How to repair Intex PureSpa pump (E90 / Error 90) - please read DESCRIPTION for important notes

2/22/20 UPDATE: Error 90 results from a sensor detecting lack of water flow. There are two well-known causes for flow problems: clogged filters and a broken water pump. (And if you're not replacing your filters monthly, you're likely putting strain on the pump, which accelerates its failure.)

This video assumes you've first replaced the filters but of course many of us don't do that monthly as recommended. If you haven't done that, DO IT BEFORE following this video. Thanks to Jason Smith for that reminder! See his video here:    • Intex PureSpa - 30 Second Fix For The...  

If that doesn't fix the problem, you have a more serious issue like a broken pump, and the instructions in this video are a good next step.

2/14/20 UPDATE: There are several votes for 304 stainless steel 1/8" rod. See the "What you'll need" section below for more details.

7/5/19 UPDATE: You don't need to drain the water from the spa to do this. Jump to 0:19:25 to see and hear how to block the water ports from draining.

7/29/18 UPDATE: I've received a handful of comments that it's easier to repair with the pump unit on its side rather than upside down. Thanks for those suggestions!
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ORIGINAL DESCRIPTION: For those who own the Intex PureSpa, I think it's only a matter of time before your pump breaks. You'll know it's broken when you see "Error 90" in the display, accompanied by a long beep every few seconds. If you're lucky, it's the pump, because it's not a difficult fix. But a warning: you may have to fix it more than once.

What you'll need:

Phillips screwdriver

PureSpa hex wrench (supplied with spa)

2 - 7/8" of 1/8" non-ferrous rod - you'll hear me talk about various options I explored. Right now brass is the best I've come up with, though it wears out as well (just not as quickly as carbon fiber). 2/14/20 edit: There are a growing number of positive votes for 304 stainless steel 1/8" rod for its balance of high resistance to corrosion, hardness / durability, and non-magnetic.

Dremel cut-off wheel or narrow fine-toothed hacksaw

Abrasive wheel or fine-tooth file to deburr and smooth rod ends