Hot tub and spa plumbing is made up of various components, such as pipe and fittings. This type of plumbing is commonly used to avoid having to constantly change the water pressure.
A Spa Plumbing Loop begins at the main drain and the skimmer. The water then flows under the pump impeller, which pushes the water through the filter and heater.
After the water has been heated and treated, it's pushed into the return manifold. The air is pulled through the smaller and larger pipes, and the water goes back to the spa through the jets.
Sometimes, water can escape The Loop and reach the ground below your spa. This page shows how to repair a leaky spa. It's usually caused by equipment or a bad joint.
You can make your own repairs to the plumbing of your hot tub or spa using a few simple tools and materials.
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HOT TUB PVC PLUMBING SAWS
If you ask for a PVC saw, you're gonna end up with a basic hacksaw. Or, you can get a better deal by paying more for a saw that looks pretty but has small wood heads.
You will cut through a 1" PVC pipe in 15 strokes. However, there are times when you cannot get the length needed to make a straight and complete cut.
Since these tools are very cumbersome, they are often not used when performing hot tub plumbing repairs. Also, they don't fit well under the cabinet.
When it comes to cutting PVC pipes, I usually use a Reciprocating Saw or a Jig Saw. These two work well for me since they allow me to get the job done quickly and straight. However, they also have some limitations when it comes to fit.
A Cable Saw is a type of wire hanger that cuts through PVC. It can be used to wrap a tight pipe and cut through 25 strokes.
In a pinch, wrap a short handle on the end of a hacksaw blade and use duct tape to secure it. These saws can take up to a hundred strokes.
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HOT TUB PVC PIPE AND FITTINGS
PIPES:
There are two types of PVC pipes used in hot tubs and spas: the rigid and the flexible. The flexible pipes are used for the return pipe.
Rigid PVC pipe of pipe is commonly used for draining and suctioning the pump. It can also be used on the suction pipe and the pipe from the skimmer.
Instead of using flexible PVC on the suction side, use rigid pipe or plastic pipe down below. Also, use flexible pipe up top to avoid getting stuck under the vacuum.
Most hot tubs and spas are plumbed with 1.5 inch PVC. However, larger models may use 2 inch PVC. Also, make sure to measure the Outside Diameter of the pipe to be 2 inches or 1-7/8 inches. 2" pipe has an OD of about 3" and an ID of 2. The Air Line is usually 1" or 3/4" Flex PVC.
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FITTINGS:
Many types of PVC fittings are commonly found in most Home stores and a good local hardware store. These include couplings, unions, female and male threaded adapters, and more.
Use Pressure Fittings instead of Drain Fittings. These are designed to have a deeper socket than Drains. They can also be glue-able surfaces.
These are not for use with hot tub or spa plumbing. Also, they should not be used with schedule 40 or schedule 20 PVC.
Grey Fittings are made from CPVC or Schedule 80 PVC, and they can be used for making connections to a variety of heaters. They are not required when making connections to a spa.
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GLUES AND SEALANTS FOR HOT TUBS
Fitting and smoothening the pipes and connectors using PVC glue is a process that involves making sure that the pipe is smooth and secure. This procedure is not done using threaded connections.
A good PVC cleaner is used to remove the surface residue of a flexible pipe. A good primer is used to prevent the formation of new slick patches.
A Primer is also a pipe cleaner, but it rapidly softens the pipe, producing heat for a stronger bond. This product is also commonly used for treating flexible pipe.
For a Threaded PVC fitting, you need thread sealants. To make sure the threads stay attached, smear a layer of Silicone over them, then wrap several times with Teflon Tape.
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  If you have any other questions about pool and spa products please do let us know - we are here to help!