8 FAQs About the Hot Tub Blower

What is a hot tub blower?

A hot tub blower is a unit that uses a fan to create air flow and then channels that air through the jets in a hot tub or spa. It is sometimes referred to as an air pump or a bubbler because it creates bubbling in the water (different from a hot tub jet). The components of a hot tub blower are the fan, motor, housing, and the ducting.

Why use a blower?

Blowers mix the air and water and create a relaxing environment, particularly when used in conjunction with the hot tub’s jets.

Does my hot tub have a blower?

Blowers are a feature that come standard with a lot of hot tub models, but one can be added post-market if it’s something you really want, but it needs to be compatible with your spa pack to work properly. If your topside control panel has a blower option, it’s likely that you do, in fact, have a hot tub blower or have a system that is compatible with one.

What are the disadvantages of a blower?

Though a lot of owners really like the soothing bubbles, blowers are notorious for rapidly cooling the temperature of the water, meaning that you have to expend energy later on to heat the water back up to the preset temp. This makes your hot tub less energy efficient.

Some also complain that the blower running alongside the jets makes the hot tub too loud, which can be the antithesis of relaxation. It just depends on your personal preference.

How do I pick a blower (new or replacement)?

When you get a new blower, it’s important to determine the correct voltage in order for it to be compatible with your control unit, whether they’re 110V or 220V. You’ll also need to choose the right size plumbing to link up with your system, either 1.5” or 2”.

There are also different plug types available, dependent on the kind that you need. There are varieties anywhere from a 4 FT amp cord, 4 pin plugs, 3 pin molded plugs, etc. Many blowers will give you option to choose from. You can also get a blower that doesn’t have a plug at all if you intend to hard wire it into your hot tub.

If a part of the blower breaks, how do I fix it?

It’s recommended that if your blower breaks, you repair the whole unit instead of trying to just fix the component pieces. Trying to fix the parts is NOT more cost effective and you’re more likely to have major issues anyway.

How do I make sure my blower lasts a long time?

To extend the life of your hot tub blower, you should make sure you avoid what’s called “water intrusion.” There are a few ways to reduce the risk the chance of water intrusion: make sure whomever installs the blower uses a Hartford loop in the plumbing. A Hartford loop is when the ducting is looped up inside the spa cabinet so that part of it goes above the water line. This acts like a sink drain trap and keeps water out of the motor of the blower.

Another step that is common to take is to install a one-way check valve. This offers the blower more protection. The air from the blower will compress the valve spring when operational, opening the gate and closing again when the blower is off.

Can I install my own hot tub blower?

It’s a fairly simple process, but before working on the electric system in a hot tub, make sure you shut it off completely before attempting to diagnose the system, make inspections, or execute repairs. If you’re not comfortable with electrical work, make sure you get a professional to do the job.