Faulty Hot Tub Pump? Here's How Much It'll Cost to Fix
Normal range: $200 - $1,200
If you need to fix a hot tub pump, expect to pay between $200 and $1,200 depending on which parts are malfunctioning and whether you repair or replace the pump.
If low water flow, lukewarm water, or a constant humming has interrupted your hot tub soak, you might need to fix the hot tub pump. A pump is a vital piece of the hot tub relaxation process. Without the pump, you won’t experience the luxurious massaging action—or even the basic circulation of heated water. A hot tub without a pump is just a kiddie pool, so here’s what you need to know to get it back in working order.
- Average
- $700
- Low end
- $150
- high end
- $1,500
Signs It’s Time to Fix Your Hot Tub Pump
Be on the lookout for any signs of trouble with the hot tub pump, which may include:
A constant whining or humming sound
Low or no water flow (sometimes you’ll hear a noise even though the water isn’t flowing)
Water pooling in a puddle near the pump
No water coming out of the jets
The water isn’t heating up
Pumps wear down after years of use, but the fix can vary. Sometimes it simply needs new watertight seals, which is the easiest and least expensive fix. If the whole pump needs replacing, though, you’ll likely pay closer to $1,200 for a pro to repair.
How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Hot Tub Pump by Part?
The cost of getting your hot tub pump working again depends on what the problem is and where the pump is located. Expect to spend $200 to $1,000 for labor in addition to the cost of replacement parts.
Simple parts (e.g., replacement seal): $15—$65
Impellers: $100
Motor replacement: $150—$250
Jet pump: $200—$300
Circulation pump: $200—$500
Two-speed pump: $750—$1,200
What Hot Tub Parts Can I Repair on My Budget?
Once your technician gets into the pump system, you might get the option to repair or replace the pump. If the damage costs more than $500 to repair, you may want to think about getting a new one rather than trying to fix the hot tub pump.
Repairing the Hot Tub Pump
Hot tub pumps have two ends known as the wet and dry ends; the water moves through the wet end where the impeller sits, and the motor is on the dry end. It might be possible to replace just the impeller ($100) or the motor ($150 to $200), but sometimes the pump problems can pile on. While the tech is in there, you might consider replacing the whole thing and saving the cost of another visit, especially if the hot tub pump is in a hard-to-access place.
Replacing the Hot Tub Pump
If you decide to replace the hot tub pump, you might have an opportunity for some upgrades. Your technician can tell you what your hot tub will support, like switching from a one-speed pump ($200 to $300) to a two-speed pump ($750 to $1,200).
Hot tub pumps range in horsepower (hp), from 1 hp ($200) to 5 hp ($400 to $500). If you’d like more water pressure to really work out those knots in your shoulders—or because you can handle the pressure—ask your technician if you can go up. Just be warned: There’s a big difference between 1 and 5 hp.
How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Hot Tub Pump Yourself?
A new hot tub pump costs between $200 and $1,200. Hot tub work can be complex, so you might want to save the hassle and guesswork and have a pro diagnose the problem and fix it.
Hot Tub Pump Repair Cost Breakdown
A professional hot tub pump repair often takes two visits. During the first, the pro will locate the problem and determine what parts are needed. They might be able to replace simple parts like worn O-rings and seals on the spot. Those parts might only cost a few dollars.
For bigger issues, the professional will probably have to order parts for your specific hot tub and come back to install them (see the above list for part replacement costs).
In addition, many pumps are installed out-of-sight. The contractor might have to open up your wall or floor to get a look at the problem. Expect to pay more for labor if the technician has to contort their body around plumbing fixtures and floorboards to reach the pump’s location. If that’s the case, consider these tips for installing a hot tub.
What Factors Influence the Cost to Repair a Hot Tub Pump?
Factors in the cost to fix a hot tub pump include what needs replacing and where the pump is located.
What Needs Replacing
Expect to spend between $200 and $1,200 for a professional to come out to fix the hot tub pump. In addition, you’ll need replacement parts. Simple seals could only be a couple of dollars, but a new motor can cost $250. Your costs will depend on what the problem is and whether you choose to repair the pump or replace the whole thing.
Fixing Hot Tub Pumps Hidden in Walls or Floors
Some pumps can be easily accessed via a front panel. Others are hidden away where you have to reach around things, or worse yet, the access panel in the whirlpool tub is blocked by construction, so the only way to access it is by punching through a wall or ceiling. If that’s the case, the costs can add up quickly. You might also need to budget several hundred dollars to repair and repaint the wall or ceiling.
Cost to Repair Drywall
If you’re handy, you can fix a hole in the wall from accessing a hidden hot tub pump yourself. Expect to pay about $45 for drywall, spackle, a putty knife, wood, a few screws, and sandpaper. Add $15 to $25 for a quart of paint to finish the project.
You can also hire a pro drywall installer to patch up the spot for $60 per hour on average plus the cost of materials.