Why does the yacht’s pool lose water when the hydromassage system is activated?
Sometimes, when activating the hydromassage system in a yacht’s pool, you might notice water leaking or seeping into compartments below the pool. At first glance, this may seem like a malfunction, but in many cases, it's actually related to the specific configuration of the onboard system. In fact, in many setups, the hydromassage doesn’t draw water directly from the pool but from a technical tank known as the compensation tank.
Understanding how this system works—and which precautions to take—is essential to avoid unwanted water overflows. Here’s what you need to know.
How does the system work, and why does water overflow during hydromassage?
On some yachts, the pool’s hydromassage system is connected to the compensation tank instead of drawing water directly from the pool. This design choice is driven by structural considerations and the need to optimize technical spaces onboard, avoiding interference with load-bearing components of the hull.
When the hydromassage system is activated, the water follows a precise cycle:
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It is drawn from the compensation tank;
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Then pushed into the pool through the hydromassage jets;
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The excess water is expected to flow back into the compensation tank via the overflow channel.
The issue arises when the volume of water entering the pool exceeds the amount that can be returned via the overflow channel. As a result, the water level in the pool rises too quickly, leading to overflow and potential seepage into the surrounding compartments.
How to prevent water loss during hydromassage: practical tips
To avoid water rising above safe levels during use of the hydromassage system—and the resulting risk of overflow or leaks—it's important to follow a few technical precautions. These are simple but effective measures that help keep the system stable, even with frequent use or crew turnover onboard.
Limit the duration of the hydromassage cycle
Stick to the operational parameters set during installation. Typically, the cycle should last no more than 7–10 minutes to allow the compensation tank to properly handle water circulation.
Check the setting of the hydromassage pump valves
The hydromassage pumps should have their delivery valves partially closed (about halfway) to reduce water flow and keep the pool level within a safe range.
Keep all crew members informed
Frequent crew changes can lead to a loss of technical knowledge. It’s essential that each new team onboard receives clear instructions on how the system works—especially regarding settings critical to safe hydromassage use.
Centro Italia Yachting is here to help
If the issue continues despite following these guidelines, our technical support team is here to assist. You can reach us by calling the toll-free number 800.931.931. Thanks to our remote monitoring and control systems, we can check the system’s status, detect anomalies, and even intervene remotely—often without needing to send a technician onboard. This allows for fast, targeted support and minimizes system downtime, helping you restore full functionality as quickly as possible.