RENU Hot Tub Broken Old Style Manifold To New Barb Style Retrofit How To Spa Guy

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of retrofitting an old style hot tub manifold to a new barb style manifold. This upgrade simplifies repairs and reduces the likelihood of leaks, ensuring your hot tub functions efficiently.

Step 1: Remove the Old Manifold

• Inspect the existing manifold for damage, such as cracks or breaks, particularly from freeze damage.
• Cut away all damaged sections using appropriate PVC cutters:
  • Use larger cutters for 2-inch and 1.5-inch pipes.
  • Use smaller cutters for pipes up to 1 inch.
• Ensure that you cut the pipe back far enough to reach solid, undamaged sections.

Step 2: Clean the Pipe Ends

• Use a rag or a Brillo pad to clean the ends of the pipes you will be working with.
• Remove any foam or debris using a knife and scouring pad to ensure a clean surface for gluing.

Step 3: Prepare for the Retrofit Kit

• Obtain a Renu Retrofit Kit that includes barbed couplers and 2-inch flex pipe.
• Identify the sizes of the pipes in your system to ensure you have the right couplers for each connection:
  • Common sizes may include 2-inch, 1.5-inch, and 3/4-inch.

Step 4: Apply Purple Primer

• Before gluing, apply purple primer to all fitting surfaces to ensure a strong bond.
• Allow the primer to dry for a few moments.

Step 5: Glue the Connections

• Use Christy's Red Hot Blue glue for bonding:
  • Apply glue inside the coupler and on the end of the pipe.
  • Push the coupler onto the pipe while spinning it until it stops (this is the "spin it to win it" technique).
• Repeat for each connection, making sure to apply glue to both sides before joining.

Step 6: Install the New Manifold

• Attach the new barb style manifold:
  • Glue the manifold's bushing into the manifold itself without using primer (it’s a new-to-new connection).
  • Connect the flex pipe to the manifold and any additional fittings as necessary.

Step 7: Secure with Clamps

• After gluing, slide clamps onto the flexible connections before they dry.
• Tighten the clamps securely to prevent any future leaks.

Step 8: Final Inspection and Testing

• Inspect all connections to ensure there are no visible gaps or misalignments.
• Fill the hot tub and check for leaks around the newly installed manifold and connections.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you have successfully converted an old style hot tub manifold to a modern barb style manifold. This upgrade not only simplifies repairs but also greatly reduces the chances of leaks. For procurement of the retrofit kit, visit Hot Tub Parts of America. Regular maintenance and proper winterization practices will help avoid future issues. Enjoy your rejuvenated hot tub!