Balboa · VS / GS and BP seriesHeads-up

Pr on a Balboa hot tub: priming mode

The tub has just been powered up and is in priming mode for 4 to 5 minutes so you can push air out of the pumps. The heater stays off until priming ends. This is normal.

Also shown as: PR, RUN PMPS PURG AIR, priming mode, M019

Most likely causes

  1. 1Power was just turned on or restoredmost likely
  2. 2Brief power cut or breaker resetcommon

What to try, in order

  1. Use the jets buttons to run each pump briefly and confirm water is flowing from the jets.
  2. If a pump hums but moves no water, switch it off and bleed the air lock before trying again.
  3. Wait 4 to 5 minutes for priming mode to end, or press a temperature button to exit early once water is flowing.
  4. After priming, the display shows dashes, then the temperature.

Pr questions

How long does priming mode last?

About 4 to 5 minutes on most Balboa systems. You can end it early by pressing a temperature button once the pumps are moving water.

Why does my tub keep going into priming mode?

Priming mode starts every time power comes on. If it happens often, the tub is losing power, which may be a tripping breaker or a loose supply connection that an electrician should check.

Related codes

Balboa -- · Temperature not yet knownBalboa CHEK PH · Maintenance reminderBalboa CLN FLTR · Filter reminderBalboa CNFG FAIL · Configuration errorBalboa dr · Heater may be dryBalboa dry · Heater is dryBalboa Ecn · Economy modeBalboa FLO · Low water flow

General guidance. Follow your manufacturer's instructions; anything inside the control box is work for a licensed professional. Updated October 5, 2026.