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Lay-Z-Spa error codes and what they mean

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In short

On many Lay-Z-Spa pumps, E02 points to low water flow, usually a dirty filter or low water, and E03 and E04 relate to water that is too cold or too hot. Other codes generally point to sensor, heater or control faults. Meanings differ between pump models, so check your manual, try the simple flow checks and contact Bestway if a code returns.

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An error code on your Lay-Z-Spa pump looks alarming, but many codes have simple causes you can fix in minutes. Others point to a fault inside the pump that needs the maker's help. Bestway has made several generations of pumps, AirJet, AirJet Plus, HydroJet and the newer SmartSpa units, and code meanings are not identical across all of them. This guide gives the commonly listed meanings and first checks as a starting point, but your own manual is the final word for your pump.

Error codes in one table

This table shows the meanings commonly listed for Lay-Z-Spa pumps and a sensible first check. Confirm the meaning in the manual for your pump model, because it may differ.

CodeCommonly listed meaningFirst check
E01Water flow or flow sensor faultFilter, water level, hose connections, then manual
E02Low water flowClean or replace the filter, check water level and hoses
E03Water temperature too low, freeze riskHeater on, cover fitted, air temperature within limits
E04Water temperature too highSwitch off, let it cool, check set temperature and shade
E05 to E09Sensor, heater, pump or control faults; meanings vary by modelNote the code and model, reset as the manual allows, then contact Bestway
Lay-Z-Spa codes: commonly listed meaning and first check

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E02 and other flow codes

E02 is the code owners see most. The heater needs a steady flow of water, and the pump stops heating and shows a code when flow drops. The usual cause is a dirty or blocked filter. A low water level, an airlock after filling, a kinked hose or a loose connector can also cause it.

Switch off and unplug the pump, rinse or replace the filter, check the water is at the fill line, and make sure the hoses are straight and tightly connected. Restart. If the code comes back with a new filter and good water level, see the steps for persistent codes below.

  1. 1

    Switch off and unplug the pump.

  2. 2

    Remove and rinse the filter, or fit a new one.

  3. 3

    Top up water to the fill line.

  4. 4

    Check hoses and connectors for kinks, leaks and tightness.

  5. 5

    Reconnect, plug in, switch on and turn the filter on before the heater.

E03 and E04: temperature codes

A low temperature code usually appears when the water gets close to freezing. Check the heater is on and the cover is fitted, and that the air temperature is within the limits in your manual. In freezing weather, do not leave a filled tub switched off. See using a tub in winter.

A high temperature code means the water is hotter than the pump allows. This can happen in strong sun with the cover on, or if a sensor reads wrongly. Switch off, take the cover off to let it cool and check the set temperature. If it repeats in normal conditions, contact Bestway.

01020304004812162024hours on a 2.2 kW heater°C600 L: about 9 h1,000 L: about 15 h1,000 L, cover off (slower)
Minimum heating from 10 °C to 38 °C on 2.2 kW. With the cover off, heat is lost and the climb is slower.

Persistent or sensor codes

Codes in the E05 to E09 range on many pumps relate to sensors, the heater or the control board. Some pumps allow a reset by unplugging for a short time, as the manual describes. If the code returns, the fault is likely internal.

Write down the code, the pump model or part number from the label, when the code appears (at start-up, when heating, when the bubbles start) and what you have tried. Then contact Bestway or the seller. Pumps for many models are sold as replacements, and the pump may be covered by the warranty.

Note:Do not open the pump unit or try to repair internal parts. It contains mains electrics next to water. If the RCD trips or water gets into the pump, stop using it and contact the maker or a qualified electrician.

Other brands

Intex, MSpa, Wave and other makers use their own code systems, and the same code number can mean something different. Always use the manual for your tub. If your heater stops without a code, see heater not working.

Preventing codes

Most flow codes disappear with a clean filter and good water level.

  • Rinse the filter every few days and replace it when worn.
  • Keep the water at the fill line.
  • Keep pH in range and use anti-scale in hard water, as general guidance.
  • Keep the cover on in cold weather and shade the tub in strong sun.
  • Plug into an RCD protected outdoor socket without an extension lead.

Frequently asked questions

What does E02 mean on a Lay-Z-Spa? On many pumps it means low water flow, usually from a dirty filter or low water.

How do I reset a Lay-Z-Spa error code? Many pumps clear once the cause is fixed, and some reset after unplugging. Follow your manual.

Why does E02 keep coming back with a new filter? Check the water level, hoses and connectors. If it persists, the flow sensor or pump may be faulty; contact Bestway.

Do Lay-Z-Spa codes mean the same on all pumps? Not always. Check the manual for your pump model.

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