Spa Controller Error 6 / ER 06 / ER06 / ER.6 – What It Means & How to Fix It
Error 6 is one of the most common faults in spas and hot tubs. It may appear as ER 06, ER06, or ER.6. On older Gecko controllers, it displays as three flashing dots.
Some causes can be easily checked, but others will require professional assistance.
⚠️ EXTREMELY IMPORTANT: Dangerous Voltages Present – 240V
Never open or remove a spa controller panel unless you are a qualified person. Inside the controller, 240V wiring is exposed and can cause serious injury or death. Always isolate power before inspecting or servicing any spa equipment.
Engage a licensed electrician experienced in spa equipment.
What is Error 6?
In Davey, SpaQuip, and SpaNet spa controllers, Error 06 means the thermal cut-out has tripped. This is a safety mechanism that stops the heater from overheating. It's typically triggered by a device called a Klixon or high-limit thermostat.
Common Causes of Error 6
- Faulty Circulation Pump or 2-Speed Pump: This can be intermittant and can be caused by anything from a bad capacitor or faulty windings.
- Faulty / Corroded Klixons (High Limit Switch): If a heater has leaked, the assembly should be replaced.
- Faulty Pressure Switch: Pressure switch should be open-circuit when there is no power, and should be closed-circuit once pump is running.
- Dirty filters: Remove and clean filters. Blocked filters can restrict water flow.
- Air lock or blocked plumbing: Bleed air by loosening unions. Check for any blockages in the pipework and pump impeller.
- Low water level: Ensure water level is above the jets.
- Closed valves or jets: Ensure all valves and jets are open and functioning properly.
- Blocked suction or skimmer fittings: Clear any obstructions.
Note: The following causes typically require an electrician or qualified technician:
- Circulation pump not running or intermittent: Test for power to pump, check capacitors and windings. Replace if faulty.
- Impeller blocked or broken: Inspect inside pump housing.
- Heater corrosion or blockage: Remove panel (only if qualified) to inspect heater assembly.
- Tripped or damaged Klixon (thermal cut-out): If open-circuit, it may need replacing.
- PCB issues: Dry solder joints and other faults on the circuit board are common, especially in older models.
How to Reset Error 6
If the root cause is fixed, the error may be reset as follows:
Davey / SpaQuip Controllers
- SP800 / SP1200: Turn power off and on. Press the top 4 buttons simultaneously to reset.
- SP400 / SP500 / SP600 / SP601 / 54500: Turn power off and on. Press Up, Down, and Pump buttons together to reset.
- SP750 / SP1000: Turn power off. Some models have a reset button on the heater’s high-limit switch. Check for bad solder joints on the PCB (a known issue).
SpaNet Controllers
- Turn power off for at least 1 minute, then turn back on.
Note: If the fault is still present, the error will return after reset.
Older Gecko Controllers – 3 Flashing Dots
On some older Gecko systems, the error shows as 3 flashing dots. The pressure switch must be open-circuit before startup. Once the pump begins, the switch must close. If the switch is stuck closed, the error will remain.
Need Help?
In-House Inspections & Repairs: We offer in-house diagnostics and repairs. Click here for more info.
On-Site Technicians: We do not carry out on-site service work. For a list of independent technicians, visit: www.spatechs.com.au
