Repair Services

Snow Valley Spas provides factory-trained service, professional diagnostics, and access to quality replacement parts.

Benefits include:

• Experienced technicians
• Proper diagnostic procedures
• Manufacturer-supported repairs
• Access to replacement parts
• Knowledge of Sundance Spas and many other brands
• Maintenance customer repair discounts
• Ongoing support after the repair is completed

Our goal is not simply to replace parts, but to identify the root cause of the issue, protect your investment, and keep your spa operating reliably for years to come.

We strongly recommend an annual professional inspection, especially for older hot tubs, vacation rentals, Airbnb properties, and heavily used spas.

A preventative inspection can help identify issues before they become expensive repairs, including:

• Early pump wear and motor problems
• Heater scale buildup and reduced efficiency
• Small leaks before they cause major damage
• Electrical concerns and loose connections
• Rodent activity or damage
• Water chemistry issues affecting equipment life
• Cover deterioration, waterlogging, or insulation loss
• Worn seals, unions, and plumbing components

Why Schedule an Inspection Before My Warranty Expires?

One of the most valuable times to schedule an inspection is several months before your manufacturer's warranty expires.

A comprehensive inspection can identify components that may be:

• Failing prematurely
• Showing signs of excessive wear
• Defective under warranty
• Eligible for replacement before coverage ends

Identifying these issues while the spa is still under warranty may help avoid out-of-pocket repair costs later and ensure you receive the full benefit of your warranty coverage.

Is It Really Worth It?

Absolutely. Most major component failures begin as small, detectable issues. Catching a minor leak, worn pump bearing, loose electrical connection, or developing heater scale problem early is often significantly less expensive than waiting for a complete component failure.

Think of an annual spa inspection the same way you would a yearly vehicle inspection or service appointment: a small investment in preventative maintenance that helps protect your hot tub, reduce repair costs, and maximize the lifespan of your spa.

The time required to heat a hot tub depends on several factors, including:

• Starting water temperature
• Outside air temperature
• Wind exposure
• Water volume of the spa
• Heater size (kW rating)
• Cover condition and insulation efficiency

In the Fernie and East Kootenay climate, we strongly recommend a 5.5 kW heater, which is standard on most 240V Sundance® Spas. A properly functioning 5.5 kW heater is generally capable of raising water temperature by approximately 4°F to 8°F (2°C to 4°C) per hour, depending on spa size and environmental conditions.

Smaller spas with lower water volumes will typically heat faster than larger spas with greater water capacity. For example, a 300-gallon spa will generally heat more quickly than a 500-gallon spa using the same heater.

How Long Will It Take After a Water Change?

Most municipal water supplies in our area enter the spa at approximately 45°F to 60°F (7°C to 15°C) depending on the season, water source, and whether the exterior plumbing has been exposed to sunlight.

Because most hot tubs operate at 100°F to 104°F (38°C to 40°C), a freshly filled spa may require anywhere from 8 to 24 hours to reach operating temperature.

Can I Fill the Spa With Hot Water to Make It Heat Faster?

You may use warm water to help reduce heating time. However, never fill your hot tub using only hot water from your domestic hot water tank.

Water that is too hot during filling can:

• Trigger overheat protection systems
• Cause temperature sensor faults
• Place unnecessary stress on components
• Prevent the spa from starting its normal heating cycle
• Cause the spa to shut down until temperatures stabilize

For best results, use primarily cold water or a mixture of warm and cold water that remains comfortably below normal spa operating temperatures.

Tips for Faster Heating

To minimize heat-up times:

• Ensure the cover remains closed during heating.
• Fill through the filter compartment to prevent air locks.
• Use a properly fitting, insulated cover.
• Protect the spa from excessive wind exposure.
• Verify the circulation system is operating correctly.

If your spa is taking significantly longer than expected to heat, it may indicate a flow restriction, dirty filter, circulation pump issue, heater problem, or an error code that requires service. Our repair team would be happy to help diagnose the issue.

Several factors can increase operating costs:

• Waterlogged covers
• Damaged cover seals
• Poor water chemistry
• Excessive scale buildup
• Failing heaters
• Continuous pump operation
• Frequent opening of the cover
• Extremely cold weather

A properly maintained and well-insulated spa is often much less expensive to operate than many homeowners expect.

Unusual sounds are often an early warning sign that something requires attention.

Common noises include:

Humming

May indicate:

• Stuck pumps
• Failed capacitors
• Restricted water flow

Grinding

May indicate:

• Worn motor bearings
• Pump damage

Gurgling

May indicate:

• Air trapped in the plumbing
• Low water levels

Vibrating or Rattling

May indicate:

• Loose components
• Pump mounting issues
• Cabinet hardware needing adjustment

Addressing unusual noises early can often prevent larger repairs.

A GFCI breaker is designed to protect you from electrical faults and should never be bypassed.

Common causes include:

• Failed heaters
• Water intrusion into equipment
• Damaged pumps
• Faulty wiring
• Moisture inside electrical connections
• Ground faults within components

If the breaker trips repeatedly, discontinue use and contact our Service Department for diagnosis.

Fernie's climate presents unique challenges for hot tub owners.

Snow Load

Heavy snow accumulation can:

• Damage covers
• Waterlog foam cores
• Shorten cover lifespan
• Damage cover lifters

Snow should be removed regularly using a soft broom or brush.

Winter Freeze Risk

If a spa loses power or circulation during extreme cold weather, freezing damage can occur quickly.

Potential damage includes:

• Cracked plumbing
• Split manifolds
• Pump damage
• Heater damage

Any loss of heat or circulation during winter should be addressed immediately.

Wildlife & Rodents

Fernie's mountain environment increases the likelihood of rodent activity around hot tubs, particularly during colder months.

Hard Water & Mineral Content

Many properties throughout the East Kootenays experience elevated hardness levels, which can contribute to:

• Scale buildup
• Heater inefficiency
• Reduced circulation
• Premature equipment wear

Regular water balancing and preventive scale treatments can help protect your spa.

Yes. Rodent damage is surprisingly common throughout the East Kootenays.

Mice and other small animals are attracted to:

• Warm equipment compartments
• Insulation materials
• Sheltered winter environments

Rodents can cause:

• Chewed wiring
• Damaged insulation
• Plumbing damage
• Equipment failures
• Nesting within the cabinet

We recommend periodically inspecting the equipment compartment and addressing signs of rodent activity immediately.

Many repairs are very worthwhile and can add years of additional life to a spa.

Repair is often the best option when:

• The shell is in good condition
• The cabinet is structurally sound
• The spa is less than 10-15 years old
• Only one major component has failed

Replacement may be worth considering when:

• Multiple major systems have failed simultaneously
• Glue is failing in the PVC piping
• Structural damage exists
• Parts are becoming unavailable
• Repair costs approach a significant percentage of replacement cost

We are happy to provide honest recommendations based on the condition of your spa and your long-term goals.

Repair times vary depending on the issue and parts availability.

Many repairs can be completed during the initial service visit if parts are stocked on our service vehicle.

More complex repairs may require:

• Additional diagnostic testing
• Specialty parts
• Manufacturer-supplied components
• Follow-up appointments

Our technicians will provide an estimated timeline once the diagnosis has been completed.

Our goal is to identify the issue accurately and provide clear repair recommendations.

A typical service call includes:

1. Discussion of symptoms and history
2. Equipment inspection and testing
3. Diagnostic evaluation
4. Identification of failed or damaged components
5. Written quote for approval where applicable
6. Repair if parts are available
7. Parts ordering and return appointment if required

We believe in fixing the underlying problem rather than simply replacing parts based on assumptions.

Not all water loss is caused by a leak. Evaporation, splash-out, and frequent use can all lower water levels, especially during winter.

Potential signs of a leak include:

• Consistent water loss when the spa is not being used
• Wet areas around or beneath the spa
• Frequent need to refill water
• Water inside the equipment compartment
• Unexplained increases in energy consumption due to heat loss

Leaks can originate from plumbing, pumps, unions, jets, seals, or equipment components. Early detection often helps reduce repair costs.

Error codes are the hot tub's way of indicating that something is not operating within normal parameters.

Common error codes may indicate:

• Flow restrictions
• Overheating conditions
• Sensor problems
• Heater issues
• Low water level
• Pump malfunctions
• Electrical system faults

It's important to remember that an error code identifies a symptom, not necessarily the failed component itself.

Our technicians use diagnostic testing to determine the actual cause before any parts are replaced.

Weak, intermittent, or non-functioning jets are often caused by restricted water flow rather than pump failure.

Common causes include:

• Dirty filters
• Low water level
• Closed slice valves
• Air locks
• Partially closed jets
• Debris within jet bodies
• Failing pumps or pump motors

In many cases, a cleaning or simple adjustment can restore performance without major repairs.

Heating issues are one of the most common reasons customers call for service.

While a failed heater is one possible cause, many heating problems are actually related to insufficient water flow.

Common causes include:

• Economy Mode is turned on
• Dirty or clogged filters
• Low water level
• Failed circulation pump
• Flow switch or pressure switch faults
• Heater failure
• Sensor or temperature probe issues
• Tripped breakers
• Air locks following a refill

Our technicians perform a complete diagnostic inspection to determine the root cause before recommending repairs.

Before scheduling a repair appointment, there are a few simple items worth checking. Many common hot tub issues can be caused by water flow restrictions, power interruptions, or routine maintenance concerns rather than a failed component.

Check the following:

• Is the GFCI breaker tripped?
• Is the spa powered on?
• Is the water level above the skimmer opening?
• Is the filter dirty or clogged?
• Is an error code displayed on the control panel?
• Is the circulation pump running?
• Are all valves fully open following a drain and refill?

If your spa still isn't operating properly after these checks, our Service Department can help diagnose the issue and recommend the appropriate repair.

Proper water chemistry is the single most important factor affecting the lifespan of your hot tub.

Water that is too acidic, too alkaline, too soft, too hard, or improperly sanitized can damage heaters, pumps, seals, pillows, covers, jets, plumbing, and electronic components.

Common problems caused by poor water maintenance include:

• Corrosion of metal components
• Scale buildup on heaters and pumps
• Premature failure of seals and gaskets
• Reduced water flow
• Excessive wear on equipment
• Waterline staining
• Shortened filter life

Just as failing to change the oil in your vehicle can damage an engine, failing to maintain proper water balance can significantly shorten the life of your spa components.

Please note that damage resulting from improper water chemistry is generally not covered under manufacturer warranty.

The most damaging water conditions are:

Low pH

Can cause:

• Corrosion
• Heater damage
• Pump seal deterioration
• Component rusting

High pH

Can cause:

• Scale buildup
• Reduced sanitizer effectiveness
• Heater inefficiency
• Cloudy water

High Calcium Hardness

Can cause:

• Heater scaling
• Restricted jet flow
• Pump wear
• Reduced circulation

Low Calcium Hardness

Can cause:

• Aggressive water
• Surface damage
• Corrosion of internal components

Low Sanitizer

Can cause:

• Bacterial growth
• Biofilm development
• Increased chlorine demand
• Water quality issues

Every spa is different, but the following are typical service life expectations when water care and maintenance are properly performed.

Hot Tub Cover

Average Life: 4-6 Years

Shortened by:

• Snow accumulation
• UV exposure
• Waterlogging
• Improper handling

Extended by:

• Using a cover lifter
• Applying UV protectant
• Removing snow promptly

Pillows

Average Life: 2-4 Years

Shortened by:

• High sanitizer levels
• Chemical exposure
• Leaving pillows in place during shocking

Extended by:

• Removing pillows during shocking
• Regular cleaning
• Seasonal storage

Jet Pumps

Average Life: 7-10 Years

Shortened by:

• Poor water chemistry
• Running with dirty filters
• Seal leaks
• Overheating

Extended by:

• Clean filters
• Proper water balance
• Annual inspections

Circulation Pumps

Average Life: 7-10 Years

Shortened by:

• Scale buildup
• Water balance issues
• Restricted flow

Extended by:

• Proper filtration
• Balanced water
• Routine maintenance

Heater

Average Life: 5-10 Years

Shortened by:

• High calcium hardness
• Scale buildup
• Corrosive water

Extended by:

• Maintaining hardness levels
• Balanced pH and alkalinity
• Preventative water care

Control Panel

Average Life: 5-10 Years

Shortened by:

• Water intrusion
• Weather exposure
• Electrical issues

Extended by:

• Protecting from standing water
• Prompt repair of damaged overlays

Main Control Pack

Average Life: 10-15 Years

Shortened by:

• Electrical surges
• Corrosion
• Moisture intrusion

Extended by:

• Surge protection
• Proper maintenance
• Prompt repair of leaks

UV Systems & Ozonators

Average Life: 3-5 Years

Shortened by:

• Normal aging
• Electrical failures

Extended by:

• Routine inspection
• Scheduled replacement

Filters

Average Life: 12-24 Months

Shortened by:

• Heavy use
• Poor cleaning practices
• Excessive debris

Extended by:

• Routine cleaning
• Professional filter maintenance
• Filter rotation programs

Cover Lifters

Average Life: 5-10 Years

Shortened by:

• Waterlogged covers
• Snow loads
• Forcing the mechanism

Extended by:

• Removing snow before opening
• Smooth operation
• Regular inspection

Acrylic Shell

Average Life: 20+ Years

Shortened by:

• Impact damage
• Poor foundations
• Improper installation

Extended by:

• Proper support
• Good water chemistry
• Keeping the spa covered

The most economical repair is the one you never need.

The following simple habits can significantly reduce repair frequency:

✅ Maintain balanced water chemistry

✅ Keep filters clean

✅ Remove snow from covers

✅ Monitor water level

✅ Check for leaks regularly

✅ Notify Snow Valley Spas when issues first appear

✅ Schedule preventative maintenance

✅ Bring water samples in for complimentary testing when concerns arise

At Snow Valley Spas, our goal is not only to repair your spa when needed, but to help you maximize its lifespan, reduce repair costs, and protect your investment for years to come.

A cover is one of the most expensive consumable items on a hot tub.

A cover lifter helps:

• Prevent dropping the cover
• Reduce strain on hinges and seams
• Extend cover life
• Improve ease of use

Without a cover lifter, covers are more likely to become damaged, waterlogged, and require premature replacement.

Yes.

Spas that are sunk into decks, enclosed by structures, or installed with limited access can require significantly more labor to service.

To minimize future service costs, we recommend:

• Maintaining access to the equipment compartment
• Allowing working space around the spa
• Consulting Snow Valley Spas before final placement

If components cannot be accessed safely, additional labor or equipment may be required for repairs.

If your spa stops circulating or heating during freezing weather:

Do NOT Drain The Spa

Draining a hot tub in winter can lead to:

• Frozen plumbing
• Cracked pipes
• Damaged pumps
• Broken heaters
• Shell damage

Even after draining, water often remains inside plumbing lines and equipment where it can freeze and expand.

What Should I Do Instead?

• Leave power on if possible
• Place a small space heater inside the equipment compartment
• Keep the heater at least 8 inches away from components
• Contact Snow Valley Spas immediately for service

Prompt action may prevent thousands of dollars in freeze damage.

The best way to maximize the lifespan of your hot tub is to focus on prevention rather than repair.

We recommend:

• Maintaining proper water chemistry
• Cleaning or replacing filters regularly
• Draining and refilling water every 3-4 months
• Cleaning and protecting your cover
• Removing snow from covers during winter
• Scheduling annual inspections
• Addressing leaks and warning signs early
• Protecting the spa from rodents and pests
• Keeping the cabinet area clean and dry

Properly maintained spas often exceed their expected component lifespan and provide many years of reliable operation.

The majority of repairs we see are related to:

• Poor water chemistry
• Excessive scale buildup
• Dirty filters
• Water leaks left unaddressed
• Waterlogged covers
• Rodent damage
• Operating issues discovered too late

Most of these issues can be reduced or prevented through routine maintenance and annual inspections.