FLO
Beachcomber Low Flow / No Flow Through Heater

Control panel displays FLO or FL, jets may not run, heater will not turn on, and water may feel cool.

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Dirty or clogged Beachcomber Microfilter cartridge, Air lock in plumbing after refill, Partially closed slice/knife valves at equipment bay, Weak or failing Beachcomber circulation pump

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Turn off power at the GFCI breaker before opening the equipment bay or removing filters. Never run the spa without adequate water flow through the heater.

  • Check water level: Ensure the water level is above all suction fittings and at least halfway up the skimmer opening.
  • Clean or test filter: Remove the Beachcomber Microfilter cartridge from the skimmer or filter well. Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose from top to bottom. Temporarily run the spa without the filter (for a few minutes only) after restoring power. If FLO clears, replace the filter with a new Beachcomber-compatible cartridge.
  • Bleed air from system: After a refill, air can be trapped in the circulation lines. With power OFF, loosen the union on the circulation pump or heater inlet slightly until you hear air hiss and see a small amount of water, then retighten. Restore power and check if FLO clears.
  • Verify valves are open: In the equipment bay, confirm all slice/knife valves on suction and return lines are fully pulled up and locked. Partially closed valves will cause low flow.
  • Check circulation pump operation: With the cover open and power ON, listen for the small circulation pump (often runs continuously on Beachcomber models). If it is silent, humming, or very hot to the touch, it may be failing and should be replaced.

If the FLO code persists after filter cleaning, air bleeding, and valve checks, the circulation pump or flow switch may need professional diagnosis and replacement.

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Repair Difficulty

Medium 3/5

Required Part

Beachcomber Microfilter cartridge
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