Drowning hazard recall alert from CPSC
News
April 14, 2026
Drowning hazard recall alert from CPSC

More than 30,000 hydromassage jets used in residential hot tubs have been recalled due to a potential drowning hazard, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The recall was announced on February 13, 2026.

The recall involves 6-inch rotary hydromassage jets installed in Highlife Collection spas manufactured by Watkins Wellness.

According to the CPSC, the jets can generate suction capable of drawing in and entangling a bather’s hair. If that occurs, a person’s head can be held underwater, creating a risk of drowning.

The manufacturer has received one report of hair entanglement involving the recalled jets. No injuries or fatalities have been reported.

The recall covers jets installed in Highlife Collection models — Grandee; Envoy; Vanguard; Aria; Prodigy; Sovereign; Jetsetter; and Jetsetter LX — from model years 2023 through 2025. The affected jets were also sold separately as replacement parts. Products were distributed through independent dealers nationwide between October 2022 and September 2025.

The recalled jets can be identified as 6-inch rotary units with six fins and a distinctive red circle marking.

The CPSC notice also provides guidance on locating the spa’s serial number label to help confirm whether a unit is affected.Consumers are instructed to stop using the hot tubs immediately until the jets are replaced.

Watkins Wellness is offering free replacement jets and installation instructions. No alternative operating guidance — such as disabling or removing the jets while continuing

Location of the serial number on the Highlife Collection spas to use the spa — is provided in the CPSC notice.

The recall involves more than 30,000 individual jets; the number of spas affected is not specified.

While suction entrapment hazards are most commonly associated with drain fittings covered under the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act, this recall highlights that similar risks can arise from other circulation components. The CPSC notice does not state whether the recalled jets were compliant with or exempt from specific VGB provisions.

For service professionals, the recall demonstrates the importance of inspecting not only suction outlets but also therapy jets and other fittings capable of generating localized suction forces — and advising customers of any potential dangers.

Consumers are advised to contact Watkins Wellness for replacement parts and to follow the instructions provided. The CPSC also encourages reporting of any incidents involving product hazards through its standard consumer reporting channels.

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