I just got an older Hot Springs Sovereign (1994ish maybe?) that is in wonderful condition. The problem is it won't maintain heat. I brought new filters first, and for a while if I would turn it off for a while and turn it back on it would heat up. Now I am getting worried because it's getting real cold here in the northeast and I want to find a fix before it freezes the pipes, pump or something. I have no idea where to look for the thermostat. Any ideas? Thanks

What's the serial number?
Different parts for 93,94, and 95.

Are you sure the T-stat is the culprit?

Hi-

Thanks so much for replying. I am not at all sure it's the thermostat. I don't know what the issue could be. I was hoping to pick someone's brain on this site to get some ideas. I am at the point now that I wish I knew how to safely get all of the water out of the system so I can let it sit for the winter and have more time to figure it out in the spring. I guess my biggest fear is having it freeze and ruin something. It is such an amazing hot tub for it's age. Until I got it it has always been inside. Serial # I242177

Thanks again
Debra

It's a 1994.

T-stat is a good place to start, if you're not hearing a "click" when you turn it up and down.

But really, this is a job you might want to hire a good, experienced Hot Spring tech. The T-stat on the 1994 model yea in particular wasn't engineered properly, and replacing it will only lead to another failure. A, electronic T-stat and thermistor retro-fit kit has been designed for it, but install is a little tricky for the uninitiated. Also- might just be a bad heater relay or circ pump. If you're not sure where the T-stat is, it's probably best to have a professional check it out.

Is it just not heating, or does the entire spa become in/op?

The hot tub works great except for not maintaining heat. I can feel the circulating pump putting out water so I don't think that is it. I don't hear any clicking at all when moving the dial either. I guess I will get a service call...just this close to Christmas it's hard to come up with the duckets to pay the man if you know what I mean. Do you have a general idea of what this retrofit thing that you speak of costs? Thanks again for taking the time to respond.

Debra

The T-stat's suggested retail is $70.46. I have no idea what a service call runs where you live, here it's around $100.

It comes with directions, but you really don't want to guess, and start replacing parts willy-nilly until it starts working, especially if money is an issue

If you're familiar with a digital meter, and are able to drop the control box and do some troubleshooting, I'll keep you pointed in the right direction

I am going to call a service place tomorrow. But here is one more question. In case its too much money for me to invest right at this moment. Is it possible for me to empty it and safely get ALL of the water out of the system so nothing freezes and bursts over the winter. I would rather lose the use of it this winter, than lose the whole tub from a freezing issue. Make sense?

once again, thanks for your expertise. Debra

Yes, it is absolutely possible to winterize your spa 'til the spring. I'd repair/ replace the thermistat. Whatever you choose, there's plenty of help here.

I have a service call for tomorrow. I will let you know what the problem is. Better be getting a gold plated thermostat for what a service call is costing tho. Thanks for all the input and encouragement tho.