Why Is My Hot Tub Making A Buzzing Noise?
Hot tubs are just like household appliances in that the noises they make can tell you a lot about their condition. That’s why you may understandably feel concerned when your hot tub makes a sound that you don’t typically hear. So, why is my hot tub making a buzzing noise?
Your hot tub may be buzzing because the capacitor is bad and must be replaced. There may also be debris in the pump or air trapped in the plumbing, which you must release to fix the problem. It’s also worth checking the pump to see if it’s loose and tightening or replacing the bearings as needed.
Don’t panic if you hear your hot tub buzzing, as it rarely requires major repairs. The worst-case scenario is that you must replace the capacitor or pump. Follow along as we explore why your hot tub is making a buzzing noise and highlight easy fixes.
Why Is My Hot Tub Buzzing?
1. Loose Bearings
Hot tubs rely on pumps to circulate the water and make it feel comfortable. Pumps have bearings that reduce friction and allow for a smooth performance. Over time, the bearings can become loose or damaged due to years of use.
Many people assume their pumps are the problem, when it’s the bearings that are to blame. This is the best-case scenario, as it’s cheaper and easier to replace bearings than the heat pump itself. Carefully remove the bearings.
Pay attention to the size and type of bearings to ensure you replace them with the correct ones. Install new bearings, run your hot tub, and see if the buzzing sounds continue.
2. Faulty Pump
A faulty pump can explain the buzzing sounds in your hot tub. The pump in your hot tub circulates the water and is responsible for the jets running. Eventually, the pump can get knocked loose due to normal wear and tear.
Once this happens, it may rub against other surfaces and create a buzzing sound. Turn the hot tub off and shut off its power from the breaker, so you can safely inspect the pump. Move the pump back to its original position if it has been knocked out of place.
Otherwise, inspect the pump’s bearings and tighten them as needed if they are loose. Check the housing for loose screws and tighten them. Inspect the pump and its housing for cracks while you’re there.
3. Debris In The Pump
Hot tubs are susceptible to lots of debris when you leave them uncovered. It may seem innocent when the debris lands on the water’s surface, but it can wind up in the plumbing. Eventually, said debris can get into the pump and cause complications.
That may be why your hot tub is buzzing or rattling, and luckily, it’s an easy fix. Whether it be bugs or leaves, you must remove the debris to ensure your pump works at full capacity. First, you must turn off your hot tub and shut off its power from the circuit breaker.
Next, you must access the pump and inspect the impeller. Carefully scrub the impeller with a soft brush and remove the debris as needed. Wash the pump with mild dish soap and water, rinse it, and put the pump back in place.
4. Trapped Air
A hot tub’s plumbing is prone to many problems, and that includes trapped air. Air can get trapped in your hot tub’s lines and create a blockage. The trapped air can prevent your hot tub’s jets from working properly.
Trapped air is especially common when you drain and refill your hot tub. Luckily, this is easier to fix than lines that are clogged with mold and algae. However, you must get rid of the air pockets before your pump and jets can work again.
To do this, you must shut your hot tub off and access the pump. Carefully loosen some of the union screws on the pump to let the trapped air escape the line. Wait a moment, tighten the screws, run your hot tub, and the buzzing noise should stop.
5. Bad Capacitor
Hot tubs rely on capacitors to start their motors. Without a working capacitor, your hot tub’s motor won’t start and the unit won’t run. However, capacitors often show signs of problems before they go out, such as buzzing sounds.
This is often accompanied by slow speeds and weak performance. Luckily, it’s cheaper to replace a hot tub capacitor than a pump or motor. You can replace the capacitor without professional help for $50 or less if you buy the part.
However, this is difficult if you have limited experience with that level of hot tub maintenance. You can expect to spend up to $200 extra if you hire an experienced technician to replace the part.
What Does A Bad Hot Tub Pump Sound Like?
You can tell something is wrong with your hot tub’s pump if it makes a loud rattling sound. The sound is typically metallic and almost sounds like someone is using power tools within your hot tub. Weak circulation from the jets can also indicate something is wrong with the pump.
The pump may be broken altogether if there is no circulation in your hot tub. Pumps sometimes last the lifespan of a hot tub, but only with routine maintenance. Otherwise, you may have to replace your hot tub’s pump after just 5 to 10 years.
You can help protect your hot tub’s pump if you regularly clean the filter. The best way to clean the filter is to spray it with a hose once per week to dislodge debris. Replace the filter each year to ensure the best performance and protect the other components.
Summing It Up
Your hot tub may be making a buzzing noise because air is trapped in the plumbing. In that case, you must release the trapped air by loosening the pump’s union screws, and the buzzing should stop. Otherwise, you may need to replace the capacitor or replace the motor’s bearings to stop the buzzing noise.
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Nick Durante is a professional writer with a primary focus on home improvement. When he is not writing about home improvement or taking on projects around the house, he likes to read and create art. He is always looking towards the newest trends in home improvement.
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