Black bits in hot tub water?
Updated October 2026
Black flakes in the water look worrying, but they don’t mean the water is contaminated. Something is breaking down. It’s usually a headrest or a pump impeller, and neither always means an expensive repair.
LXCheck the pump label
Perished headrests
Heat, chemicals and age break down the material on the underside of headrests. Small black pieces then flake off into the water.
Take the headrests out and look at the back. If they feel soft, sticky or crumbly and the bits match, replace them. New headrests are a simple swap.
A worn pump impeller
The impeller spins inside the wet end of the pump and moves the water. When it starts to break up, small black fragments travel through the pipework and come out of the jets.
We’re finding this regularly on LX LP200, WP200, WP250 and WP300 pumps. LX pumps are fitted to many tubs, either from new or as a replacement.
A water change and a new filter will clear the bits for a while, but they’ll come back until the pump is sorted. Not every LX pump has this problem, so the pump needs checking before deciding what to replace.
The make on the cabinet doesn’t tell you which pump is fitted. Look for the label on the pump itself, inside the cabinet.
Does the whole pump need replacing?
Not always. Where the parts are available, we can often replace the damaged parts of the wet end instead of fitting a new pump. That saves a fair amount, especially on a tub with more than one pump.
If the pump is also leaking or noisy, the seals need attention too. A leak left running can reach the motor and turn a repairable pump into a replacement.
While the cabinet’s open, we also check the rest of the equipment for leaks and wear.
Holiday lets, and white bits
In holiday-let and commercial tubs, small toys and other objects can end up in the pump and damage the impeller. If that keeps happening, we can show whoever looks after the tub what to check.
White bits or flakes have different causes and need looking at separately. Send us a photo.
Pumps put right
From 47 reviews on Google
“A great experience with Jon, came to fix a broken pump and was efficient and helpful. Communication excellent”
“My enquiry was handled very quickly and an appointment made for the following day. As there were guests in the house and not happy so this was a relief. The fault was soon identified and repaired with recommendations to improve performance. We would highly recommend Jon and use him in future.”
“I was so impressed by your service. You turned up when you said you could you were so friendly and your knowledge on hot tubs blew my mind you’re amazing. I thought my tub was knackered and would be so costly to fix but you made it work in just 40 minutes. I’ll definitely recommend you to everyone. Thanks so much.”
Black bits coming out of the jets?
Ring or WhatsApp us with a photo of the bits and the pump label.
If your tub is sunk into decking or the ground, or set against a wall, it helps to mention it when you book. If you’re not sure, a photo is fine.
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