Arctic Spas are renowned for their quality and performance, especially in cold climates. Manufactured by Blue Falls Manufacturing Limited in Alberta, Canada, these hot tubs and swim spas are equipped with advanced features and built to withstand harsh conditions. Ensuring your Arctic Spa remains in top condition requires using legitimate Arctic Spa parts and understanding common maintenance procedures. This article provides an in-depth look at Arctic Spa parts, troubleshooting, and general maintenance.
Understanding Arctic Spa Components
Arctic Spas incorporate a variety of components, each playing a crucial role in the overall functionality and longevity of the spa.
Jets
Arctic Spas utilize various jet sizes and styles to provide a customized hydrotherapy experience. These include:
- 5" Jets: Often featuring a single pulse that is adjustable.
- 3" Jets: Available in single pulse, directional, or neck jet configurations.
- Specialty Jets: Such as chrome jets, Monsoon jets, therapy air jets, and waterfall jets.
Heaters
Maintaining the water temperature is crucial for enjoying your Arctic Spa. Different heaters are used depending on the spa's model and year:
- Replacement Heater (2007-Current): Used in all Arctic Spas manufactured from 2007 to the present.
- Replacement Heater (1999-2006): A 90-degree heater used in Arctic Spas manufactured between 1999 and 2006.
Pumps
Pumps are essential for circulating water and powering the jets. Arctic Spas, including models like the Arctic Cub, Glacier XL, Klondiker, Summit, Kodiak, and Tundra, can be configured with multiple pumps to enhance performance. The terminology for hot tub motors and pumps can be confusing. The motor is the electrical component that turns the impeller, connected to the pump by a shaft. The pump end contains water and therefore must be sealed around the shaft that connects it to the motor. This is one potential site of failure in a hot tub motor/pump. If debris gets into the pump it is also possible for the impeller to get jammed or damaged, which is another possible cause of pump failure.
Read also: Arctic Spa Fox: A detailed review of features and performance.
Topside Controls
The topside control panel allows users to adjust temperature, jet settings, and other spa functions. A replacement topside is available for all Arctic Spas from 2007 through current models.
Plumbing Parts
Arctic Spas often use generic Waterway and Rising Dragon parts, including manifolds with 2, 4, 6, and 8 ports, typically with 3/4" barb water connections. Suction parts are generally made by Rising Dragon.
Filters and Ozonators
Maintaining water quality is essential for a clean and safe spa experience.
- Filter Systems: Some Silver Sentinel type filter systems use 2 filters and may include a rescue bag inside the skimmer.
- Ozonators: Systems like the Peak 1 and Peak 2 ozone generators help sanitize the water. Some spas are also outfitted with the Onzen salt water system.
Other components
Pressure switch used on all Arctic Spas.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Addressing problems promptly can prevent further damage and extend the life of your Arctic Spa.
Read also: Finding Spa Parts Suppliers
Topside Control Malfunctions
One common issue is water intrusion in the topside control, which can cause the system to malfunction. Symptoms include:
- Lights turning on, but no pumps working when plugged into the standard panel slot.
- Pump 1 running at high speed for a few minutes when plugged into the optional side panel port.
Based on these symptoms, it is likely a topside issue.
Pump Problems
Hot tub pump problems can usually be repaired: you probably don’t need a new pump! The two most common problems with hot tub pumps are the seals and the motor. The seals can be replaced usually for under $100 and the motor can be rebuilt for under $250, often less! Spa pumps are usually compatible between different hot tub brands.
Typical hot tub pumps fail more often because they are internally cooled, allowing moist or dusty air to contaminate the interior components of the pump.
Replacing a Pump: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Close the Ball Valves: Turn off the ball valves on both the pressure and suction sides of the pump to minimize water flow. Ball valves run in the manner that when they cross the line they’re off, when they go inline they’re open.
- Disconnect the Ground Wire: Disconnect the ground wire and cut any zip ties securing the pump.
- Disconnect the Pump Power Cord: Unplug the pump power cord.
- Remove the Mounting Nut: Locate and remove the mounting nut holding the pump mount system together.
- Undo the Unions: Carefully undo the unions, noting the placement of O-rings.
- Remove the Wet End (if necessary): If the wet end is in good condition, remove it from the old pump. Loosen the impeller using a 9/16 wrench while holding the pillar still.
- Install the New Pump: Attach the wet end to the new pump, ensuring the impeller is snug against the shaft.
- Reassemble the Pump: Set the pump back in place, reattach the pump mount, and tighten the unions.
- Bleed Air from the System: Leave the pressure side union slightly loose to bleed air out of the wet end, preventing airlocks.
Air Locks
Air locks occur when air becomes trapped in the lines or equipment, often after a water change or when the water level drops too low.
Read also: Essential Guide to SaluSpa
Identifying and Fixing Air Locks
- Identify the Affected Pump: Determine which pump is not circulating water.
- Check the Shaft and Reset Button: Ensure the shaft is spinning and the reset button is engaged.
- Loosen the Union: Use a hammer and screwdriver to carefully loosen the union, allowing air to escape.
- Allow Air and Water to Escape: Let the air and water escape for a few minutes until the pump runs smoothly.
- Tighten the Union: Snug the union back up to prevent leaks.
Maintaining Your Arctic Spa
Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your Arctic Spa in optimal condition.
Water Chemistry
Maintaining proper water chemistry is crucial for preventing corrosion, scaling, and bacterial growth. Regularly test and adjust the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels.
Filter Cleaning
Clean the filters regularly to ensure efficient water circulation and filtration. Depending on the filter system, you may need to clean or replace the filters every few months.
Jet Maintenance
Inspect and clean the jets periodically to remove debris and ensure proper function.
General Inspection
Regularly inspect the spa for leaks, cracks, or other damage. Address any issues promptly to prevent further problems.
Purchasing Arctic Spa Parts
When purchasing replacement parts, it's crucial to use legitimate Arctic Spa parts to ensure compatibility and longevity. Hot Tub Outpost is an independent spa parts dealer/distributor, and is not owned by or affiliated with Arctic Spas or Blue Falls Manufacturing.
Available Parts
- Jets: Replacement 5" Tri-Face Single Pulse Threaded Jets and 5" Turbo Single Pulse Threaded Jets.
- Heaters: Replacement heaters for various Arctic Spa models and years.
- Topside Controls: Replacement topsides for Arctic Spas from 2007 to current models.
- Pressure Switches: Used on all Arctic Spas.
- Other Components: Manifolds, suction parts, and ozonators.
Warranty
All Arctic Spa parts come directly from the manufacturer in Alberta, Canada, and are covered with a one-year warranty from the time of purchase.
Arctic Spa Models
Arctic Spas offers a range of models to suit different needs and preferences:
- Arctic Cub: A compact hot tub with room for up to 5, configurable with 1, 2, or 3 pumps and up to 54 jets.
- Arctic Glacier XL: A larger version of the Glacier, with 4 deep seats, up to 3 pumps, and 65 jets.
- Arctic Klondiker: Designed for people under 5'6", with seating for up to 6, 1-5 pumps, and up to 61 jets.
- Arctic Summit: Room for up to 6 with 4 jetted massage seats, 1-5 pumps, and up to 61 jets.
- Arctic Summit XL: An extended version of the Summit, accommodating up to 9 adults.
- Arctic Kodiak: Similar to the Summit but with a lounger and 4 jetted out seats.
- Arctic Tundra: Fits up to 7 people, configurable with up to 5 pumps and 61 jets.
Swim Spas
Arctic Spas also manufactures a line of swim spas, referred to as 'all weather pools,' suitable for workouts and relaxation.
- Arctic Kingfisher: Offers maximum swimming room with stairs on one side.
- Arctic Wolverine: A premium hybrid model for advanced swimmers with a Niagara Counter Current Swim System.
- Arctic Okanagan: Features a swim-up bar with LED lights, two stools, and an ice bucket.