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Replacing 6kw heater with 4kw

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timbauks:
I’m looking to get my spa back up and running as we are trying to sell our house.  The heating element has gone and need a cheap replacement.  I found an open box No Fault 4kw element for about $300 less than the current heater exact replacement which is a 6kw No Fault.  My question is, can downgrading the element still work?  Will it simply use more power to sustain temp?  Take longer to get to temp?  I’m asking about a Tiger River 2002 Siberian.  Thanks!

bud16415:
I wouldn’t do it. Besides the obvious reason of misleading the potential buyer and possibly passing on a problem that will make the heater short lived. I’m assuming you are hoping to get more for the home with a working tub as part of the deal. I would sell it as is telling the new owner it needs a heater replacement allowing them to decide or fix it with the correct parts and add it to the cost of the house. A 17 year old hot tub is worth very little even working. The new owner might like that it is wired and has suitable location for a new tub and opt to upgrade anyway.

timbauks:
Thank you for the reply.  I’m actually asking as to not mislead anyone.  That’s why I’m asking the question.  If it’s going to cause a problem I’m not going to do it.  So I guess this doesn’t answer the question.

bud16415:
I understand. I would say you should be able to make it work. as long as you have 240v heater and a 240v power source it will heat water. It will just be slower. What I don’t know about is how the circuit is protected for over current and how that will work out. The larger unit of course will draw more power and fusing/breakers would be sized for that size unit. The GFCI aspect of the overall safety should work the same.

I don’t have the expertise to know what is in the control system of the heater and how it will interact with a lower wattage device. Maybe some of the pro members will comment that have a service background and have done retrofits. 

castletonia:
Only difference is it will heat slower.

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