Fix Jacuzzi, Hot Tub, or Pool Pump That Only Hums

We were in the process of cleaning our jacuzzi tub when we attempted to turn on the jets and the pump motor just hummed. I knew we had power due to the hum but the motor was just hung up. Watch the video to see how to get your motor running again.

[@Eric-vv6ov]

I can’t thank you enough. You just saved me a $300 plumbers bill. My motor was mounted sideways, so I couldn’t see the hole in the middle. So it took me about 15 minutes laying sideways on the floor trying to find that hole with my finger. And mine wasn’t a flat head screw, it was a Phillips head, but your remedy worked. I bet a plumber would have charged me for a whole new motor and labor.

[@TightWadDIY]

That’s great!

[@4everBleu]

Mines sideways 🤦🏾‍♂️ I’m trying to fix it right now ahaa

[@bbmello1]

just wanted to thank you buddy, tried to get our hot tub started after being closed for the summer and was not having success, this video helped me solve the issue easily and saved me probably several hundreds of dollars. much appreciated from canada

[@TightWadDIY]

That’s great!

[@JustinSanak]

I know it's years late, but thank you for making this video. You saved me from an estimated $500 repair and outsmarted three plumbers who worked with the previous owner of the home.

[@TightWadDIY]

Justin Sanak That’s great!

[@kshar9133]

Had same issue with my jacuzzi tub. I followed your instructions and it worked perfectly! Thank you so much for this video. I couldn’t find a service tech in my area…..dealing with the issue for 3 weeks. You saved me a lot of money and time….and I’m proud of myself for getting it fixed!

[@TightWadDIY]

Yay! I’m glad it worked for you too!

[@GoldMedalAlan]

I’m the least handy, least motivated person I know. And this video just saved me paycheck’s worth of a service call. Thank you!!

[@TightWadDIY]

Haha. You can’t say you aren’t handy if you took the time to look up the video AND fix your pump! Congrats!

[@tonycangelosi01]

Dude, thank you soooo much. We had to leave our house due to interior damage from Hurricane Ida. As we're waiting on repairs, we noticed the tub pump stopped working. It's been sitting there for months now. Thanks to this video, it's working just the way it's supposed to!

[@TightWadDIY]

Sorry for your loss. I’m glad this helped you get the pump going again.

[@MrUnknownUser01]

Great video. A very straightforward video solving a problem with an easy solution that might be over-looked. Thanks!

[@TightWadDIY]

Name Not Available Thank you. I hope it helped you.

[@ashamp91]

I had also made an appointment, but after seeing this I twisted the pump shaft, reset the outlet, turned it on and it worked. I then filled the tub with water and ran clorox water for about 15 minutes, and it cleaned out the pipes beautifully with lots of force. Thanks so much!!

[@TightWadDIY]

Edward Powell Thata great! I’m glad it worked for you.

[@dalepowers4046]

Thanks for the video! Described my situation exactly. Don’t use the tub often and decided to clean out the pipes, but just humming. Took 10 seconds and a screwdriver. I appreciate your help!!

[@TightWadDIY]

That’s great Dale! I’m glad you were able to get yours going again too!

[@valmikabeneteau7229]

Also years later. Thank You for saving me from buying a $15 start solenoid (which wouldn't have fixed it). Actually I did buy it but found your video in time and was able to cancel the order. I kind of thought it might just be tight but couldn't figure out how to turn it without draining the Jacuzzi and removing the pump

[@TightWadDIY]

My pleasure. I’m glad you figured it out.

[@carleenflynn8793]

Thank you for this video!!! It saved us $500 repair. The repair people told us we needed to replace motor! This was such an easy fix! Thanks again!

[@TightWadDIY]

I’m glad it worked for you!

[@ggazzara1115]

I wonder if the repair people would do the quick fix as above and charge you for a new motor.

[@TightWadDIY]

@@ggazzara1115 Hopefully not but some people simply aren’t honest.

[@nwman97]

Perfect. It did take a little longer and I used a power drill to turn the motor for what seemed like more than a minute. But once the build up was broken down, I felt the difference. When I power the motor, it started right up. Thanks! I thought i had to replace the motor and was delighted with this simple fix.

[@TightWadDIY]

nwman97 That’s great! I’m glad it worked for you.

[@Krayzeeblond1]

Thank you so much for the power drill tip! I was using a screw driver and it didn’t feel like anything was loosening up. I was starting to get worried that this might not work for my situation so I came to the comments and found yours! It took several minutes running the drill both ways and it works perfectly now! Thank you!

[@jimchalenko8014]

Thank you for this video! Took me about 3 minutes to fix this thanks to you. My problem was exactly what you showed on this video.

[@TightWadDIY]

Jim Chalenko Great! I’m glad it worked for you.

[@annraysunkcaj1903]

Wish me luck!!

[@TightWadDIY]

Rayann Jackson You can do it!

[@JaiDevereaux]

Year 2022 checking in to let you know that this video is still saving people a ton of money and trouble. Thank You!!

[@TightWadDIY]

Great! I’m glad it’s still helpful!

[@ggazzara1115]

Yes, I'm about to try this fix myself. Thanks

[@281powerstroke]

Thank you very much, its fixed after 6 yrs of not working. I was about to order a new one. You saved me $200.00

[@joseguzman3671]

Thanks for the video, just bought a house a couldn't figure out this humming sound... thought motor must be blown, need a new one. Decided to take a look in the youtube world first and Walla, ur video pops up, easy as popping open the door where the pump is and a turn of a screw saved me $$$. Like I said thanks alot!!!!!!!😁😁😁👍👍

[@TightWadDIY]

Jose Guzman Glad I could help! Be sure to subscribe so you can see when I posts new repairs and tips. Happy Thanksgiving!

[@sarahfrew4186]

Thank you for teaching me how to fix my jacuzzi tub. I’m very grateful!

[@TightWadDIY]

Happy to help!

[@rossburnett1960]

I was just about to head out and just buy a new motor but thought I would do some quick research. This did the trick!!!! Much appreciated sir!

[@TightWadDIY]

That’s great! I’m glad it worked for you too!

[@Marie-BlancheHarles]

Thank you so much ! We were about to buy new parts for $$$, but thanks to you, we saved a lot!!!

[@TightWadDIY]

That’s great!

[@pfroo40]

Thanks for the video, my pump has the impeller screw facing the other side so no way I would have seen it or known it was there without your advice!

[@TightWadDIY]

Paul Throgmorton I’m glad you were able to get it working again!

[@eh980]

Just saved me a lot of work thank you. Was fixing to pull the motor and spend some money 💰🤦🏻‍♂️.

[@TightWadDIY]

Great! I’m glad you found the video!

[@patricialee774]

This is awesome!!! Thank you for sharing and posting this solution. After several calls to plumbers, plumbing supply, pool supply places and waiting on calls back, you solved the problem!

[@TightWadDIY]

Patricia Lee Alright! I’m glad I could help you!

[@TheCookiedoe]

Unfortunately, when they built the house, they tiled all around the tub and there is no access panel so we had to knock tile out to try this but it worked! Thank you so much for this video.

[@TightWadDIY]

TheCookiedoe That’s crazy! That builder needs to get a new job!

[@santanalbp]

@@TightWadDIY thank you for the video. I have a similar issue. My tub is humming, but the jets wont start. The builders did tilt over the access in the front and back sides of the tub. I can see silicone was used to close the tile, but I am not sure which side to cut. Is the motor typically opposite of the faucet? Also, do you have any suggestions on how to close the tile so it's easily accessible or know what to use to close the tile back up?

[@jonbugh]

I know this is old, but it got my pump working again that hasn’t worked in over a year! The only issue I’m having is if I don’t use it for a few days, the motor sticks again and I have to use the screwdriver trick to get it going. I’m assuming it will need to be replaced at some point, but this has helped a lot!!!

[@TightWadDIY]

Yep. It’s not going to work like new.

[@jaku_za]

Bud....thanks for this. I was about the get people to come and have a look at wiring etc. This saved me time and $$$. Cheers man

[@TightWadDIY]

That’s great! I’m glad it’s working again.

[@wowchad]

Gotta love a free & easy fix, thanks for the vid! I was fix’n to use a needle-nose vice-grips on the shaft like we’ve done on our 8’x12’ spa which woulda been a waste of time…now onto fixing the leaky jet on backside of tub…this s/b fun, nope 😅

[@TightWadDIY]

I’m glad you found it helpful.

[@alechilchey9280]

Thank you so much I was about to get a electrician or plumber to fix it! I was honestly expecting a 3 hour long fix but this only to 10 seconds!

[@TightWadDIY]

Yes! I’m glad it worked for you too!

[@Ghodzilla]

Big thanks, fixed in minutes. Was avoiding this job like the plague for awhile.

[@TightWadDIY]

It’s such an easy fix too!

[@tiffanyeagleman6630]

Thank you so much for this video!! Saved this tired Mama who just wanted a hot bath!

[@kharlie22]

Definitely gonna try this! Already have bleach water in the tub turned on the timer, pushed the button and all I got was a hum. Gonna let the water sit anyway to let the kids bath toys and the bath mat soak a bit.

[@TightWadDIY]

This should get your motor running again!

[@trevbjo]

Thank you, that's all it took to work again, exactly as you said there was a screw that I spun, then turned it on and presto... It worked. KZbin is great way to do just about anything instructions

[@TightWadDIY]

I’m glad you were able to get it running again. Thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@cashncoffee]

Great mine has not worked in 3 years. I dreaded changing the motor. Can’t wait to use the old flathead!!!

[@lwiles2899]

Did it work for you?

[@lizseaman1231]

EXACTLY the problem! Thank you so much! I somehow had sewer flies nesting in the jacuzzi pipes and I just flushed those buggers out!

[@TightWadDIY]

I’m glad it worked for you too!

[@ktulu909]

Legit just saved my tub. Thanks SO much!

[@TightWadDIY]

Glad I could help!

[@FlyinGecko]

you saved me a service call!!

[@jimmccann6402]

This worked exactly as shown. THANK YOU this help!!!

[@TightWadDIY]

That’s great news!

[@connersmyle2797]

Thank you so much, that was a quick fix and saved me a pile of money and time finding a plumber to do it since the first 4 I called said they wouldn't work on whirlpool tubs!

[@TightWadDIY]

Conner Smyle I’m glad you were able to get yours working again. Thanks for taking the time to comment. Be sure to subscribe.

[@karenneedles4933]

Thanks so much for your help. We have a Strong spa. I did exactly as you demonstrated, and it is working perfectly.

[@TightWadDIY]

Karen Needles That’s great! Hopefully it’s a long term solution for you!

[@ironhorses0802]

Yes indeed! Thank you. Outdoor hot tub just hummed after starting up for winter. Did what you did and tada! Thanks. Much appreciated.

[@TightWadDIY]

That’s great! I’m glad it worked for you too!

[@braddavis1643]

Great video! Thanks for saving me the price and pain of replacing the pump!

[@TightWadDIY]

You are welcome! I’m glad it worked for you too!

[@directenough9494]

Thanks so much! This was the most helpful video I have watched. Thanks again mate!!!

[@TightWadDIY]

Jason Graham You are welcome. Be sure to subscribe! I have almost 200 DIY style videos.

[@richardchapman4267]

Thanks Bud !!! Easy fix thanks to you !!!! Took longer to retrieve screwdrivers than to fix ...

[@TightWadDIY]

Richard Chapman You are welcome. You may have to do it again next time if you don't use it frequently.

[@shawnbuscholl550]

Thank you so much for this! We have our Jacuzzi tub working again!

[@TightWadDIY]

That’s great! I’m glad it worked for you too!

[@puddle_pirate95]

Awesome, saved me an expensive service call, thank you!

[@TightWadDIY]

Tom Boyd I’m glad you found the video!

[@amyjscudder]

Thank you so much, very easy to follow and adapt to our pump. 🎉

[@robertdelaplante7326]

You have so much information. I will try the plug, and let you know.

[@tentop5674]

This video must have saved 1000’s of dollar in total from all the viewers,

[@TightWadDIY]

I sure hope it did! That’s why I’m here!

[@GabeDavid]

great idea now fingers cross not burning down my motor. thanks for sharing

[@TightWadDIY]

It should be fine.

[@katd6580]

THANK YOU!!! Did this today.....working fine...

[@TightWadDIY]

That’s great! I’m glad it worked for you too!

[@elizabethmod9327]

🎉nice!! Fixed mine - thank you!

[@TightWadDIY]

Glad it helped!

[@lilred4224]

Thank you so much for this video I'm a plumber and didn't know this one😂

[@TightWadDIY]

Happy to help!

[@philscreations1113]

I,ve got the same problem going on, what a terrible design.If i would have know this would not have purchased tub.Thanks for the video.

[@TightWadDIY]

Boltbusters.com I think it is just the nature of this style motor. They aren't used frequently enough to prevent corrosion. They are also in a room that has high humidity levels which isn't ideal either.

[@tedcomeau2671]

Thank you , tub is working again.

[@TightWadDIY]

That’s great! I’m glad it worked for you too!

[@dadandgirls7306]

My daughter bought a home and the inspection report said the motor on her jetted tub isn’t grounded. There is a ground screw on the motor but it isn’t used. The jetted tub doesn’t have a controller box. What should the motor be grounded to?

[@JTMartin]

Worked like a charm. Thanks for saving me some money.

[@TightWadDIY]

JT Martin That’s great news! Be sure to subscribe!

[@marklilly7197]

Just a bandaid though. A slight tap on the motor achieves the same result. I got the same issue but want to buy a replacement but fix the replaced pump.

[@TightWadDIY]

Yep!

[@grantzobell2155]

Thank you so much. Fixed my tub!

[@TightWadDIY]

That’s great! I’m glad it worked for you too!

[@heinemanthos]

wow... love it. hardest part was getting the access panel open.... :-)

[@TightWadDIY]

Thomas Heineman Great! I'm glad it worked for you.

[@matthewmilnes658]

Thanks for this video. Worked a treat for me. Top man

[@TightWadDIY]

Matthew Milnes That’s great! Thank you for sharing your success. Be sure to subscribe!

[@michaelrichardson8436]

The motor was only humming because it didn't know the words 😁

[@TightWadDIY]

😂😂😂 good one

[@hunterhryciuk3964]

Most likely failing start run cap or overload switch failure

[@annraysunkcaj1903]

Thanks so much for helping many!

[@TightWadDIY]

Rayann Jackson You are very welcome. Be sure to subscribe and hit that thumbs up!

[@srg3443]

Worked perfectly!

[@TightWadDIY]

That’s great news!

[@weddny1717]

THANKS FOR THIS VIDEO..... I TRY THIS AND NOW ITS WORKING GREAT.

[@TightWadDIY]

Wedd NY Great! I’m glad it worked for you. Be sure to subscribe and hit that thumbs up.

[@msl1484]

Thanks for the video. What is the clear-looking thin pipe running from the right of the motor down towards the left at the bottom of the screen? I have a clear pipe that is hanging loose and I don't know where it should go.

[@janaleonelarose3031]

I was so excited to fix this myself. I got through the access panel and the motor but my motor has a solid face without slots or a screw that I can see. Does that mean when it was installed they put it in with that slotted cover & screw facing the other way or since my bathtub is over 20 years old they didn't make the motor as accessible?

[@TightWadDIY]

I bet it’s backwards.

[@juliadawn33]

It worked!!! Thank you so much for posting this!!!

[@TightWadDIY]

Julia Hayward You are very welcome. You may to do this several times if you don’t use it frequently.

[@davemarr7761]

That was my problem. Thanks for the video.

[@TightWadDIY]

Dave Marr Great! I’m glad you were able to fix it.

[@landers3700]

UPDATE on Senior Citizen FEMALE - HALLELUJAH! I fixed my Jacuzzi tub after watching a You tube video! I am in LOVE with TightWadDIY! Saved $500.00 +++

[@TightWadDIY]

Haha. Thanks for the sweet message. I’ll let my wife know to be on the lookout for you!

[@LSMEscape]

I cut an access into my pump, but the motor is in the other end from my access opening. I’m seeing the discharge piping end. I can remove the discharge pipe, is there a way to rotate the pump from this end? Or maybe spray something to dissolve the materials locking it in place?

[@TightWadDIY]

No sorry.

[@jenniferkirstine4913]

I believe I have the same problem, unfortunately when they put in the tub they encased it in tile with no access panel!! So I need to break tile to get to the motor. I have no idea where the motor is placed. I want to make sure I break the tile closest to the motor. Do you know if they typically install the motor at the head or foot of the tub?

[@TightWadDIY]

Sorry, it definitely varies by builder. It’s usually on the end closest to the controls though.

[@vondon0717]

I have a Lasco jetted bath tub, I can not find the panel to the tub, the previous owner must have hid it someplace where I’m not looking in, do you have an idea where it would be? My tub is humming too

[@ajiteshsingh2009]

Jesus christ I saved 500$ for sure, thanks alot

[@TightWadDIY]

Great! Just send me 10%! 😂😂😂

[@AmandaMcQuadeCrawfordMA]

Hi, and thanks! I am trying to fix the Jacuzzi. Humming engine: yes. Unplugged before going further: yes! Cleaned out water intake: wasn't that clogged, but why not? NOW: this model does not allow me to get to that post and free it up. I read Julie S and voodookid's comments; there is no space to crawl under if it was installed with the post facing the wall. I know this isn't anyone's priority during the crisis we are all enduring. I'm trying anyway because my husband was laid off, we'll probably have to move before a repairman can make a house call, and the landlady will expect the tub to work. Any ideas? Wishing you well

[@TightWadDIY]

Amanda McQuade Crawford I don’t think it should be your responsibility to make the tub work if you are renting. You didn’t install it and didn’t mess up due to negligence. The only option I can think of is to remove the motor.

[@AmandaMcQuadeCrawfordMA]

@@TightWadDIY Thank you. I tried reaching around to adjust that post with my shortest flathead, but I can't be sure of what I'm feeling. Doesn't seem like I'm connecting to the post though there is a central hole I can feel where the post ought to be. So, thank you for that reality check on what is possible and what isn't. Warm regards!

[@JeffsTravels]

I just fixed my outdoor spa using this method. It was hard because you couldn't see the end of motor but seeing your video gave me the motivation to try it by feel. I found the center of the motor and tried turning the screw but it was completely frozen from sitting outside for the winter unused. By attaching some vice grips to the screwdriver, I was able to get it to move a little but still the motor would only hum. I kept turning the screw driver for about 10 minutes and it finally was easy to turn. Hit the power and we're back in business! Thanks for posting this excellent video.

[@TightWadDIY]

Jeffrey Berezin That’s great! Thank you for sharing your success story!

[@mattmarbury5399]

Ah! I'm able to turn mine but it's still seems hung on something. I'll try doing it for 10+ minutes as well. Hopefully that works. I'll report back.

[@mattmarbury5399]

Another few minutes of turning and it finally got unlocked. My wife and I are so happy right now! I'm running it now with some Oh Yuk to clean it and there's a bunch of nastyness coming out. Thank you so much @TightWadDIY !!!

[@shellydicristo4099]

Thanks for the help!!! Saved us some $$

[@joehines1954]

My jacuzzi tub has a right hand drain so to get to the screw I will need get at it from underneath whitch is possible with a drop ceiling below

[@TightWadDIY]

Hopefully you can get to it.

[@curtd7303]

THANK YOU! It worked!!

[@TightWadDIY]

That’s great news!

[@timknight5105]

is there a way to clean out the pipes that run through the system. We bought a new house with this jacuzzi tub, but some black stuff comes out of the jets when we turn it on. Great video! Saved me some $$$!!

[@TightWadDIY]

Fill it up a few inches above the highest jet with hot water. Add either two cups of vinegar OR 1/2 cup of bleach along with a few table spoons of dish washing detergent. Runs the jets on high for 10-15 min. Drain then repeat the process with clean water to clear the lines.

[@birendebjana]

i have a beachcomber hottub. the pump although starts, i mean i can hear the sound but no water movement i.e. its not sending the water thru the filter and heater system. the hottub has two pumps and the small pump is at the back and i dont see a screw as u have mentioned here. can someone pls help

[@TightWadDIY]

Sorry I’m not really familiar with that.

[@voodookid8907]

It fixed the problem. The downside was that it was facing inside. Luckily I am very slime for 5'11', I was able to fit my body into that tiny space, lol..

[@TightWadDIY]

Voodookid I’m glad you were still able to get it working again.

[@Ukjsc]

Excellent thanks so much saved call out and saved the weekend 👍🏼👍🏼

[@TightWadDIY]

That’s great! I’m glad it worked for you too!

[@nikoniko9431]

I like how the fan start up sound

[@jeffreydaniel652]

How can you do this if the motor is facing the opposite way

[@TightWadDIY]

I’m not sure.

[@partyparamedics]

Why is it so hard to find parts for these? Mine does the same thing. But I took it out. Took off circulating wheel. And the motor works. Put the wheel back on. Same noise again. I think I need the plastic washers or something. But I can't find parts for it

[@TightWadDIY]

Most people just replace them.

[@tryst911]

Found panel and motor just like in your video. Super helpful! Mounted sideways but I found the screw and tried turning in both directions. It will turn but remains stiff and still won't turn jets on. Is there a next step? Thanks!

[@TightWadDIY]

T Drogula Does it hum when you turn it on?

[@tryst911]

TightWadRepairs It does hum....I just never can get it to spin freely with the screwdriver.

[@TweakieThuy]

Thank you so much!!!! It really was an easy fix!!!

[@TightWadDIY]

TweakieThuy It really is. Thank you for taking the time to comment. Be sure to subscribe.

[@djericanthony]

Got my pump running! Thank you

[@TightWadDIY]

Eric Anthony That’s great! I’m glad to hear it worked for you too!

[@djericanthony]

I had to fish my hand in a tight space and use a 90 degree extended flat head ratchet driver but I got it working. No way it would have been worth it removing the motor to get to it.

[@cashncoffee]

It worked!!!!! Thanks

[@TightWadDIY]

Great! I’m glad it’s running again!

[@cararich4]

Dude! Almost all the advice on the internets be "pump bad, buy another."

[@TightWadDIY]

Yes! Fix, don’t replace!

[@JacqueWoody]

I did this last year and have tried house the tub at least once a month to prevent a repeat. But happened again. Is there a way to keep the impeller from getting build up?

[@TightWadDIY]

Jacque Woody Not that I’m aware of.

[@robertcaputo7609]

Thank you it work perfectly

[@TightWadDIY]

Robert Caputo That’s great! Enjoy your jacuzzi!

[@SixThr33]

Thank you my guy!!!

[@TightWadDIY]

My pleasure!

[@scootorshoot6]

Thats great if you have an access panel... evidently mine has tile where you opened the door.

[@TightWadDIY]

Rowdy Gaming Clash of Clans That’s a pretty poor design. Did you check adjacent rooms to be sure there isn’t a panel somewhere else?

[@scootorshoot6]

@@TightWadDIY tiled up the side of bathtub front drain towards closet wall and headrest towards toilet room wall... sucks

[@jillbender4429]

This totally worked! Thanks!!

[@TightWadDIY]

Jill Bender Awesome! Im glad you were able to get it running again.

[@gxprice]

Thanks for this! The impeller is now spinning and the jets are working when the power switches on. However, only for a few minutes until the breaker trips, think heat related as it won't start and run again for an hour or two (throws the breaker immediately). Anyone any experience / advice on this?

[@TightWadDIY]

gxprice I suggest checking the wiring in the outlet.

[@josebanuelos7717]

Thank you so much I’m back in business 😀

[@TightWadDIY]

Jose Banuelos Alright! I’m glad it worked for you too.

[@gavinmanning6932]

Did what u directed on video and propeller moving freely but sounds like there is water swishing about in it.still just humming any ideas?

[@TightWadDIY]

Gavin Kirwan You think the motor sounds like it has water in it?

[@196duck]

Yes I have this problem, it sound like water in the motor, any ideas on a fix?

[@Japonesito83]

Fix It!!! Thanks... 👍👍👍

[@TightWadDIY]

Juan Manuel That’s great news! I’m glad you were able to get it going again!

[@jeffsanders1246]

Awesome! Works great now! Thanks!

[@TightWadDIY]

Jeff Sanders That’s great news! Thanks for taking the time to comment. Be sure to subscribe.

[@Bigcbiscuit]

thanks for the video , unfortunately the way my motors and pipes are mounted its not easily accessible. my motor is oriented reverse from yours.

[@TightWadDIY]

Chad Barker That stinks. The installers obviously didn't care to do the job correctly.

[@thebigcountry8518]

Chad Barker, I just opened my panel and yes motor is reversed on my tub. I cannot get to it for a simple fix. Unbelievable ! Just unbelievable !