The Shocking Truth About Faulty Hydrotherapy Tubs: A South Florida Investigation

Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, August 21st 2025 at 4:36 GMT by 7News Miami
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For decades, hydrotherapy tubs – those relaxing whirlpools found in many homes and hotels – have been a staple for stress relief and muscle relaxation. But an alarming investigation by Miami’s WSVN 7 News has uncovered a potentially dangerous flaw lurking within some of these seemingly innocuous fixtures, impacting hundreds of families across South Florida and beyond. The issue? Electrical currents leaking into the water, posing a serious risk of electrocution.

Howard Cohen's "Help Me Howard" segment brought to light a disturbing pattern: numerous homeowners have reported experiencing electric shocks while using their hydrotherapy tubs. These aren’t isolated incidents; WSVN 7 News has documented over 200 complaints spanning multiple counties in Florida, with similar reports surfacing in other states like Texas and California. The victims range from children to elderly individuals, all unknowingly putting themselves at risk during what should be a relaxing experience.

The problem stems primarily from two manufacturers: Jacuzzi and Sundance Spas. While both companies have issued recalls for specific models over the years, many homeowners remain unaware of these alerts or are still using tubs that haven’t been properly repaired. The root cause appears to be corrosion on grounding wires within the tub's electrical system. This corrosion compromises the wire’s ability to safely divert electricity away from the water, creating a pathway for current leakage.

The danger isn’t just a minor tingle; it can range from painful shocks to serious burns and even cardiac arrest. One homeowner, Maria Rodriguez, described her terrifying experience: "I felt this jolt go through me… I screamed, I jumped out of the tub." Her husband, who attempted to help her, also received a shock. Fortunately, neither suffered lasting injuries, but the incident left them deeply shaken and questioning the safety of their home.

What makes this situation particularly concerning is the difficulty many homeowners face in identifying whether their tub is affected. Recalls often cover specific model numbers and production dates, requiring owners to meticulously search for information and compare it to their own tub’s details. Many are unaware that even if a recall was issued for their particular model, repairs may not have been completed properly or the issue could reoccur due to ongoing corrosion.

Jacuzzi has acknowledged the problem and maintains that they are working to address the concerns. They offer resources on their website (jacuzzi.com/recall) where customers can enter their tub’s information to determine if it's subject to a recall. Sundance Spas similarly provides recall information on their site (sundancespas.com/recall). However, critics argue that these efforts haven’t been sufficient in reaching all affected homeowners and ensuring proper repairs are carried out.

The investigation revealed a complex web of responsibility. While manufacturers bear the primary burden for producing safe products, plumbers and repair technicians also play a crucial role in ensuring proper installation and maintenance. WSVN 7 News found instances where faulty wiring was not identified during previous repairs, contributing to the ongoing risk.

Beyond the immediate danger of electrocution, the investigation highlights broader issues regarding product safety and consumer awareness. The sheer number of complaints underscores the need for more proactive measures to identify and address potential hazards in household appliances. This includes improved communication from manufacturers about recalls, stricter regulations on hydrotherapy tub installations, and increased public education campaigns to raise awareness among homeowners.

The legal ramifications are also significant. Several lawsuits have been filed against Jacuzzi and Sundance Spas alleging negligence and failure to warn consumers of the electrical risks associated with their products. These cases could potentially result in substantial financial settlements for affected families.

Howard Cohen’s investigation serves as a crucial wake-up call, urging homeowners to take immediate action to protect themselves and their families. The steps are relatively simple: first, check your tub's model number against the manufacturer's recall lists. If it is subject to a recall, schedule an inspection and repair with a certified technician. Even if your tub isn’t listed in any recalls, consider having a qualified electrician inspect the wiring for corrosion and ensure proper grounding.

Finally, be vigilant. Pay attention to any unusual sensations while using the tub – tingling, buzzing, or even a slight shock – and immediately discontinue use and consult with a professional. The pursuit of relaxation shouldn't come at the cost of safety; it’s time to address this shocking truth and ensure that hydrotherapy tubs remain a source of comfort, not danger.

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The Shocking Truth About Faulty Hydrotherapy Tubs: A South Florida Investigation