How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Hot Tub?
Typical Range:
$164 - $533
Cost data is based on actual project costs as reported by 2,774 HomeAdvisor members. Embed this data
How We Get This Data
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- Homeowners use HomeAdvisor to find pros for home projects.
- When their projects are done, they fill out a short cost survey.
- We compile the data and report costs back to you.
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Updated April 16, 2024
Written by HomeAdvisor.Highlights
Hot tub repairs can be complex, involving electrical issues and significant leaks, necessitating a professional's expertise.
The cost to repair a hot tub ranges from $175 to $500, with replacement parts costing up to $1,000.
The cost of hot tub repair is impacted by the type of repair, replacement parts, labor rates, and potential electrical issues.
Hot tub repair materials include a new pump, jets, spa controller, blower, heating element, and thermostat.
Warning signs for hot tub repair include pump issues, erratic jet function, inconsistent operation, heater failure, and significant leaks.
Repairing a hot tub can prevent more costly damages, maintain water temperature, and extend its life span.
Highlights were summarized from this existing cost guide text using automation technology and were thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
The cost to repair a hot tub is $348, ranging between $164 and $533. The total depends on the problem and whether you need to fix or replace it. Sealing a small crack starts around $100, while replacing a two-speed pump runs up to $1,200.
From time to time, hot tub spas need repairs to replace worn or defective parts. Most problems have several possible causes, hence several possible solutions. Below are some factors to consider that will affect the cost of repair.
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| National Average | $348 |
| Typical Range | $164 - $533 |
| Low End - High End | $95 - $900 |
Cost data is based on actual project costs as reported by 2,774 HomeAdvisor members.
Cost to Repair a Hot Tub by Type of Repair
The price to fix a hot tub ranges from $175 to $500, depending on the problem. Repair may not include replacement parts, which could run up to $1,000.
| Type of Repair | Cost Range | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Pump | $200 - $1,000 | $600 |
| Jets | $75 - $100 | $88 |
| Spa Controller | $200 - $500 | $350 |
| Blower | $100 - $300 | $200 |
| Heater | $150 - $500 | $325 |
| Frame and Cabinet | $150 – $400 | $275 |
| Leak Repair | $200 – $1,500 | $850 |
| Resurfacing | $200 – $400 | $300 |
| Cover | $50 – $75 | $65 |
| Thermostat | $125 – $250 | $190 |
Hot Tub Pump Replacement
Replacing a hot tub motor and pump costs between $200 and $1,200, depending on the type. Circulation models run $200 to $500, not including installation. A hot tub pump costs $750 to $1,200 to replace (two-speed pump).
If you decide your hot tub pump is having problems, you should budget about $200 to $500 for repairs. There are a few common signs the pump is having issues, including:
No water coming out of the jets
No water flowing when the pump is making noise
Water leaking near the pump shaft
Water is not hot
If you notice leaks around the pump, this often indicates a failure of the pump seals. You will likely observe a puddle of water below the pump when these seals fail. You have the option to repair or replace the pump. If it’s showing damage that costs more than $500 to repair, you should think about getting a new one.
Hot Tub Jets
The cost to replace a hot tub jet ranges from $150 to $200 per jet, including $75 to $100 for the part. You’ll know you have a problem if you notice:
Erratic jet function, like popping out or not turning
Low or uneven water pressure
Air in the water lines
In some cases, adding a water softener can prevent issues from returning after repair.
Spa Controller
Replacing your spa controller runs $275 to $650, which includes $200 to $500 for the part. If you notice inconsistent operation of the jets or lighting, this might be the source.
The controller lasts about 10 years, and usually needs replacement after that. If you suspect that the problem lies with the circuit and not the spa, the cost to hire an electrician is $175 to $525.
Hot Tub Blower
The cost to replace a hot tub blower ranges from $175 to $450, including $100 to $300 for the unit. You’ll need repair if you observe any of these issues:
Erratic jet and blower speeds
Wrong voltage
Problems with the air switch
Broken blower
Looking for someone who can actually fix your blower may cost less than replacing it outright. Of course, if your unit is old or damaged beyond repair, a new unit may be the only way to go.
Hot Tub Heater
Hot tub heater replacement cost ranges from $225 to $650, including $150 to $500 for the heating element. These last about 5 years before developing significant issues such as:
Broken or burnt-looking spots
Improper water chemistry
Failing to heat the water
Digital programmer not working
If you can’t see the issue from personal inspection, you’ll need to hire a pro to diagnose and repair the problem.
Hot Tub Frame and Cabinet
The cost to hire a handyperson is $60 to $125 per hour. They can identify weaknesses in the frame and repair them quickly before it ruins your hot tub.
Spa frames and cabinets are usually wood or plastic. Damage to the structure is usually catastrophic, as it can result in a broken shell.
Compare Real Quotes From Hot Tub Repair Pros
Hot Tub Leak Repair
If the shell of the hot tub starts leaking, you will need to spend anywhere from $200 to $1,500 for the repairs. If you have a cabinet, the price will increase to at least $2,000 because it’s harder to get to the frame. In such cases, you might consider replacement over repair.
Hot Tub Resurfacing
Resurfacing a hot tub costs between $200 and $400. While small cracks and holes are patchable with a fiberglass filler or mesh, more extensive damage or widespread crazing requires resurfacing, which is a fairly labor-intensive process. The hot tub is drained and cleaned, and the surface is roughened and prepared, then your pro applies the new finish.
Hot Tub Cover
DIY hot tub cover repair costs $50 to $75. Covers suffer wear over time and can develop holes or small tears that you can repair with a simple DIY patch kit. However, if you choose to have a pro handle the damage, expect to pay between $100 and $150.
Hot Tub Thermostat
Expect to pay between $125 and $250 to repair a hot tub thermostat. This crucial component monitors water temperature and lets the controller know when to start heating and when to stop. If it malfunctions, you won't be able to enjoy the warm waters of your hot tub until you call a local hot tub technician to repair it or fit a new one.
Annual Hot Tub Service Cost
Hot tub service costs $100 to $200 per call, not including repairs. With annual maintenance, professionals can identify problems early on. This can save you money on more expensive work down the road. They will look at:
Tripped breakers
Heating element
Pump and seal
Jet
Structural damage
Before you schedule hot tub repair services near you, be sure to get three quotes.
DIY Hot Tub Repair vs. Hiring a Pro
There are some small repairs you can make yourself to save money and the inconvenience of service callouts. But larger or more complex repairs definitely require hiring a professional hot tub installer.
Simple jobs like changing the filter and keeping on top of water quality are regular maintenance tasks that you can take care of yourself. DIY fixes for minor cracks in the shell only take a few minutes of your time and the cost of sealant (around $10 to $20). You can get a patch kit for tears in your hot tub cover and apply it yourself.
However, if your hot tub has significant leaks, leaks around the jets, isn't heating properly, or any kind of electrical issues, trying a DIY fix could cause bigger issues, so it's important to call a pro.
Hire a Hot Tub Repair Specialist Near You
FAQs
Are hot tubs easy to maintain?
Hot tubs are pretty easy to maintain. If you have a quality tub with good parts, maintenance should take no more than an hour per week with regular use. You'll need to do weekly water quality tests and add any necessary cleaning or balancing chemicals. And every month, you'll need to clean or change the filters. Plus, of course, it's necessary to change the water every three to four months. Professional hot tub maintenance is similar to the cost of pool maintenance.
Do I need more jets?
The amount of jets you need depends on their placement and the appropriate pressure. You should focus more on a lower amount of jets with good pressure that can evenly spread the water. Aim for a maximum of 30 jets per massage pump.
More important than the number of jets is the size and placement of the jets; they should follow the contours of your body, with larger jets for larger body areas, like your back and shoulders, and smaller ones for smaller areas like your wrists and neck.
Should I get more horsepower?
It depends on the jets, pump, and electricity. You can have a good flow with less horsepower. If you buy one with outsized power but don’t adjust the plumbing or electrical system, you might cause issues. A local electrician can advise you whether you need a horsepower upgrade and what changes you'd have to make to your electrical system to accommodate it.
Is it worth fixing a hot tub?
If your hot tub is less than 10 years old, it’s probably worth fixing. If the repair bill is half the cost of replacement, consider getting a new one. You also need to weigh up the frequency of repairs. If you're finding you have to have repairs made multiple times a year, then your hot tub could be nearing the end of its useful life, and it becomes false economy to continue with repairs, which can quickly mount up, when installing a new hot tub costs $150 to $530, plus the cost of the hot tub, which is between $2,000 and $35,000.
How many years do hot tubs last?
Most hot tubs last 10 to 15 years, depending on the design and quality. Inflatable models may not last as long. How long your hot tub lasts depends on the environment, how much you use it, and the level of care and maintenance it receives. Using water softeners, having your hot tub serviced yearly, and taking care of any minor issues as soon as they arise can significantly prolong your hot tub's life.
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