How much does it cost to repair a hot tub?

Reviewed by Cristina Miguelez remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

Hot tubs offer luxury and relaxation with a soothing soak at the end of a long day. These tubs come in a range of sizes and styles, from relatively small and simple models for a few people to much larger tubs with massage jets on all sides and enough space for up to 10 users. Unfortunately, like other appliances and devices, hot tubs can break down or suffer from various faults and failures.

The cost of hot tub repair varies depending on the problem. The national average cost range is between $160 and $400 for hot tub repair. Most homeowners spend $250 to repair a hot tub motherboard. The prices can be much lower or higher in certain situations. Repairing a major leak, involving repair work on piping and the tub cabinet, costs around $1,500, while replacing a jet costs approximately $100.

Hob Tup Repair Price

Cost to Repair a Hot Tub by Type of Repair

Hot tubs are complicated and involve many components, and each part can break or wear out, leading to many possible problems that might need fixing. The table below shows common hot tub parts with the average repair costs:

Hot Tub Cover Repair

Repairing a hot tub cover costs between $50 and $75 if you do the repairs yourself, or $100 to $150 if you contact a professional. Covers become worn or suffer holes or tears, but you can patch those holes with simple repair kits, saving cash over buying a new cover.

Treating Hard Water in Hot Tubs

Treating hard water in hot tubs averages $50 to $100. Many people live in areas with hard water, which is water with high levels of calcium and has a higher risk of causing scale deposits to build up in pipes and hot tubs. This can lead to cloudy water and ugly marks around your tub’s waterline, but it is easy and affordable to treat hard water with filters or chemical treatments. You can do this yourself or ask a professional for help, increasing the cost to between $100 and $150.

Repair a Hole in a Hot Tub

Repairing a hole in your hot tub ranges from $100 to $250. Hot tubs are designed to be strong and sturdy, but holes or cracks may appear under heavy pressure or sudden impacts. A professional repairman typically uses a fiberglass repair mixture or mesh product to fix this problem.

Hot Tub Heater Repair

Hot tub heater repairs cost between $150 and $300. The heater is one of the most important elements in your hot tub because it heats the water and makes the tub enjoyable and soothing. As time goes by, heaters can start to wear down, leading to inconsistent temperatures or a situation where the water does not heat. Most broken heaters must be replaced, but some can be rewired or descaled.

Rebuild Hot Tub Cabinet

Rebuilding a hot tub cabinet costs $150 to $400, depending on the cabinet size and type. Larger and more complex cabinets may take more time and money. Rebuilding a cabinet is a good option if your existing cabinet has worn down or suffered cracks and breakages. A new cabinet can also give your tub a fresh look.

Hot Tub Circuit Board Repair

Repairing a hot tub circuit board ranges from $150 to $450, depending on the problem. The circuit board is your tub’s nerve center, controlling various features and functions. Many issues can arise if something goes wrong with the circuit board. You need a specialized hot tub repairman to look at the tub and find out what is wrong. Some repairs are simple, such as fixing loose connections, but others require more labor like resoldering individual components on the board.

Hot Tub Motherboard Repair

Repairing a hot tub motherboard costs $150 to $450. The motherboard can also be referred to as the control board or circuit board. It is responsible for controlling the various functions and processes of your tub, allowing the jets to function, the water to flow, and the heater to turn on. One or more tub panels must be removed to access the board, and a technician needs to look to find the problem. They usually have to check the wires and connectors to see if any loose connections are preventing the board from functioning correctly. They may also need to solder individual parts of the board that might be damaged.

Hot Tub Pump Repair

Repairing a hot tub pump costs from $200 to $500, depending on the problem. The pump is one of the most vital parts of your tub, responsible for powering the jets and circulating water. It is also a very expensive part to replace, so it is usually better to try and get it repaired rather than have a new one fitted. Various repair jobs can be performed on pumps, from fixing loose connectors and damaged wires to adding new shaft seals, bearings, and impellers.

Hot Tub Frozen Pipes Repair

Fixing a hot tub with frozen pipes averages $200 to $500, depending on the damage’s extent. Pipes and other parts of your hot tub may freeze during the winter and in cold conditions, leading to cracks and other damage that could prevent the hot tub from working correctly. Frozen pipes need to be thawed carefully to avoid further damage, and any leaks or cracks must be fixed.

Hot Tub Leak Repair

The cost to fix a leak in a hot tub ranges from $250 to $1,500, depending on the hot tub and problem. There are many possible causes of leaks, from faulty pumps to issues with valves and connections. An experienced technician must look at the tub and find the problem before giving you a repair quote. Valve issues can be inexpensive to fix, but pump problems are more costly, and the leak may damage other components and your cabinet, leading to a large repair bill.

Cost to Repair a Hot Tub by Type of Replacement

Sometimes, repairing a part is impossible, and you must replace it. This is common with hot tub repairs and is usually the most effective option long-term because parts that break once are likely to break again. The table below shows common hot tub replacements with average costs:

Hot Tub Jet Replacement

Replacing a hot tub jet costs between $50 and $200. This is one of the only replacement jobs owners can safely do themselves. Replacing jets is simple because most models unscrew and can be replaced with new ones, but you may want a professional to ensure you choose the correct models and sizes for your tub.

Spa Filter Replacement

Hot tub filter replacements range from $75 to $400. Your tub’s filters are responsible for keeping dirt and contaminants out of your tub’s water. Filters can get clogged and must be cleaned regularly, and eventually, they may wear down so much that a full replacement is required. Hot tub owners can replace filters without a repairman.

Hot Tub Cover Replacement

Replacing a hot tub cover averages $75 to $500, depending on the cover type. Covers are essential for protecting your tub against the elements, insects, dirt, and debris. Covers can degrade, get torn, or puncture, so they need to be replaced. You can usually fit a new cover yourself, but you might prefer to hire a professional.

Hot Tub Diverter Valve Replacement

Replacing a hot tub diverter valve costs between $100 and $200 on average. The diverter valve is responsible for controlling the water’s flow and allows it to be directed to different parts of the spa. You can have several diverter valves fitted around your spa’s plumbing system.

Hot Tub Pressure Switch Replacement

Hot tub pressure switch replacements average $100 to $250. The pressure switch is responsible for checking that the water is flowing correctly and preventing the heater from overheating and burning out. Replacing a pressure switch is a relatively easy job but should still be handled by a professional.

Hot Tub Light Replacement

Replacing a hot tub light costs between $100 and $250 on average. Many hot tubs come with LED lights to illuminate the water, adding aesthetic appeal to your tub and making it easier to use at night. These lights can wear out and need to be replaced with new ones, and you can find lights in a range of colors and styles.

Hot Tub Thermostat Replacement

Replacing a hot tub thermostat ranges from $125 to $250. The thermostat is responsible for monitoring the water’s temperature and allowing it to function at the correct heat settings. To replace a thermostat, a technician must access the main control box, disconnect the wires from the faulty thermostat, unscrew or remove it, and fit the new one.

Hot Tub Foam Insulation Replacement

Hot tub foam insulation replacements average $200 to $400 in most cases. All hot tubs need insulation to maintain the water’s temperature and protect the parts from frosty conditions in winter. Foam insulation is found in most models. It may wear down and need to be replaced, but you can buy a foam insulation replacement kit and have a professional install it.

Replace a Hot Tub Heater

Replacing a hot tub heater costs between $200 and $700, depending on the make and model. Heaters can be expensive, and some tubs demand high-end heaters to function correctly. If you notice your tub is not warming up, it might be time for a new heater.

Hot Tub Motor Replacement

Replacing a hot tub motor costs between $250 and $1,000, depending on the model. The motor is the driving force, and the pump cannot work if it breaks down, causing the tub to become unusable. When a motor starts to fail, have it looked at and replaced quickly if you want to continue using your tub.

Hot Tub Pump Replacement

Replacing a hot tub ranges from $250 to $1,000, depending on the make and model. Pumps vary in price, depending on their power and design, with some of the more high-end high-horsepower models having large price tags. There are also more budget-friendly options for those who want to save money.

Hot Tub Circuit Board Replacement

Replacing a hot tub circuit board averages $350 to $1,000, depending on the make and model. The circuit board is one of the most expensive hot tub components, so this can be a costly job. It may require a lot of labor for a repairman to take the tub apart and access the area where the new board needs to be installed.

Cost to Repair a Hot Tub by Type of Problem

If you are not a hot tub professional, you might not know which part of your tub is to blame when something goes wrong. You might notice that the tub is not turning on or heating like it used to or making a strange noise you have not noticed before. Have a certified technician examine the hot tub to identify the root cause. The table below shows common hot tub problems with average price ranges to fix each one:

Filtration System Not Working

Repairing a broken filtration system in a hot tub costs between $75 and $500. The filter system plays an important role in keeping the hot tub clean and safe to use, preventing the water from becoming cloudy and contaminated. If your system is not working correctly, it might need adjusting or replacing with a new one. Act fast because a broken filter can cause dirt to build up in your spa.

Hot Tub Leaks Only When Jets Are On

Fixing a hot tub that leaks when the jets are on costs $100 to $750. This is a common problem for hot tub owners to deal with, and it usually means there may be a crack or gasket issue around the jets. This might be solved by replacing the jets or require deeper work in the tub’s body, which can cost more.

Jets not Working

Fixing a hot tub where the jets do not work costs between $100 and $1,000, depending on the problem type and scale. It might be a case that one or more of the jets are faulty and need replacing, or it could be a more complicated issue with the tub’s plumbing or motherboard. You need a professional to look at the tub and diagnose the issue.

Spa Will Not Turn On

Fixing a spa that does not turn on costs $150 to $1,000. If your hot tub does not turn on at all, it is likely an issue with the control board or motor. These components can be costly to repair or replace. However, there is a chance it might just be a wiring issue, which could be resolved more affordably.

Hot Tub Not Heating

Fixing a hot tub that does not heat ranges from $150 to $1,000. There are a few potential causes of this problem. It might be an issue with the heater, which could need repair or replacement, or a problem with another component like the control board or pump.

Hot Tub Motor Humming

Fixing a hot tub that hums from the motor costs between $200 and $1,000. The most common cause of this complaint is a problem with the hot tub pump. The pump might have a fault that can be fixed, or it may need to be replaced.

Hot Tub Motor Not Working

Repairing a hot tub where the motor does not work ranges from $250 to $1,000. It is easy to detect when the motor is broken because the pump will not work without it, and your hot tub cannot circulate water or produce massaging jets. Usually, the motor must be replaced.

Labor Costs to Repair a Hot Tub

To get your hot tub back in working order when something goes wrong, it is recommended to contact a professional hot tub repair company or spa specialist. There are simple repairs you might be able to do yourself, such as fitting a new jet or patching up a cover, but it is best to have a professional look at the tub and fix whatever is wrong in most cases. Most repair workers charge between $75 to $125 per hour.

They may also charge a diagnostic fee, ranging from $100 to $200, to inspect your tub. This fee is typically discounted if you hire the same worker to fix the problem. Some hot tub repairs can be finished in under an hour, but many jobs take a few hours. For example, new covers and jets can be fitted in a matter of minutes, but repairing a pump or replacing a motor may take three hours or more.

Hot Tub Maintenance Cost

You can reduce the risk of hot tub problems and costly repairs by keeping your hot tub well-maintained. Hot tubs must be looked after to function correctly and last as long as possible, and a well-maintained hot tub can last for 15+ years with only minor repairs.

You can do a lot of hot tub maintenance on your own, at a cost of around $20 to $30 per month or $240 to $360 per year. This covers the chemical treatments needed to balance your water’s pH, cleaning supplies to clean your hot tub regularly, and tools or repair kits for handling issues like cover punctures or tub cracks. You should also clean the filters regularly and check your tub often to spot signs of wear and tear and address them before they become serious.

You can also hire a professional to carry out regular check-ups on your hot tub and take care of all necessary maintenance tasks. This costs from $150 to $250 per maintenance session, and it is recommended to have your pool maintained by a professional three to five times per year or every few months.

Is It Worth Fixing a Hot Tub?

When something goes wrong with your hot tub, you might wonder if the repair/replacement costs are worth it. If the repair costs are lower than the price of a new tub, it is probably worth repairing. If a repairman is quoting you a very high price for a repair job, you may want to consider getting a new tub.

Given that the average cost of a new hot tub installation is $4,000 to $8,500, it is usually cheaper to have your tub repaired. At the same time, it may make more sense financially to purchase a new tub if yours is over 10 years old and has recurring issues that need to be fixed.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• The installation location of your spa can influence repair costs. For example, if the spa is installed on a deck and part of the deck must be removed to access the spa for repairs, more labor and money are required.
• Your home location can also affect the total costs to repair your hot tub. If you live in a remote location, repair workers may need to drive a long distance to get to your home and may charge you extra for each mile they had to drive.
• Do not forget to check your tub’s warranty coverage when you purchase it. Most spa manufacturers offer warranties of between one and five years for new hot tubs, and you can save money on repairs if an issue arises while your tub is still covered.
• If you want to enjoy a hot tub without spending so much on the tub and repairs, you may want to opt for an inflatable model. These hot tubs are cheaper to buy, and there are fewer things that can go wrong, so repairs tend to be more affordable. However, they do not give you the same performance as a regular spa.
• Find a hot tub with an automatic shut-off feature because this allows the tub to turn off automatically if any problems are detected. For example, the tub turns off when the temperature gets too high. This can prevent users from burns and other issues and protects the tub’s components from overheating and burning out.
• Many hot tub owners and experts recommend investing in a locking cover when the tub is not in use. This can be an invaluable safety feature to prevent trespassers from getting into your tub and is useful for families who want to control when their kids use the tub.