I inherited a hot tub with a build date of 1992. I had to replace the heater element and when I re-connected the quick-disconnects and filled the tub, I noticed that I had two new leaks. I only allowed the flex-pipe to move about 5mm, so I was surprised to find the leaks. I suspect it’s because the tub is so old and the glue has become brittle.

Needless to say, I’m a little worried about attempting to repair these leaks. I don’t want the domino effect to occur… where I fix one leak and cause another. Any suggestions to help prevent this?

OK, on to the real questions. What’s the best way to fix these leaks?

Leak #1: The leak is occurring at a solid PVC elbow and 1” flex-pipe connection. Is it possible to take pliers to the flex pipe and bent it enough to crack the glue or loosen the flex pipe? Or… am I better off cutting the flex pipe and adding an extender?

Leak#2: Actually leak #2 has two separate leaks and they are at the filter housing. This looks to be a daunting repair. One leak is at the filter outlet were a rigid piece of PVC is connected. The other leak appears to be coming from the front top side of the filter. I’m having trouble pinpointing it due to visibility. The filter housing is a Rainbow RCF. I think I read somewhere that if I have to replace it I should use a WaterWorks instead. Thoughts? I don’t want to do any more work then I absolutely have to.

Thanks for the advice in advance!

Here is the picture for Leak #1:

You can try to remove the pipe from the fitting, and even find a drill bit to remove the pipe, but I wouldn't go that route.

1st, there's a 2 part epoxy by the name of DEVCON, specifically made for this type of repair (Plastic Welder DA291) Smear it around, it hardens just like pvc, will permantly repair those glue-joint fittings in just a few minutes.


On the filter niche leak, use a large pair or Channell locks, or pipe wrench to unscrew the large lock-ring, pry the filter body up 1/2" or so (don't have to cut any pipe), remove the old gasket, and just use some silicone sealant, drop it back in place, and re-titghten the large lock-ring. Might have to loosen a unioun to get yourself enough play.

Outstanding, I'll give it a shot.

They make Channel Locks that big? OK, I'll give this a try as well.

Thanks for the tips.

Say SWINE, I was very interested in your suggestion to use DEVCON for fixing leaks. I recently discovered a leak in the plastic Brett-Aqualine HEATER HOUSING in my older tub. The leak is coming from a crack in the corner of the housing where 4 bolts attach the heater plate squeezing a 5" O-ring to the housing.

I was wondering if you think that maybe smearing DEVCON in and around this crack might solve my leak problem? What do you think?

If not, is replacement the only solution? Any suggestions?