Many Sundance hot tub owners hear the pump running for hours and assume something is wrong. In most cases, this is simply the **filtration cycle** – which automatically runs every day to keep the water clean and circulated.
If there are no error codes showing (like FL, FLO, OH, or blinking lights), a long pump run is usually normal and safe.
✔ When Long Pump Run Time Is Normal
- The hot tub just turned on after being off/disconnected
- Water temperature is much lower than the set temperature
- Filtration cycle has started (usually 4–8 hours per day)
- No error codes are showing on the display
- Water looks and smells normal
🌀 What Is the Filtration Cycle?
The pump runs automatically for a set number of hours per day to maintain clean, sanitized water. This helps:
- Circulate sanitizer chemicals
- Prevent algae/bacteria buildup
- Heat water evenly
- Reduce risk of FLO/FL/OH errors
🛠 How to Change Filtration Duration (Typical Sundance)
- Press and hold **Menu** or **Settings** on the topside panel.
- Navigate to **Filtration** or **FILT Cycle**.
- Choose cycle length: 2, 4, 6, 8, or 12 hours.
- Confirm using **Plus/Minus** or **OK** button.
- Exit menu. The pump will now follow your new schedule.
💡 For best water quality, Sundance often recommends **4–8 hours per day** of filtration.
⚠ When Long Pump Running *Is* a Warning Sign
If the tub runs constantly **and** one of the following appears, it may be a problem:
- FL / FLO – flow/pressure issue
- OH – overheat warning
- Water is not heating
- Smell of burning or electrical odor
- Bubbles but no jet power
If a warning code shows:
Turn the power off for 60 seconds and restart. If the code returns, check water level, clean filter, and ensure circulation outlets are not blocked. Persistent errors should be checked by a spa technician.
📌 Summary
- Long-running pumps are often **normal filtration mode**.
- Check filtration cycle time in the control panel.
- If NO errors appear — it's usually safe.
- If an error code is flashing — treat immediately.
Last updated: 24 Nov 2025