Why Isn’t My Spa Pool Heating? Common Causes and How to Prevent Them
Looking forward to a warm, relaxing soak — but your spa pool won’t heat up? You’re not alone. Spa heating issues are one of the most common concerns among spa owners. Sometimes it’s a simple fix, other times it needs a technician’s eye.
Below are five common spa heating problems, followed by some easy tips to help keep your heater running smoothly all year round.
1. The Water Just Won’t Heat Up
This could be due to poor water flow, a failing part, or something more serious. It might seem like the heater is running, but the water stays stubbornly cold. Best not to guess — give us a call and we can help you troubleshoot.
2. The Heater Isn’t Turning On
If the heater isn’t responding at all, it may be a tripped safety switch or an electrical issue. Before diving into DIY fixes, it’s safer to speak with someone who knows spa systems inside and out — like our team at The Spa Shop.
3. The Water Gets Warm… Then Stops
When your spa gets warm but doesn’t stay that way, it may be shutting off too soon. Common culprits include low water levels, air in the plumbing, or a blocked filter. These are warning signs your spa needs a little attention.
4. Error Codes or Warnings on Display
Modern spa pools come with smart displays that tell you when something’s not quite right — but the codes themselves can be confusing. Whether you’re seeing “FLO,” “OH,” or something else, we can help you interpret it and advise the next step.
5. Strange Noises While Heating
Spa heaters should be quiet. If you hear hissing, banging, or bubbling noises, it could be due to build-up or blockages. Ignoring these sounds can lead to bigger problems later on.
Easy Tips to Maintain Your Spa Heater
The good news? Most heater problems can be avoided with a bit of regular maintenance. Here are a few simple ways to take care of your spa:
-
Clean the filter regularly – Dirty filters restrict flow, which affects heating performance. Rinse every week and deep clean with BioGuard Filter Renew monthly.
-
Apply a pipe cleaner every few months – Products like BioGuard Swirl Away help flush out unseen build-up in your plumbing.
-
Check your water levels – Low water can trigger safety shut-offs and cause heating interruptions.
-
Balance your water – Proper pH and calcium levels help prevent scale build-up on the heater element.
-
Book a service check – An annual spa check by a technician keeps your entire system running at its best.
Need Help? Call The Spa Shop
Not sure what’s causing the issue? Give us a call or pop into The Spa Shop. We can help you troubleshoot over the phone or book a technician to inspect your spa. With the right care, your spa heater can last for many years — and we’re here to help make that happen.