Sundance Spas Heater Element Failure

Spa will not heat; water stays at or near ambient temperature even though pumps run and no error code is displayed.

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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

Open or burned-out heater element in Sundance heater tube, Tripped high-limit or thermal fuse on heater, Loose heater connections on control board, Failed heater relay on control board

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Turn off power at the GFCI breaker. Verify with a non-contact voltage tester before touching any wiring. Water and electricity are a lethal combination.

  • 1. Confirm demand for heat: Set the spa temperature several degrees above current water temperature and ensure the spa is not in Economy or Sleep mode.
  • 2. Check for subtle codes: Some models briefly flash heater icons or small text; verify that no flow or sensor codes are present.
  • 3. Feel heater tube: After 15–20 minutes of run time (with power ON), carefully feel the outside of the stainless heater tube. It should be warm if the heater is working. If it is cold, the heater is likely not energizing.
  • 4. Inspect heater wiring: With power OFF, open the control box and check that the heater wires are firmly attached to the heater terminals and the control board relay.
  • 5. Resistance test (for qualified persons): Disconnect heater leads and measure resistance across the heater element with a multimeter. A typical reading is 8–20 ohms depending on wattage. Infinite resistance indicates an open element.
  • When to call a technician: Heater replacement involves electrical and plumbing work and should generally be performed by a spa technician, especially if the control board relay is also suspect.
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Repair Difficulty

Hard 4/5

Required Part

Heater Assembly
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