How to Find and Patch a Hole in an Inflatable Hot Tub – It’s Easy!

If you notice a hole in an inflatable hot tub, don’t worry – there’s a simple fix. In this post, I’ll show you how to find and patch a hole in an inflatable hot tub so that you can get back to enjoying your hot tub as soon as possible!

Firstly, you may be wondering ‘how did this happen!?’

Many things could have caused your inflatable hot tub to puncture. To ensure this doesn’t happen again make sure your inflatable hot tub is not…

• set up near trees and bushes with sharp branches
• sitting on rough surfaces such as pebbles and rocks
• in the same yard as your furry friends who may puncture the vinyl with their claws

Taking these precautions will go a long way in helping your inflatable hot tub last years rather than months.

If you’re wanting to increase the longevity of your current inflatable hot tub, consider the below strategies.

1. Keep it out of direct sunlight. Inflatable hot tubs are made of vinyl which is susceptible to deterioration when exposed to UV light.
2. Ground mat. Even the smoothest surfaces can have hidden hazards that are fatal to your inflatable hot tub. To be on the safe side always have a ground mat underneath your inflatable hot tub.
3. Keep it clean. It’s important to keep the inflatable hot tub clean and well maintained to prevent bacteria growth and mold which can harm the vinyl.

Find and Patch a Hole in an Inflatable Hot Tub

Before proceeding with the below steps, make sure it is a puncture and not something else. For example, a drop in temperature can result in air constricting and cause your inflatable hot tub to sag. To ensure this isn’t the reason for your hot tub’s deflation, leave it for 24hrs to see if it confirms up or continues to deflate.

Now, let’s get into how to find a hole in an inflatable hot tub

What you will need;

• Wax marker (for wet marking)
• Spray bottle
• Soapy detergent
• Goggles
• A dry cloth

Step 1. Check for an underwater leak

The easiest hole to find is one that is underwater, that’s because it will leave a stream of bubbles leading to its location. When looking for a hole underwater make sure you turn off the bubble jets and remove any accessories from the hot tub such as lights and seats to have a clear view.

Now, look closely to see if any bubbles are breaking on the surface. It’s also a good idea to put on some goggles and place your head underwater to find a bubbling stream. If you find the spot the bubbling is coming from, put your finger on it, and if the bubbles stop you know you have found the hole. Encircle the area with a marker (such as a wax maker) that works underwater and continue to the next step.

Step 2. Check for an external leak

Make sure the inflatable hot tub is nice and firm with good air pressure before completing this step. Finding holes on the external walls is a lot harder because you need to add liquid to the area to search for bubbles. To do this, you need a spray bottle filled with water. Add a few squirts of soapy detergent (either hand soap or dishwashing liquid). Spray the outside of the inflatable hot tub and at the same time look for areas the soapy liquid is popping bubbles.

If you find a spot that looks like it might be bubbling, wipe it clean and spray again just to be sure. If you put your finger on it and it stops bubbling you’ve found a hole. Mark it with a wax pen and keep searching.

Continue to process until all leaks are found.

Important!

Check all attachments to the inflatable hot tub, especially the valve. These are the most common areas where leaks spring from.

Step 3. Patch the Leak

Many inflatable hot tubs come with a patch and repair kit. You might need to check the box your hot tub came in. If you can’t find one, don’t worry, there are plenty available online for purchase. Our favorite brands are below

1. TEAR-AID Vinyl Inflatable Repair Kit
2. TPU Pool Patch Repair Kit
3. Outus Self-Adhesive Vinyl Repair Patch
4. Syhood Self Adhesive PVC Vinyl Repair Patch

Make sure you read the instructions thoroughly.

The process of patching a hole in an inflatable hot tub is very easy and takes a few minutes only to complete.

1.         Dry and wipe clean the area around the hole for possible dust and other particles (if external leak)

2.         Prepare a patch for application. Make sure that it covers at least 1 inch in every direction of the hole

3.         Remove the backing of the patch as you apply it to the hole area

4.         Firmly press the patch in a forward and backward direction with your fingers so that there are no air bubbles trapped under the vinyl patch

5.         Lastly, vigorously press the patch onto the hole area with your thumb and palm for a few minutes to make sure that the patch is now strongly attached.

6.         Follow the instructions but I recommend leaving the patch for at least 24hrs to take hold before using your inflatable hot tub. If you put pressure on it too early, it is likely to give way and your efforts are wasted

Conclusion

That’s it! Finding and patching a hole in your inflatable hot tub is easy. Now that you know how to do it, be sure to check out our article Inflatable Hot Tub Set Up and Maintenance for more tips on keeping your spa in good condition. Have fun relaxing in your new backyard oasis!