How to fix error codes on a Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Control Panel

Got an error code or message on your Jacuzzi® J-200™ spa’s control panel? This guide explains the error codes and how to fix them.

Error codes in Jacuzzi® Control Panels are used to alert users to any issues that their spa is experiencing. The error codes provide a quick reference to users so they can troubleshoot the issue and get back to enjoying their Jacuzzi® spa. Error codes can help users identify potential problems and determine which components need attention.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

What is the Jacuzzi® Control Panel and how does it work?

The Jacuzzi® control panel commonly referred to as the "Jacuzzi® keypad", is connected to the spa's controller by a cable that passes through the cabinet beneath the spa itself.

The Jacuzzi® controller (or “spa pack”) is the central brain that connects to and runs all of the plumbing equipment in your spa or swim spa. This keypad includes different buttons that allow users to control the temperature, jets, lighting, circulation pumps, filtration systems and other spa features.

The Jacuzzi® keypad can also alert you to different error messages or alerts that may require you to take action to resolve, making your spa experience even more manageable and enjoyable.

"Your spa has a self-diagnostic control system. The system will automatically display an error message if a problem is detected."

What are Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Spa error messages?

In this section, we’ll delve into the potential error codes and messages your spa may encounter and help you understand what these error messages mean.

Please note: You can find FAQs at the end of this article if you have questions or are unsure about any terms used in this guide.

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What does “COOL” error message in Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Control Panel mean?

This error message means that the water temperature has dropped 20°F (11°C) below the current set temperature.

This alert aims to let the user know that Jets Pump 1 and the heater have been activated to bring the temperature within 15°F (8°C) of the set temperature and don’t require corrective action.

Please note: This message alert is common during first-time fill-ups or during refills since tap water is often very cold.

What does “ICE” error message in Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Control Panel mean?

If your control panel displays ICE, it means that a potential freeze condition has been detected. This alert message is displayed to let the user know that the water temperature is below 55°F (12.78°C) and doesn’t require corrective action.

Your spa automatically activates Jets Pump 1 and Jets Pump 2 for 10 minutes, then turn off. The Jets Pump 1 and the heater will then activate for 10 minutes. The two cycles shall repeat until the water temperature reaches 65°F (18.33°C).

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What does “SN--1” error code on a Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Control Panel mean?

The SN--1 error code means that the high-limit temperature sensor is not functioning. Open sensor (heater is disabled) or shorted sensor (spa is deactivated). The display will alternate between “SN--1”, scrolling message “HI-LIMIT SENSOR ERROR” and the current water temperature.

To resolve this error, please contact Spa World™ Service.

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What does “SN--2” error message on a Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Control Panel mean?

The SN--2 error code means that the temperature sensor is not functioning. Open or shorted sensor (heater disabled). The display will alternate between “SN--2”, scrolling message “WATER SENSOR ERROR” and the current water temperature.

To resolve this error, please contact Spa World™ Service.

What does “Change CLEARRAY Bulb” error message on a Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Control Panel mean?

The Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Spa is equipped with CLEARRAY® Water Purification System that uses natural ultraviolet technology to sanitize your water, disinfecting bacteria, viruses, and algae. This water purification system has a UV bulb that must be replaced once a year.

The Change CLEARRAY Bulb error message will appear on the control panel’s display when the CLEARRAY® bulb timer has expired. In order to clear the message, a new UV bulb needs to be installed and the timer must be reset. To replace the UV bulb, please refer to the owner’s manual.

Click the button below to learn a step-by-step guide on how to program the CLEARRAY® Timer on a Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Spa.

What does “Change Filter” error message on a Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Control Panel mean?

The Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Spa is equipped with a single pleated filter cartridge. We recommend that this filter needs cleaning once a month and be replaced every 12 - 18 months.

When the filter change timer has expired, the display will alternate between the current temperature reading and the scrolling message “CHANGE FILTER” as long as the error exists.

Click the button below to learn a step-by-step guide on how to clean Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection filter.

Once the filter has been changed, the countdown timer for the Change Filter feature needs to be reset.

Click the button below to learn a step-by-step guide on how to program the Change Filter Timer on a Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Spa.

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What does “Change Water” error message on a Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Control Panel mean?

As a guide, spa water should be changed every three to six months or as required. How often you change your spa water, depends on a range of factors including the type of spa you have, the number of spa users, how often you use it, and how vigilant you are with hygiene.

A programmable water refresh timer can be set to remind you when it’s time to drain and refill your hot tub. When the timer expires, the display will alternate between the current temperature reading and the scrolling message “CHANGE WATER” as long as the error exists.

Click the button below to learn a step-by-step guide on how to drain and refill Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Spa.

What does “FL--1” error code on a Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Control Panel mean?

An “FL--1” error code means the flow switch is malfunctioning open, the filter cartridge is excessively dirty or an “air lock” has occurred at the Jets Pump 1 intake. The display will alternate between “FL--1,” scrolling message “FLOW ERROR OPEN” and the current water temperature.

If your spa encounters this error, the spa heater will deactivate and Jets Pump 1 may also deactivate.

To resolve this error, please contact Spa World™ Service.

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What does “FL--2” error code on a Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Control Panel mean?

An “FL--2” error code means the flow switch is malfunctioning and it’s stuck in the closed position.

The display will alternate between “FL--2,” scrolling message “FLOW ERROR CLOSED” and the current water temperature.

If your spa encounters this error, the spa heater will deactivate and Jets Pump 1 may also deactivate.

To resolve this error, please contact Spa World™ Service.

Please note: Before contacting Spa World™ Service, please make sure to clean the filter and that the water level of your spa is correct.

Pro Tip: You’ll know when the water level is acceptable when the water covers all jets but does not touch the bottom of the lowest headrest.

What does “FL--3” error code on a Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Control Panel mean?

An “FL--3” error code means the flow switch is behaving erratically. The display will alternate between “FL--3,” scrolling message “FLOW ERROR TOGGLE” and the current water temperature.

If your spa encounters this error, the spa heater will deactivate and Jets Pump 1 may also deactivate.

To resolve this error, please contact Spa World™ Service.

What does “T--OH” error code on a Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Control Panel mean?

When the spa water is above acceptable temperature limits, the display will alternate between “T--OH” and the current water temperature.

If your spa encounters this error, the Jets Pump 1 activates to circulate water through the heater.

WARNING! Do not enter the spa as the water temperature has reached 112°F (44°C). There’s a risk of hyperthermia (overheating) causing severe injury, burns, or welts.

Please note: As a safety measure, the red lights of the spa will flash on and off as an indication that the spa is in an overheated condition.

To resolve this error, you may perform the troubleshooting steps below.

  • Remove the spa’s cover and allow your spa to cool down.
  • Program the heater settings to Economy Mode.
  • If the condition persists, please contact Spa World™ Service.

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What does “H--OH” error code on a Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Control Panel mean?

When the spa water is above acceptable temperature limits, the display will alternate between “H--OH” and the current water temperature.

If your spa encounters this error, the Jets Pump 1 activates to circulate water through the heater.

WARNING! Do not enter the spa as the water temperature has reached 112°F (44°C). There’s a risk of hyperthermia (overheating) causing severe injury, burns, or welts.

Please note: As a safety measure, the red lights of the spa will flash on and off as an indication that the spa is in an overheated condition.

To resolve this error, please contact Spa World™ Service.

What does “-- -- -- --” error code on a Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Control Panel means?

This error message displays on the control panel when the safety “Watchdog” software has been triggered and the spa is deactivated. A problem has been detected which could cause damage to the spa or its components. The display will alternate between “-- -- -- --” and the scrolling message “WATCHDOG CALL FOR SERVICE” as long as the error exists.

WARNING! The water temperature is above acceptable limits. Do not enter the spa! There’s a risk of hyperthermia (overheating) causing severe injury, burns, or welts.

Please note: As a safety measure, the red lights of the spa will flash on and off as an indication that the spa is in an overheated condition.

To resolve this error, please contact Spa World™ Warranty.

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Advanced Controller

Troubleshooting Procedures for Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Spa

If your Jacuzzi® spa isn’t operating the way it should, the first step is to check the control panel for error codes or messages. Once you have the code or message, the next step is to refer to the owner’s manual and review the installation and operating instructions.

If you are still not satisfied it is working properly, please follow the appropriate troubleshooting instructions.

Important: If you find any damaged supply cords, please contact Spa World™ Service.

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How to troubleshoot Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Spa when no components are working

If none of your spa components works, (for example, the pump, jets, and lights), you may check the following.

  • Solution 1: Check if the power switch is turned ON.
  • Solution 2: If the breaker switches itself off, the household circuit breaker might have tripped.
  • Solution 3: If you found the circuit breaker is indeed tripped, please contact Spa World™ Service.

How to troubleshoot Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Spa if the pump doesn’t operate, but the light does

There are several possible reasons the pump isn’t operating properly and most of them are easy to fix.

No water movement after pressing Jets 1 button.

When you press the Jets 1 button, the jets should start operating to circulate water through the jets which gives a massage-like effect to the users. If no water movement is detected, please do the following.

Solution 1: Make sure power is going to the spa

Check the circuit breaker and make sure that it is ON. Resetting the breaker might fix the problem.

Solution 2: Check the water level

If the water level is low, your pump may have trouble pumping water. You’ll know when the water level is acceptable when the water covers all jets but does not touch the bottom of the lowest headrest.

Solution 3: If none of these fixes the problem, please contact Spa World™ Service to resolve the problem.

The main jets pump 1 operates but no water flows to the jets.

If after pressing Jets 1 button, the Jets pump 1 operates but there’s no water coming from the jets, please do the following.

Solution 1: Make sure the jets are in the OPEN position

The water flow through certain jets in your spa can be adjusted or turned ON (open) and OFF (closed) by rotating the outside jet ring. Other jets also offer an adjustable centre nozzle that allows you to change the water discharge angle.

Solution 3: The pump may not be properly primed

If the jets are in the open position, it could be a failed water prime issue. This can happen after the spa is drained and refilled. To resolve this issue, please follow the steps below.

  • Step 1: Press the JETS 1 button repeatedly

Using the control panel press the JETS 1 button several times, never leaving the motor running for more than 5 to 10 seconds at a time.

  • Step 2: Turn power the OFF and remove the filter cartridge

Turn power off and let the air out of spa plumbing system by removing the filter cartridge. Remove the filter strainer lid assembly by rotating it counterclockwise. Remove the filter cartridge by rotating it counterclockwise to unthread it from the filter wall fitting. Then lift it straight up to remove it from the filter well.

  • Step 3: Reinstall the filter cartridge then turn power the ON

Make certain you reinstall the filter cartridge before turning on the spa power.

  • Step 4: Restart the Jets pump 1

Once the power is back ON, press Jets Pump 1. If the jets pumps operate and water is flowing through the jets, the problem is fixed.

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How to troubleshoot low flow or weak jets on a Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Spa

If the jets aren’t giving the pressure they typically would, you may follow the troubleshooting steps below.

Solution 1: Make sure jets are in the full open “on” position

The water flow through certain jets in your spa can be adjusted or turned ON (open) and OFF (closed) by rotating the outside jet ring. Other jets also offer an adjustable centre nozzle that allows you to change the water discharge angle.

Solution 2: Make sure Pump #1 is running

Press the Jets 1 button to make certain pump #1 is on.

Solution 3: Open all air controls

Your spa’s jet system has its own air control or air valve. These control/s are located on the top of the spa. To open the air control/s open, simply turn them counterclockwise.

Solution 4: Check for dirty filter

A dirty filter doesn’t only affect the quality of the spa water but can also weaken the water flow. If your filter needs cleaning, you may refer to the step-by-step cleaning guide below.

How to troubleshoot a Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Spa if the water is too hot

Your spa gives an alert if it detects that the spa water is too hot. If it is, please don’t enter the spa. You may be at risk of scalding and other overheating injuries. To reduce the temperature of the spa, please do the following.

Solution 1: Reduce the thermostat setting

To reduce the temperature of your spa, you can program the heater settings to Economy Mode.

Solution 2: Remove the spa cover

By removing the cover of the spa, you're allowing the heat to escape which cools down the water.

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How to troubleshoot a Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Spa if the water doesn’t heat up

If your spa doesn’t heat up, you may perform the following troubleshooting steps.

Solution 1: Check the thermostat setting

The default display of the control panel shows the current spa temperature. If the water temperature is lower than the temperature you desire, you may adjust its temperature.

Click the button below to learn a step-by-step guide on how to change the Water Temperature Setting on a Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Spa.

Solution 2: Keep the spa cover on

One key benefit of quality spa covers is it helps with heat retention. The heating process will be faster with the spa cover in place.

Solution 3: Check the heating mode

Your spa features different heating modes. If your spa is programmed to “Economy Mode”, it will only be allowed to heat the water between 5:00 PM to 7:00 AM every day of the week. The hours cannot be adjusted.

To change the heating mode settings, please refer to the guide below.

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Jacuzzi® J-200™ Collection Control Panel Error Messages FAQs

What is water prime?

Water priming is the cycle of the water flowing through the circulation pump into the plumbing and back into the spa. This process activates the circulation pump before the automatic heat cycle begins to ensure there is enough water in the heater tube so that the heater element will not be damaged by overheating.

What’s an airlock?

An airlock is a bubble of air trapped in the pump or plumbing. This air bubble prevents the circulation pump from pumping water and causes the spa controller to trip off.

What’s a flow switch in hot tubs?

Hot tubs are most often equipped with flow switches, which are helpful safety devices to monitor the flow of water as it circulates throughout the tub. The heater will turn off if the flow of water is interrupted, keeping it in optimal condition and not causing any damage to the surrounding equipment.

What is a water temperature sensor in hot tubs?

Generally, hot tubs are equipped with two types of sensors, ー water temperature sensor and a Hi-limit temperature sensor. Both are used as safety features to prevent your spa from overheating. A water temperature sensor, as the name implies, is a device that is used to measure the water temperature of the hot tub which displays on the control panel.

The water temperature sensor is typically installed in the filter housing and is connected to the circuit board. In case this device malfunctions, an error message is displayed on the control panel.

What is a Hi-limit temperature sensor in hot tubs?

Hi-limit sensors monitor the temperature inside heaters and alert the control system if the temperature exceeds safe levels. If overheating occurs, the Hi-limit temperature sensor sends a signal to your spa’s circuit board and automatically deactivates the heater.

Like the water temperature sensor, in the event that this device malfunctions, an error message is displayed on the control panel.

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In Summary

The error codes, alerts and messages displayed on your control spas’ control panel are important for identifying any issues or problems with your spa. It’s important to pay attention to these messages and take the recommended steps to remedy them.

Please keep the following in mind:

  • Do not attempt to repair or replace parts if you have no experience performing such tasks. Doing so might lead to more serious problems and might void your warranty.
  • If none of the steps above fixes the problem, please contact Spa World™ Service to resolve the problem.
  • If a replacement component is needed, please always insist on genuine Jacuzzi® replacement parts.

If you need expert assistance, we’re here to help!

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