Spa heats very slowly or cannot reach set temperature, especially in cold weather

Safety first: Turn off power before opening the equipment bay. Avoid contact with live terminals.

Improve heating performance:

• Check mode and set point: Ensure the spa is in STANDARD/READY mode and set temperature is at desired level.
• Inspect cover: Examine the Dream Maker spa cover for waterlogging, tears, or poor seal. A heavy, waterlogged cover should be replaced to reduce heat loss.
• Verify circulation: Confirm that the circulation pump (or low-speed of the jet pump) runs during heating cycles and that there is strong flow from the heater return.
• Check for air infiltration: Inspect cabinet panels and equipment bay for missing insulation or large gaps. Add insulation where appropriate, keeping clearances around equipment.
• Heater scaling: In hard water areas, scale can build up on the heater element. If other causes are ruled out and the heater is old, consider replacing the heater assembly.