A whirlpool spa tub requires an access panel for the circulation pump and it must meet the following standards: minimum 12” by 12”, or 18” x 18” if pump is more than 2 feet from opening. Also, a door or removeable panel must cover the opening, which should be unobstructed and large enough to allow removal and replacement of the pump, and any manufacturer’s instructions regarding size and placement of opening must be followed. All of this is per the International Residential Code (IRC P2720.1) and the Residential edition of the Florida Building Code.

    If you are having trouble finding the access panel, look at the photo at the top of this page for clues. The access could be inside the sink cabinet that abuts the tub, on the other side of the interior wall behind it, or below the window in the exterior wall of the home. Still no luck? It is also possible that there is no access panel and one must be installed to service or replace the pump. We come across that problem pretty often. 

    Also, see our blog posts My spa tub stopped working. What's wrong? and Why can't I put a chandelier over the spa tub in my master bath? It would look wonderful! 

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Here’s links to a collection of our other blog posts about PLUMBING:

• How can I protect my pipes to keep them from bursting during a hard winter freeze in North Florida?

• Why is there mold inside my toilet tank?  

• What are the pros and cons of a wall-mounted toilet?

• Are plastic pipes (PVC, CPVC, and PEX) safe for drinking water? 

• Why is a backflow preventer required on lawn sprinkler systems? 

• How can I locate my septic tank? 

• Is a hot water faucet handle required to be on the left? 

• Can you live in a house while the plumbing is being replaced? 

• Why is the European-style bottle trap not approved by the plumbing codes in the U.S.? 

• Why can't PVC be used for water pipe inside a house? 

• What are the common problems to look for when the plumbing has been replaced in a house? 

• What's that powdery crust on the pipe connections at the water heater? 

• How can I tell what type of plumbing pipe I have? 

      Visit our PLUMBING page for other related blog posts on this subject, or go to the INDEX for a complete listing of all our articles.