How to Troubleshoot Common Issues with Vortex™ and Fisher™ Spas

Spas are known for their reliable performance, often functioning seamlessly for years. However, even the best quality spa pools have the occassional issue.

At Spa World, we’ve been in the industry since 1985—and when it comes to spas, there isn’t much we haven’t seen.

In this article. We’ll help you understand the causes, problems, and solutions to your spa issue to so you can get your spa working again – and back to relaxing

Please note: This article is for Fisher Spas™ and Vortex Spas™. If you own a different brand of spa pool please contact the company you bought it off.

This article covers the troubleshooting guides for the following issues:

• Vortex™ and Fisher™ Spas Heating Issues
• Vortex™ and Fisher™ Spas Power Tripping Issues
• Vortex™ and Fisher™ Spas Lighting Issues
• Vortex™ and Fisher™ Spas Touchpad/Controller Issues

Important: All electrical work must be carried out by a licensed electrician. Any electrical information included here, whether it is troubleshooting or other instructions, are provided for use by a licensed electrician only. Local electrical codes supersede any information found here.

How to Diagnose and Fix Spa Lighting Issues in My Vortex™ and Fisher™ Spa

Lighting issues in your spa can detract from its ambiance and functionality, especially if lights flicker or fail to turn on. Proper lighting is essential for creating a relaxing environment.

Learn how to diagnose and fix lighting issues in your Vortex™ and Fisher™ spa in our detailed article below.

Why does the health light stay red in a Vortex™ Spa?

The health light in a Vortex™ Spa is designed to indicate the spa’s operational status and water quality. If the health light remains red, it may indicate an issue that needs attention.

Learn more about why the health light stays red in your Vortex™ Spa and find solutions in our detailed article below.

Important note: Vortex Spas™ has two health lights. This troubleshooting guide is for the Vortex™ health light, not the UV health light.

How to Fix Heating Issues with My Vortex™ or Fisher Spa

Heating issues can make it difficult to enjoy your spa, especially if it’s not maintaining the desired temperature.

From thermostat adjustments to checking the heater element, the guide below covers troubleshooting steps to help you resolve heating problems and restore a comfortable spa experience.

Is it normal for spa external heat pump to leak water?

Yes, it's normal to see water at the base of your heat pump, and the amount depends on the humidity levels in the air. When the heat pump is running, it collects water through condensation and releases it from the bottom.

However, it also could indicate a problem with the external heat pump.

To check if the water is caused by condensation, you can turn off the heat pump from the spa's settings (Set H.PMP to OFF) and monitor for any puddles underneath the heat pump in the next few days.

If there are no puddles, then it is confirmed to be condensation. However, if you notice a puddle underneath your heat pump and it hasn't rained, there could be an issue with the heat pump. We recommend consulting a spa expert to inspect the heat pump.

What should I do if my SpaNet^® heat pump has an error?

If you are experiencing an error with your SpaNet^® heat pump, here are the recommended steps to follow:

Within its warranty period

If the heat pump is under warranty, you may reach out to Spanet^® directly. Spanet^® will guide you through the troubleshooting process and help identify the cause of the error.

Out of warranty

If your heat pump is no longer covered by warranty, you or the technician can contact SpaNet^® onsite for further support.

Important reminders:

• If you bought your heat pump from Spa World™, contact Spa World™ for warranty support. SpaNet^® only handles warranties for products bought from their Sydney Store.
• Until the heat pump error is fixed, the spa will keep using its internal heater to keep the water temperature regulated.

How to Troubleshoot and Fix Touchpad and Controller Issues in Your Vortex™ and Fisher™ Spa

An unresponsive touchpad or controller can limit your ability to enjoy and control your spa’s features. Common issues range from stuck buttons to connectivity problems, often requiring simple troubleshooting.

Learn how to troubleshoot and fix touchpad and controller issues in your Vortex™ and Fisher™ spa in our detailed article below.

Vortex™ and Fisher™ Spas Power Tripping Issues

Why does the ELCB/RCD keep on my Vortex Spa™ tripping?

ELCB/RCD tripping can be caused by electrical issues or water exposure. Try these steps:

• Step 1: Ensure spa is on a dedicated power circuit
• Step 2: Check water level, lower if overfilled
• Step 3: Turn off power, remove side panels, allow equipment bay to dry
• Step 4: Inspect power cable for damage
• Step 5: Contact electrician or spa dealer if problem persists

Vortex™ and Fisher™ Spas Jets, Pump, Suctions, and Air blower Issues

Are you experiencing issues with the jets, pump, suction, or air blower in your Vortex™ or Fisher™ Spa?

It's important to address them quickly to ensure you can continue enjoying the ultimate relaxation and therapeutic benefits. Our easy-to-follow troubleshooting steps below can help you identify and fix the problem.

Why is the air blower pump in my Vortex™ Spa or Fisher™ Spa not working or creating bubbles?

Your spa's air blower or bubble pump may not be working due to various reasons. You may refer to the guide below to help you fix the problem.

Sometimes the blower may fail to operate if the spa's control system has been programmed with incorrect settings for the controller type.

Here's how to check the TYPE settings on SV Series™ and SV Mini 1 and 2 Controllers.

• SV Series™ Controllers
• SV Mini 1 and 2 Controllers

Why are the suctions in my Vortex™ and Fisher™ Spa not working or only one working?

Suctions in spa pools draw in water for filtration and circulation purposes. These suction fittings contain a filter that removes dirt and debris from the water as it enters the spa and operates only when the pumps are in operation.

However, if the filter area gets blocked up, it will start to pull water from the suction area. To prevent this, the suctions are equipped with check valves which only open up when there is insufficient suction in the filter box area. Such measures ensure that only filtered water passes through the pumps.

Keeping the filters clean and replacing them when necessary is important to prevent this issue from happening.

As a general rule, it is recommended to rinse your spa filters every 1-2 weeks and replace them every 12 months, depending on how often you use your spa.

Click the button below to read our detailed guide on how to clean your spa filters and the best products to use.

Why are my spa jets or pump surging?

If you’re noticing surging in your spa jets or pump, it can be both disruptive and a sign of an underlying issue. Surging often results from blockages or pressure imbalances, which can affect the overall spa experience.

Learn more about why your spa jets or pump are surging including steps to resolve this issue in our detailed article below.

Why does the B.spd and ramp appear when I press the blower button?

B.SPD refers to blower speed. The blower in your system is adjustable, so you can control its speed using the Up and Down arrows on the interface. By pressing the Up arrow, you can increase the blower speed, and by pressing the Down arrow, you can decrease it.

Ramp happens when you press the blower button twice in a row in quick succession. It means that the blower will ramp the speed up and down on its own.

Other Vortex™ and Fisher™ Spa Issues

This section covers a range of issues that can affect your Vortex™ or Fisher™ spa, including noisy spa, draining and suction problems, and more.

Why does the waterfall feature in my Vortex™ Spa leaking?

The waterfall feature enhances the overall ambiance and relaxation of Vortex™ Spas, and it is important to ensure that they are working as they should.

If you are experiencing leaking issues with the waterfall feature in your Vortex™, there could be several possible reasons for this problem:

• Loose connections. Check all connections and fittings related to the waterfall feature. Make sure they are tightly secured and not causing any water to leak.
• Damaged or worn-out seals. Over time, seals within the waterfall feature can degrade or become damaged, leading to leaks. Inspect the seals and replace them if necessary.
• Cracked or damaged components. Examine the waterfall feature for any visible cracks or damage. Even minor cracks can cause leaks. If any components are found to be damaged, they may need to be repaired or replaced.

Why is my Vortex™ and Fisher™ spa not draining?

If you're experiencing difficulty with the water not draining from your spa, there are a few possible reasons why this is happening.

• Kinked hose. Check the drainage hose connected to your hot tub. If it is kinked or bent, it can restrict the flow of water and prevent proper drainage. Straighten out any kinks or bends in the hose to allow for unrestricted water flow.
• Faulty drain valve. The drain valve in your hot tub may be faulty or not functioning properly. If the valve is stuck or not opening, it will prevent water from draining out. Inspect the drain valve for any signs of damage or blockage. Clean or repair the valve if possible, or consider replacing it if necessary.

Why is my spa ozone not bubbling?

If your spa’s ozone isn’t bubbling as it should, there could be various underlying issues.

Learn more about why your spa ozone isn’t bubbling and explore causes and solutions in our detailed article below.

Why does my spa make noise?

While some spas may typically have a gentle noise, excessive or unusual noises can be a sign of underlying issues. Understanding the common causes of spa noise can help you identify and address the problem.

To help you troubleshoot this issue, you may follow the guide below.

Please note: Spa noises are often hard to diagnose as users describe things differently. If a technician is required, try to record a video of the spa noise. The video can assist the technicians in accurately assessing the problem and determining the best course of action for resolving it.

Why are the pumps running but no water moving in my Vortex Spas™?

Here's how to address this issue:

• Step 1. Add water to spa fill mark
• Step 2. Remove filters and flush pipes with garden hose
• Step 3. If unsuccessful, turn off power and slightly loosen pump union to release air
• Step 4. Once water flows, retighten union
• Step 5. Check all valves are open

Who can I contact if I'm having troubles with the SmartStream™ System?

SpaNet™ SmartStream™ is a stereo sound system that is purpose-built to emit quality sound from a Vortex Spa™.

Using the system’s Bluetooth and Hi-Fi and Wi-Fi module, SmartStream™ can allow you to enjoy the power of sound in many ways.

If you are experiencing any problems with the SmartStream™ System, you may reach out to SpaNet^® for assistance. Depending on your warranty, they can help resolve issues related to Bluetooth, sound, or connectivity problems with the Wi-Fi.

If the problem is determined to be with the speakers, Spa World^® will take the necessary steps to address it.

Got more questions?

Talk to us on live chat, or email us your spa questions and we'll be happy to help!