Why am I getting a FLO code?

Hi Tanner Drost here with the hot tub man and I wanted to talk quick about FLO codes on your hot tub. This is the most common error code on a hot tub, so it’s important to understand what it means because once you get one, your hot tub will stop heating.  If that happens in the winter, you gotta think quick!

SO what does a flo code mean? A flo code means what it sounds like, there is an issue with Flow or particularly the flow of water moving past your sensors and the heater element. Now this can be caused by all sorts of reasons so here are the most common.

Number 1: You don’t have enough water in your hot tub. You would be surprised how often we will come out to diagnose a hot tub issue that turns out to be the water level is too low, and it’s gulping in air.  A good rule of thumb is, the water needs to be above the filter intake. If you can hear slurping, your water is too low. The sensors, pick up that there is air in the system, so it turns off your heater element to save itself from burning out.

Number 2: Dirty filters! A plugged up filter is going to restrict your flow and will give you a flo code. You want to rinse and clean your filters regularly, and when they stop becoming white, it’s time to change them out. Dirty filters are also a breading ground for bacteria, so keep up with your filter maintenance! We sell filters and filter cleaners at a discount price if you need.

Number 3: Your pump has failed. There are all sorts of different kinds and sizes of hot tub pumps, but there will always be 1 dedicated hot tub pump that is responsible for pushing water through your filter and past your heater.  This pump is called pump number 1, and it turns on every time your hot tub needs to heat or if it’s in a filter cycle. Pump 1 will almost always fail much quicker than any additional pumps because of how much more it works.  How to check if this is potentially the culprit, is to reset your breaker then try to turn that pump on. If nothing happens, this may be the reason for the code.

Number 4:  A faulty sensor. This is less likely to happen with more modern packs as most have 2 sensors so if one starts misbehaving the other will notice. However, older spas, particularly Sundance and Jacuzzi have a mechanical flow switch which are prone to fail regularly.  If your water is moving fine, yet you’re getting a flo code, this may be something to look into.

Number 5: Blockage, I have pulled all sorts of thing out of hot tub plumbing. The most common is kid’s toys.  But anything from hair, to leaves, to some small hot tub component that broke free can end up in your pump or heater tube and slow the flow of water.  This is why it is important to always have a filter in your hot tub. If you are going to wash your filters, have a second set to put in while the other is washed.

For all of these Flo Code reasons, The Hot Tub Man can help. Whether you’re feeling handy and want to tackle the repair yourself and need parts and advice, or if you would like the professionals to handle it, we’re here for you.

Call 403 550 5140 for more helpful advice.