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Considerations & Solutions

Spas and hot tubs can develop leaks as the result of routine wear and tear, carelessness, accidents or the effects of wintertime damage.  Not all loss of water can be attributed to a leaky spa or hot tub.  Losses, due to evaporation, splash out  or prolonged uncovered periods are normal and are expected.  Excessive water loss, more than approximately 1/4" daily, should be investigated, unless the unit is covered for long periods of time.  Products are available to help determine if there is a spa or hot tub leak, where the leak is located and to help seal the leak.  There are companies that specialize in spa or hot tub leak detection and repair.  Clicking on the underlined and highlighted "keywords" or "catch phrases," in the archived answers will give you access to additional information on that topic or product.  Please refer to the Glossary, if there are terms or phrases that require explanation.

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► How Much FIX A LEAK To Use?

I have a 400 gallon spa that leaks around a couple jets. Is 2 to 3 oz. of Fix A Leak all I need to use?

Steve and Pam, 7/14/2004

It is suggested that you use about 8 ounces of  FIX A LEAK product.  The use of more product might require that you empty and clean the spa.  Being that the leak is around the return jets, if your spa has a sprayed on type of inner insulation, you might want to drain the spa and leave it empty for 3-4 days before beginning.  This will allow the insulation to dry out.  Otherwise, the damp insulation could interfere with the FIX A LEAK curing process.  I hope that the information proves to be helpful.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 7/15/2004

► Time For Curing?

I have a 5-6 person hot tub outside in North Dakota.  Our temperature is dropping and my hot tub is leaking.  I have had so many problems with it this past year.  Put in a new circuit board and new pump, 2 new sensors and a flow switch.  It was finally up and running and has now started to leak, approximately ½ - 1 inch per day.  There is no water in the equipment compartment.  I removed one side panel and could not see any plumbing - it has that sprayed in insulation.  It sits on my deck and I can see water dripping underneath.  Is this something that the fix-a-leak stuff would fix?  Thanks much.

Deb, North Dakota, 10/12/2007

The letter below was received immediately prior to yours.  Yes, it can work, in a great many cases, and this letter says it all.  For ordering information go to the Fix A Leak Store or www.fixaleak.com

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 10/12/2007

Alan, I purchased a bottle of Fix-A-Leak last month hoping to repair a leak in my 8-year old spa.  The spa developed a leak 2 years ago around several fittings and had to be shipped back to the factory for repairs. And because of the foam insulation, there is no way I could have located or repaired the leak myself.  It cost me $900.00 to have the unit craned out and back into to my backyard the first time, but fortunately, it was still under warranty so the repair was free.  With the warranty now over who knows what this repair would have cost.  I applied Fix-A-Leak per the instructions and no more leak.  It saved me the cost of factory repair.  Thanks.

Ed F., Castro Valley, CA, 10/12/2007

► Leaking Inground Spa?

David J., Wichita, Kansas, 4/13/2004

It is probably not a major leak:  just the type that could be sealed by the FIX A LEAK product.  It can make a long-lasting  seal, in a small leak, possibly as big as 1/8".  It is certainly worth trying, given the modest cost and the alternatives.  Leak detection services can help locate the problem and minimize the repair efforts, should other efforts prove unsuccessful.  I don't know of any other options.  Good luck.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 4/14/2004

► Environmental Concerns?

Hi Alan - Greetings from Prescott, AZ.  We had water oozing from underneath the spa and Fix A Leak did exactly that!  Fixed the leak.  Great news, considering the alternatives.  The question is:  Can I safely drain the spa onto the ground without endangering the trees that are downhill from the spa site? Any other environmental problems with siphoning onto forested areas?  Again, thanks for recommending such a great product.

Steve R., Prescott, Arizona. 6/20/2009

Once you adjust the pH of the spa, the Fix A Leak, present in any discharged water, will be harmless.  The only common chemicals to be concerned about are chlorine or bromine and these should not cause a problem, so long as the level is not overly high.  Glad to hear that the Fix A Leak product succeeded in solving the problem.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 6/20/2009

► Proper Usage Temperature?

This afternoon, I purchased a 8 oz bottle of Fix A Leak.  When using this product, does the water in the hot tub have to be hot or cold?  At this time the water in the tub is clean cold tap water. approx temp 52° F.  The tub capacity is 250 gallons, so I understand that I would only need to add 4 ozs. of Fix A Leak, initially.  I would appreciate your reply.  Thank you.

Derek S., Canada, 11/15/2004

This is a really good question and I was surprised that it was not asked sooner.  I checked with the manufacturer and was informed that FIX A LEAK can be used at typical spa temperatures,  It is recommended that the water temperature be in the 70° F or above range.  In your case, the water temperature should be raised.  Good luck and thanks for writing.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 11/15/2004

► Where To Purchase Fix A Leak?

Could you give me the name of location where I could buy Fix A Leak.  My spa has a leak, in a area that is hard to reach and I thought that I would give it a try.  My zip code is 11746, if that helps.

Sam K., Dix Hills, NY 9/5/2004

For local dealer availability, call 905 374-2560.  They should be able to provide you with the necessary information.  Go to:  www.fixaleak.com for product information.  I hope the information helps solve the problem.  Other you can order the product from this website:  CLICK HERE.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 9/5/2004

► Slow Leak?

I have a slow leak in my hot tub. I have found the leak, it is where a hose connects to a jet.  My question is, will the leak stop stuff fix something like that or any idea how to get the hose out and reseal it?  I don't want to seal it from the outside of the tube. Thanks.

Rich, 1/0/18/2006

Fix A Leak can seal leaks as big as 1/8" in diameter.  It seals, as it leaks out of the spa and forms a permanent seal from the inside out.  After the product is added, bypass the filter, keep the water turning over every now and then, in order to keep the product suspended.  Once the leak stops, open up the cabinet and allow the product 24-48 hours to cure and make a very long-lasting seal.  If this fails, you might have to do more extensive searching or consider calling in a leak detection service.  Good luck and I hope that this information will prove helpful.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 10/18/2006

 

► Spa Water Loss?

I have noticed approx. 3 inches of water loss per week in my 400 gallon hot tub. It is outdoors and it has been cold. I have a good cover. Is this normal water loss or could it be a leak?  Thanks.

Rich, 12/26/2003

I don't recall ever seeing figures for water loss for a spa that remains properly covered, except for periods of actual usage.  From my own experience, it seems to be well beyond what should result from evaporation.  Depending upon the size and shape of the spa, an inch of water loss could amount to 10-20 gallons.  I suggest that you double check that the cover is sealing reasonably well and then start looking for evidence of a leak.  In the final analysis, if you conclude that there is a probability of a leak, it may be possible to seal the leak, but you have to locate it.  You might consider calling in a leak detection specialist.  For more product information and for a dealer locator, go to:  www.poolleak.info  Good luck.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 12/26/2003

 

► Leaky Spa?

I seem to have a leak that allows water to accumulate under the spa cabinet.  I can't see the source and it is not severe, but I'm afraid that given time it will cause rotting and mildew.  Any suggestions?  Thank you.

Ted, Vermont, 2/2/2004

There is a product called FIX A LEAK that can be used to help seal the leak.  The product directions will explain how it should be added to seal leaks that might be in the plumbing, shell or installed fittings.  It has been sealing leaks since 1980.  Hopefully, your problem will be solved.  I hope that I have been helpful.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 2/2/2004

 

► Reversing Flow Stopped Leak? 

Hi Alan, Greg B. here.  We talked before. I ran my hot tub for about four hours. The water level stayed where it was. After letting it sit for a couple of hours, I noticed the water level had dropped. So from our previous talks, I assume I have a suction leak. I reversed the lines on my pump, took out the filter.  I put in 12oz. of Fix-A-Leak. Turned the pump on for around 3 hours then shut it off.  I check the water level and was still the same. I checked back in 3 hours and it was still the same.  Checked the next day in the morning and after I got home from work, still at the same level.  It looks like the leak has stopped, but not really sure what the next step is.  I don't understand how the Fix-A-Leak can set-up and get hard, if it is still submerged in water. Can you let me know what to do now?  Thanks.

Greg B., 2/4/2009

It is simpler than you think.  As the water leaked out, the Fix A Leak formed a crust, which sealed up the leak.  This crust is outside of the spa and is not in contact with the water.  Now you have to give it a few days to thoroughly cure.   Remove any wet insulation and ventilate the cabinet, with a fan, so that things can completely dry out.  Occasionally, stir the spa.  In a few days, drain and clean the spa.  Rinse the filter, as well.   Lets hope that, after refilling things, stay dry.  Good luck.

Alan Schuster, 2/4/2009

 

► Is There A Spa Leak?

I have a fiberglass "jogging tank" in my basement, a 34 inch diameter, 6 foot cylinder with spa heater, pump etc. I calculate this tank holds 255 gallons using 5.5 feet of water. Surface area is 6.21 square feet. It heats rapidly to 93 degrees from the low 80s. Ambient inside temperate is around 70 degrees.  It loses 1/16 inch each hour without the pump (covered with a 3/4 inch diameter plastic bubble sheet) and 1/4 inch per hour while pumping and heating.  The contractor who just installed the system believes the problem is all evaporation. I believe a leak is present. I am reluctant to use "Fix a Leak" without knowing exactly the problem, IE what if it works for only a short period and also I am not certain that this much water under my house is a good thing.  Your opinion and advice will be greatly appreciated since the contractor is reluctant to really search and repair a leak. Your site is a great source and I appreciate your efforts.  Thank you.

Garrison W., Tryon, NC, 2/14/2005

I can't definitively state that you have a leak.  Evaporation just cannot be excluded.  I suggest that you do the following and let the facts speak for themselves.  Mark the water level with a line on a piece of tape.  Cover the unit with a solid plastic sheet and seal off with duct tape, making is as airtight as possible.  Give it a day and see the results.  If there is a loss, you have the answer:  a leak!  If there is no loss, repeat the procedure, with the pump running for a few hours.  This time, if there is a loss, the problem is in the plumbing system and FIX A LEAK might be worth a try.  I understand that you are, rightfully, concerned about water under the basement, but you are neglecting water vapor in the basement.  I suggest that you use a cover a bit more effective than some bubble film.  Good luck and I hope that I have been helpful.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 2/14/2005

 

► Spider Cracks And Leaks?

I own a 500 gallon above ground hot tub.  This spa is famous for spider cracks in the front wall where the step and light are located.  Spider cracks form because of the bad design, no insulating foam or support in the pump compartment and a large jet shakes the wall. Has been repaired, but continues to form new cracks.  I was considering dumping it in a landfill, but heard of the Fix A Leak product.  In this case, would Fix A Leak be effective?

Unhappy, 3/37/2007

Great endorsement for the spa company!  It sounds like you have been down the road.  Who is the manufacturer?  Fix A Leak could very well make a very long-lasting seal.  I can't guarantee a new crack won't form, but it is worth trying.  Have you ever considered painting the spa.  Ultra Poly One Coat is a high tech, hybrid epoxy coating that might seal the surface on a more permanent basis.  Sealing first and then applying the coating could be the way to go.  Good luck.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 3/28/2007

 

► Jumping The Gun?

Hope you can answer this one.  We are in the process of having an inground pool and spa installed.  They have done the dig, the gunite, the tile and the plumbing so far.  My question to you is twofold:  First of all, we live in Florida and since there is not much space between the houses, we paid extra for a "small dig" machine to do the dig.  They started with the "small machine" dig and found that it was taking too long, so, they stopped with the small machine, after two hours, and brought in a big machine to do the dig.  They advised us that they do not owe us any money back for bringing the big machine in instead of the small machine.

My second question is:  We have a pool and a spa.  The spa is level with the pool.  My husband decided to put some water in the spa.  It has been five weeks since the gunite was done and there is a leak from the spa wall into the pool.  In approximately a 5 hour period the spa leaked about 10 inches of water into the pool area.  Again, the pool and spa have not had the exposed aggregate finish applied yet, but I was wondering if I should advise the pool company of the leak.  They really are not very cooperative, so I didn't call them about this. If you think that it is something that will be "fixed" once they apply the finish.  Any assistance would be appreciated.  Thank you.

Pam M., Florida, 1/19/2005

Based on the first question, their actions border on questionable.  You're paying for their mistake or to speed up their work.  Of course, you will recommend them to all of your friends?  They evidently don't realize that today's recommendations are the sales of tomorrow.  There may not be anything wrong with the spa.  It is the pool and spa finish that makes the concrete shell watertight.  Inasmuch as the pool and spa remain unfinished, the leak might be normal and not unexpected.  There's no way to be sure at this time.  After the pool and spa are plastered, all leaking should stop.  If not, there is a problem.  Good luck and I hope that I have been of some assistance.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 1/19/2005

 

► Evaporation?

Hi there - First of all you site is full of great information.  We are new spa owners and it seems like lately I'm having to fill the spa ever couple of days because the water level is down any where from 1-2 inches.  Think we might have a leak or is it normal evaporation? Thanks.

Deanna W., 10/12/2004

I would not consider that to be normal evaporation.  It seems to be excessive.  If you are leaking water, you should look for signs of wetness or puddling.  The other possibility is that the spa is not tightly covered or that it is remaining uncovered for excessively long periods of time.  These are the two most likely causes for the water loss.  I hope you find the right one.  Good luck.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 10/12/2004

 

► Leak Has Stopped - Do I Drain?

Hi, I just used FIX A LEAK in my hot tub. Amazing!  The dripping is gone, thank you.  Now do I need to drain my tub?

Drake N., Quesnel, BC, Canada, 10/24/2006

That's great news.  As far as I am concerned, a spa should be drained and cleaned every few months and this is a good time to do it.  I would give it 48 hours and then drain and clean.  Thanks for the feedback and I'm glad to have been of assistance.

Sincerely.  Alan Schuster, 10/24/2006

 

Proper water chemistry will help to to better control and avoid corrosion problems and maintain more optimum swimming conditions.  More information about Pool/Spa Water Testing Products can be found in the Test Equipment Store.

 

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