of the water flow. If the valve is not fully opened or improperly adjusted, the water flow will become uneven, causing the nozzle to pulsate.

Solution: Check whether the regulating valve of the nozzle is in the fully open state. Adjust the valve if necessary to ensure smooth water flow and restore normal water flow to the nozzle.

How to determine whether the filter is the source of the problem?

The filter is an important part of the whirlpool spa hot tub water flow system. If there is a problem with the filter, it may cause the nozzle to pulsate. But how to confirm whether the pulsation phenomenon is caused by the filter problem? The following methods can help users make a preliminary judgment:

1. Observe whether the water flow returns to normal after turning off the filter

When the water flow through the filter is turned off, the water flow of the nozzle can be directly observed. If the water flow returns to normal after turning off the filter, it means that the whirlpool spa hot tub filter is indeed blocked.

2. Check the appearance of the filter

If the surface of the whirlpool spa hot tub filter is covered with dirt, debris or damaged, it may be the root cause of the pulsation phenomenon. At this time, clean or replace the filter.

3. Use a water pressure test tool

Connect the water pressure test tool to the filter outlet to check whether the water pressure meets the standard. If the water pressure is insufficient, the water flow may be blocked by the filter.

What are the steps to solve the pulsation problem of the whirlpool spa hot tub nozzle?

1. Clean or replace the filter

Take out the whirlpool spa hot tub filter, clean its surface with warm water and remove the accumulated dirt with a soft brush. It is recommended to use a special filter cleaning agent and clean it regularly to ensure that the filter remains unobstructed for a long time. If the filter is found to be damaged, it should be replaced in time.

2. Eliminate air and air lock

Release air from the system by opening the exhaust valve or repeatedly starting the water pump. In addition, check the water inlet and outlet of the water pump to ensure that there are no bubbles in the water flow channel.

3. Check the power supply of the water pump

Check the power supply of the water pump and ensure that the line connection is stable. Eliminate the influence of power fluctuations on the power of the water pump, and replace old or damaged cables if necessary to keep the water pump working stably.

4. Clean the nozzle and water flow channel

Remove the nozzle, remove the dirt and mineral deposits inside, and ensure that the water flow channel is unobstructed. Use whirlpool spa hot tub descaling agent to remove mineral deposits and avoid narrowing of the channel.

5. Adjust the valve

Make sure all regulating valves are fully open to allow the water flow to reach the normal level. Fine-tune the opening and closing of the valve according to personal needs to obtain the appropriate water flow intensity.

How to avoid pulsation of whirlpool spa hot tub nozzles?

1. Clean the filter regularly

The cleaning cycle of the whirlpool spa hot tub filter is usually once every two weeks. Regular cleaning or replacement of the filter can effectively prevent water blockage and thus avoid pulsation.

2. Keep the water clean

Clean water can reduce the accumulation of dirt and impurities and extend the service life of the water pump and filter. Use whirlpool spa hot tub cleaners and water treatment chemicals to keep the water clean and reduce the chance of pulsation.

3. Regularly maintain the pump and pipes

The pump and pipes of the whirlpool spa hot tub should be inspected and maintained regularly, especially when used frequently. Regular maintenance helps to keep the pump power stable and prevent problems such as air lock and blockage.

4. Use soft water

If the water source at home is hard water, it is recommended to install a soft water system to reduce mineral deposition. After the minerals in the hard water are deposited on the whirlpool spa hot tub nozzle and the inner wall of the water flow channel, it will affect the smoothness of the water flow and increase the possibility of pulsation.

Lovia Spa, a renowned manufacturer of outdoor hot tubs, swim spas, and spa covers, has been in the business since 1989. With a production capacity of 1,200 units per month and over 200 skilled workers, we ensure that every product meets the highest standards of quality. Our wholesale options and customized designs cater to a variety of customers. Looking for affordable spas? Lovia Spa offers low prices without compromising on quality. Buy from the best supplier for your spa needs.