Fix
Lay-Z-Spa pump or bubbles not working
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In short
If the pump will not start, check the socket, the plug's protective device and the RCD first. If the pump runs but the bubbles do not, check whether the panel is locked, the bubble timer has ended or the heater is pausing them, and that the connectors are tight. If the pump hums but nothing moves, or a code persists, contact Bestway.
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A Lay-Z-Spa that will not start, or starts but gives no bubbles, can usually be traced to one of a handful of causes. Many are settings or connections rather than a broken pump. This guide works through the checks in order, from power to panel to plumbing, and explains how to tell a settings issue from a pump fault. Lay-Z-Spa has made several pump generations, and button names and behaviour vary, so use your manual alongside these steps.
Check 1: power
If the RCD or the plug's device trips again straight away, there may be a fault. See hot tub tripping electrics and do not keep resetting it.
- 1
Check the outdoor socket is switched on and the RCD at the consumer unit has not tripped.
- 2
Look at the plug's built-in protective device. Press test, then reset, as the manual describes; the indicator should show it is live.
- 3
Check the plug and cable for damage or water. If you see any, stop and do not use it.
- 4
Remove any extension lead or adaptor and plug straight into the outdoor socket.
- 5
Check the pump display lights up when switched on.
Note:Handle plugs only with dry hands. Never open the pump housing. If anything is damp, scorched or keeps tripping, stop and contact the maker or a qualified electrician.
Check 2: panel lock and settings
Many Lay-Z-Spa pumps have a panel lock that stops buttons from working until you unlock it, often by holding a button for a few seconds. If nothing responds, check the lock first. The manual shows the lock symbol and how to release it.
The bubbles on many pumps run for a set time and then stop automatically. If they stop after a while, that may be normal. On many 13 A pumps, the heater pauses while the bubbles run, or the bubbles cannot be started in some modes, to keep within the power limit. Check what your model does.
Check 3: connectors and airlocks
The pump connects to the tub through hoses or direct connectors for water and, on AirJet models, a separate air connection. If the air connector is loose or not fitted, the blower runs but no bubbles appear in the tub. Check every connector is fully seated and tight.
After filling, air can be trapped in the water hoses and pump, causing an airlock. The pump may hum or show a flow error. Loosen a connector slightly as the manual describes to let air out, then retighten, or switch the filter on and off a few times. See Lay-Z-Spa error codes for flow codes.
AirJet
Air from the blower, up through holes in the floor ring.
HydroJet
Water from the pump, out through nozzles in the wall.
Check 4: filter and water level
A blocked filter or low water stops flow, which can stop the heater and show a code. Rinse or replace the filter and top the water up to the fill line. See how to clean hot tub filters.
Settings issue or pump fault?
If you have worked through the checks and the pump still will not run, or makes unusual noises, it is likely a pump fault. Note the model, part number and code, and contact Bestway or the seller. Replacement pumps are sold for many models.
| What you see | Likely cause | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| Display dark | Power, RCD or plug device | Check power; stop if it trips again |
| Buttons do nothing | Panel lock | Unlock as the manual shows |
| Bubbles stop after a while | Bubble timer | Normal on many pumps |
| Blower runs, no bubbles | Air connector loose | Refit connector |
| Pump hums, no flow | Airlock or blockage | Release air, check filter and hoses |
| Code returns after checks | Internal fault | Contact Bestway |
| Loud grinding or burning smell | Internal fault | Switch off, unplug, contact Bestway |
Keeping the pump healthy
The pump is usually the first part to wear out on an inflatable tub. See how long inflatable hot tubs last.
- Keep it on a firm, dry, level surface, raised off wet ground.
- Rinse the filter every few days.
- Use anti-scale in hard water areas, as general guidance, and descale as the manual describes.
- Protect it from frost: never leave a filled tub switched off in freezing weather.
- Store it dry and indoors over winter.
Frequently asked questions
Why are my Lay-Z-Spa bubbles not working with no error code? Check the panel lock, the bubble timer and the air connector. On some pumps the heater mode limits bubbles.
Why will my Lay-Z-Spa pump not start? Check the socket, RCD and the plug's protective device first.
How do I get rid of an airlock? Loosen a connector slightly to let air escape, as the manual describes, then retighten.
Can I replace a Lay-Z-Spa pump myself? Many pumps are sold as complete replacement units that connect like the original. Do not open or repair the pump's internals.
What you need
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Lay-Z-Spa 60001: 4 seats and 669 L
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