Alps Spas XLS series User manual

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OWNER’S MANUALOWNER’S MANUAL

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
1. Table of Contents page 2
2. Owners Record page 3
3. Planning a Location page 4
4. A Good Foundation page 5
5. Placing the Hot Tub page 5
6. Important Safety Instructions page 6
7. Safety Precautions page 7
8. Controls page 8
9. Featured Operations page 9
10. Adding Start-up Chemicals page 10
11. Cleaning or Winterizing page 11
12. Spa Maintenance page 12
13. Troubleshooting page 13
14. Error Codes page 14
15. Cabinet Drain Instructions page 16
16. Electrical Requirements and Guidelines page 17
* Most cities, counties, states, and countries require permits for exterior construction and electrical
circuits. In addition, some communities have codes requiring residential barriers such as fencing and/
or self-closing gates on the property to prevent unsupervised access to a pool or hot tub by children. Be
sure to check with your local agencies for specific requirements.
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OWNERS RECORD
DATE PURCHASED:
DATE INSTALLED:
DEALER:
ADDRESS:
TELEPHONE:
SPA MODEL / SERIAL NUMBER:
Please read this “Owners Manual” carefully, as it is designed to provide you with the information you will need to ensure the safe,
secure use of your new spa.
IMPORTANT: Alps Spas & Alps Manufacturing reserves the right to change specifications or design without notification and
without any obligation.
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PLANNING A LOCATION FOR YOUR HOT TUB
CONSIDER THESE THINGS WHEN DETERMINING WHERE TO PLACE YOUR NEW HOT TUB.
SAFET Y FIRST:
Do not place the hot tub within 10 feet (3m) of overhead power lines. Make sure your hot tub is positioned so
access to the equipment compartment and side panels will not be blocked. Be certain your installation will meet
all city and local safety codes and requirements.
PLANNED USE OF HOT TUB:
How you intend to use your hot tub will help you determine where you should position the hot tub. For example,
will you use it more for recreational or therapeutic purposes? If your hot tub is mainly for family recreation,
leave plenty of room around it for activity and lawn furniture. If you will use it more for relaxation and therapy,
you’ll probably want to create a specific mood around the tub.
ENVIRONMENT:
If you live in a climate with a snowy winter and hot summer, a place to change clothes or a house entry near
the hot tub is convenient. A warmer climate may require shade from the hot sun. Consider placement of
trees, shrubs, patio cover or perhaps a gazebo structure to provide what you will need. Indoor installations
require adequate ventilation. When the hot tub is in use, considerable amounts of moisture are produced. This
moisture can damage walls and ceiling surfaces over time. Special paint is available to resist moisture damage.
Remember that hot tubs periodically require drainage, so plan your environment accordingly.
PRIVAC Y:
Think of your surroundings during all seasons to determine your best privacy options. Consider the view of your
neighbors when you plan the location of your hot tub.
VIEWS:
Think about the direction you will be facing when sitting in your hot tub. Do you have a special landscape you
will find enjoyable? Perhaps there is an area that has a soothing breeze during the day or a lovely sunset in the
evening.
KEEP CLEAN:
Prevent dirt and foliage from being tracked into your hot tub by utilizing concrete for paths and access areas.
Check the location of spill paths from gutters, trees, and shrubs.
SERVICE ACCESS:
Many people choose to install tile or custom wood around their hot tubs. If you are installing your tub with
custom decorative trimming, remember to allow for access to it for service. Should you need service, a
technician may need to remove the tub’s side panels, or access it from beneath. It is always best to design
special installations so the tub can still be moved, or lifted from the ground.
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A GOOD FOUNDATION
PLACING THE HOT TUB
Your new hot tub needs a good solid foundation. The area your hot tub sits on must be able to support the tub,
the water in it and those who use it. If the foundation is inadequate, it may shift or settle after the hot tub is in
place, causing stress to the shell or components.
BE AWARE:
Damage caused by inadequate or improper foundation support is not covered by the hot tub warranty. It is the
sole responsibility of the hot tub owner to provide a proper foundation for the hot tub.
Make sure the foundation where the hot tub is placed drains water away from the hot tub. Proper drainage will
keep components dry from rain and wet weather.
If you choose to install your hot tub indoors, pay close attention to the flooring beneath it. Always remember a
hot tub is filled with water. Choose flooring that will not be spoiled or ruined from water damage. Check with
your contractor to verify your flooring can support the weight and water spills or splashing from your hot tub.
Your hot tub weight must always be considered when installing your hot tub. If you are installing it on an
elevated wood deck or other structure, it is advisable to consult a structural engineer or contractor to ensure the
structure will support the weight.
IT IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED THAT A QUALIFIED, LICENSED CONTRACTOR PREPARE THE
FOUNDATION FOR YOUR HOT TUB.
There is a 4” (10cm) minimum depth requirement for a concrete pad.
CHECK THE DIMENSIONS OF YOUR HOT TUB
Compare the hot tub dimensions to the width of gates, sidewalks, and doorways along the delivery route used
to bring the hot tub into your yard. It may be necessary for you to remove a gate or partially remove a fence in
order to provide an unobstructed passageway to the installation location.
Also, keep in mind—if you are using special equipment to place your hot tub into an area it will be necessary to
include those measurements and weights.
PLANNING A DELIVERY ROUTE:
Check the width of gates, doors and sidewalks to make sure your hot tub will pass through unobstructed. You
may have to remove a gate or part of a fence to allow for adequate width clearance.
If the delivery route will require a 90 degree turn, check the measurements at the turn to ensure the hot tub will
fit.
Check for protruding gas meters, water meters, A/C units, etc., on your home which will cause obstructions
along the delivery path to your yard.
Check for low roof eaves, over hanging branches or rain gutters that could be an obstruction to overhead
clearances.
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES
The use of a crane for delivery and installation is primarily to avoid injury to your hot tub, your property or to
delivery personnel. Your dealer may be able to assist you with the arrangements. Cranes are not considered
“normal delivery” and would need to be a specialty request.
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IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
It is the hot tub owner’s responsibility to read and follow all the instructions and precautions described in this
manual. Failure to do so may result in personal injury. Liability rests with the hot tub owner. Please, make
instructions available for reference by all hot tub users.
1. BEFORE OPERATING THE SPA: READ AND FOLLOW ALL
INSTRUCTIONS. SAVE ALL INSTRUCTIONS.
2. A wire connector is provided on this unit to connect a
minimum No. 8 AWG (8.4mm2) solid copper conductor
between this unit and any metal equipment, metal
enclosures of electrical equipment, metal water pipe, or
conduit within 5 feet (1.5m) of the hot tub.
3. DANGER – Risk of Accidental Drowning. Extreme caution
must be exercised to prevent unauthorized access by
children. To avoid accidents, ensure that children cannot use
this hot tub unless they are supervised at all times.
4. DANGER – Risk of injury. The suction fittings in this hot
tub are sized to match the specific water flow created by the
pump. Should the need arise to replace the suction fittings
or the pump, be sure the flow rates are compatible.
Never operate the hot tub if the suction fittings are broken
or missing. Never replace a suction fitting with one rated
less than the flow rate marked on the original suction fitting.
Always use, new, virgin, fresh parts in hot tub.
5. DANGER – Risk of Electric Shock. Install at least 5 feet
(1.5m) from all metal surfaces. As an alternative, a hot tub
may be installed within 5 feet (1.5m) of metal surfaces if
each metal surface is permanently connected by a minimum
of No. 8 AWG (8.4mm2) solid copper conductor to the
wire connector on the power pack that is provided for this
purpose.
6. DANGER – Risk of Electric Shock. Do not permit any
electric appliance, such as a light, telephone, radio, or
television within 5 feet (1.5m) of the hot tub.
7. WARNING – To reduce the risk of Injury:
a. Before using your hot tub, you should measure the
water temperature with an accurate thermometer since
the tolerance of water temperature-regulating devices
varies ± 5º F (±3º C).
b. The water in the hot tub should never exceed 104° F
(40° C). Water temperatures between 100° F
(37º C) and 104° F (40° C) are considered safe
for a healthy adult. Lower water temperatures are
recommended for young children and when hot tub use
exceeds 10 minutes.
c. The use of alcohol, drugs, or medication before or
during hot tub use may lead to unconsciousness with the
possibility of drowning.
d. Individuals using medications should consult their
physician before using the hot tub since some medications
may induce drowsiness, while other medications may
affect heart rate, blood pressure, and circulation.
e. Individuals suffering from obesity or with a medical
history of heart disease, high or low blood pressure,
circulatory system problems, multiple sclerosis, thyroid
disease, or diabetes should consult their physician before
using the hot tub.
f. Since excessive water temperatures have a high
potential for causing fetal damage during early months of
pregnancy, pregnant or possibly pregnant women should
limit hot tub water temperatures to 100° F
(37º C), you should also consult your physician before
using the hot tub.
g. Heat stroke is a dangerous condition brought about by
excessive heat. It especially affects the very young, elderly,
individuals under the influence of alcohol or drugs,
and those using certain medications. The symptoms
include: sweating, dizziness, nausea, light-headedness,
convulsions, increased pulse rate, shallow breathing,
and in the extreme, unconsciousness. If you suspect heat
stroke, get medical help immediately. Lay the victim on his
back, with the head slightly elevated for easier breathing,
and apply ice packs to the head.
h. Emergency telephone numbers, such as: hospital,
physician, ambulance, paramedics, and the police
should be readily available and posted next to a close-by
telephone.
8. This appliance should be supplied through a residual
current device (RCD) with a rated tripping current not
exceeding 30mA.
9. A means for disconnection must be incorporated into fixed
wiring according to local electrical codes.
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SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
EXTREME CAUTION
DANGER – RISK OF INJURY – READ AND FOLLOW ALL INSTURCTIONS
Hyperthermia: Occurs when the internal temperature of the body reaches a level several degrees above the
normal body temperature of 98.6°F (37ºC). The symptoms of Hyperthermia include dizziness, fainting, drowsiness
or lethargy.
The effects of Hyperthermia include:
1. Unawareness of impending hazard
2. Failure to perceive heat
3. Failure to recognize the need to exit spa
4. Physical inability to exit spa
5. Fetal damage in pregnant women
6. Unconsciousness resulting in a danger of drowning
1. Read, keep, and make these instructions available!
2. Children should be CLOSELY supervised at all times.
WARNING – RISK OF CHILD DROWNING - Extreme caution
must be exercised to prevent unauthorized access by children.
To avoid accidents, ensure that children cannot use hot tub
unless they are supervised at all times.
3. DANGER: To avoid the risk of drowning, keep the filter
clean and unclogged. Do not remove the suction drain
cover. Do not modify the suction or filtration systems.
4. Exercise caution when entering or leaving the hot tub.
When changing positions, be sure of your footing before
applying your full weight, as water refraction can be
misleading and surfaces may be slippery when wet.
5. Do not stay in the water for extended periods of time. Set
reasonable time limits. Leave the hot tub, cool down, take a
shower, relax, and then return for another stay.
6. The water in a spa should never exceed 104 ° F (40°
C). Water temperatures between 100°F (37°C) and 104
°F (40°C) are considered safe for a healthy adult. Lower
water temperatures are recommended for extended use
(exceeding 10 to 15 minutes) and for young children.
7. Since excessive water temperature has a high potential
for causing fetal damage during the early months of
pregnancy, pregnant or possibly pregnant women should
limit spa water temperatures to 100° F (37 ° C).
8. Before entering a spa, the user should measure the
water temperature with an accurate thermometer since the
tolerance of water temperature regulating devises may vary
as much as 5°F (3°C).
9. Persons suffering from obesity or with a medical history
of heart disease, low or high blood pressure, circulatory
system problems or diabetes should consult a physician
before using a spa or hot tub.
10. Never use hot tub alone.
11. Danger- Risk of Injury-
Replace damaged cord immediately.
Do not bury Cord.
Connect to a grounded, grounding type receptacle only.
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CONTROLS

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FEATURE OPERATIONS
AIR CONTROL VALVE
Located around the top of the spa are air control valves. The air control valve serves to regulate the amount of
air mixed with the water when the jets are operational. Rotate the air control to “AIR” to achieve the maximum
jet pressure and therapeutic action. Rotating the air control to “OFF” turns the air off and allows the jets to work
with water only. Turn the air controls to “OFF” when the hot tub is not in use. This will prevent cold air from
entering the hot tub and will keep heating cost to a minimum.
HYDROTHERAPY JETS
The Hydrotherapy jets are recessed and located in the wall of the hot tub. Rotate the jet face clockwise to turn
the jets on, counterclockwise to turn the jets off. Not all jets have a rotational face to turn off and on the jets.
Turning off or on a jet will increase or decrease the effects of any jets “not” in the closed position.
LED MULTI COLOR LIGHT (when equipped)
If your hot tub is installed with a LED Multi Color light at factory, firmly and quickly turning the light switch on
and off will cause the light color effect to change to your desired program.
OZONATORS (when equipped)
If your hot tub is installed with an ozonator at the factory, your hot tub will automatically filter water at preset
times. Please note that ozonator and chemicals work together to kill bacteria. An ozonator cannot totally
eliminate the need for chlorine. Ozone is a bactericide. A tube links the ozone compartment with the ozone jet.
During the filter cycle, when the water pump is on low speed, the water movement through the ozone jet draws
the ozone out of the compartment, mixes with and purifies the water in the process.
WHIRLPOOL JET (when equipped)
Located below the water line at control panel, in the wall, is the whirlpool. This jet has a diverter valve and is a
high capacity jet, with a larger diameter than the hydrotherapy jets. Because there is a substantial amount of
water pressure when the jet is in operation, you must turn the pump off or to low speed before attempting to
rotate the diverter valve.
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ADDING START-UP CHEMICALS
You should have an adequate supply of chemicals on hand for your hot tub. You should familiarize yourself
with the necessary types and amounts of chemicals to maintain your water at clean and healthy levels. Your
dealer should stock the necessary chemicals and is a good source of information on chemicals, procedures, and
testing conditions in your area.
NOTE: The importance of the chemical balance in the hot tub can not be over-emphasized.
WATER MAINTENACE
It may be necessary to replace the hot tub’s water every 3 to 6 months. The frequency depends on a number
of variables including the frequency of use, number of users, attention paid to water quality maintenance,
if equipped with an ozone unit, etc. You will know it is time for a change when you cannot control sudsing
and/or you can no longer get the normal feel or sparkle to the water, even though the key water balance
measurements are all within the proper parameters.
CAUTION: Never store spa chemicals inside the spa’s equipment bay!
PH BALANCE
PH is a measure of water acidity. On a scale of 0 to 14, 7.6 is the ideal point of balance. A measurement below
7.2 indicates that your water is more acidic. This water condition results in corrosion of the equipment’s metal
components. A measurement above 7.8 indicates that your water is more alkaline. This water condition causes
calcium deposits and scaling in the equipment and hot tub. Both conditions are detrimental and cause damage.
NOTE: Calcium deposits can also cause a restriction of air through your jets. Using a stain & scale remover
regularly, will greatly reduce the chance of this occurring.
CHLORINE
Granulated chlorine must be used to remove bacteria and other organic matter from the water. Little or no
chlorine causes water to turn green and unhealthy. Too much chlorine causes water to smell pungent, irritates
the eyes and skin, and can cause damage to the heater tube on the power pack.
NOTE: Improper pH will destroy the pump seals and heater elements. Damage to components caused by
improper pH balance or other improper chemistry will not be covered under warranty.
Alps Spas strongly discourages the use of chemicals that contain Hydrogen Peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide will
eventually cause the light body and lenses (used on all spas) to become brittle and crack.
*Read all labels on chemicals— Do not use any products that omit usage in hot tubs or with ozonators.
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CLEANING OR WINTERIZING
Every three to six months, depending upon the water condition, you may need to renew your water.
CAUTION: READ THIS BEFORE DRAINING YOUR HOT TUB
To prevent damage to the hot tub’s components, turn off power to the spa at the circuit breaker before draining
the hot tub. Do not turn power back on until your spa has been refilled with water.
There are certain precautions to keep in mind when draining your hot tub. If it is extremely cold, and the hot tub is
outdoors, freezing could occur in the plumbing or the equipment. On the other hand, if it is hot outdoors, do not
leave the hot tub’s surface exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.
DRAINING YOUR SPA
 •Trip all GFCI breakers in sub-panel, main electrical panel or unplug your spa
 •Locate end of the drain hose bib and turn gate at hose bib to closed position.
 •Unscrew and remove the drain cap.
 •Attach drain hose to a garden hose and direct to an appropriate draining area, keeping the hose below the
water line. Open gate at hose bib to begin draining.
 •After your hot tub is empty, clean the shell and filter cartridge. See “Spa Maintenance” and Surface care.
 •After cleaning, remove garden hose, close gate at hose bib, replace drain cap and push hose valve
back into cabinet.
 •Follow the “Start-up Instructions” to refill your spa.
Before draining, power must be turned off at the GFCI circuit breaker. Located on the front corner of cabinet,
locate the drain hose bib. Attach a garden hose to the hose bib; make sure the garden hose exit spout will
drain away from hot tub toward a previously selected safe drain area, and open the shut off lever on the hot
tubs hose bib. Water will start to drain. You can also siphon the water from the hot tub. The drain faucet will not
remove all the water. You may have to remove a small amount of the water by hand, using a towel or plastic
container.
If you plan to store your tub for the winter, you must also use a wet-vac to clean out the water lines to ensure
they are free of any water. Water left in the lines might freeze and damage the lines and jets. To adequately
clean out the lines, place the wet-vac over each jet face for 10-15 seconds. On the whirlpool jet, rotate it to the
open position and vacuum for 10-15 seconds. Remove the filter cartridge and do the same. Also, let the water
drain from the heater tube by loosening the black spit-nuts on each side of the heater tube. Remember to re-
tighten the split-nuts when completed. Use the wet-vac to vacuum up any water that may have drained on to the
hot tub floor.
Note: damage caused by improper winterizing will not be covered under warranty. You will want to contact a
professional for proper winterizing.
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SPA MAINTENANCE
FILTER CARTRIDGE MAINTENANCE
Alps hot tubs use a screw in cartridge that is easily removed. When the filter cartridge is removed, make sure no
objects fall into the filter cavity. They can cause obstructions to the water movement.
Every two weeks, the filter cartridge must be cleaned to remove the objects and particles that have lodged in the
cartridge pleats. Using household water pressure and a garden hose with a pressurized nozzle, push water from
inside to outside of the pleats, forcing all the trapped particles out. If the cartridge is far too dirty to be cleaned
as described above, contact your Alps dealer for a replacement.
NOTE: Never run your hot tub without a filter cartridge!!!
NOTE: Filter cartridges must be replaced every six months. Restrictions in Filter quality can cause your hot tub
pump to burn out and will not be covered under warranty.
FILTER CARTRIDGE REMOVAL AND CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS
Turn the power to the spa off, and then follow directions below:
 • Removeweirbypullingupward.Removebasketthenunscrewcartridgebyturningcounterclockwise.
 • Carefully lift the filter cartridge and bring it out of the spa.
 • Rinse cartridge using a garden hose. Rotate and separate filter pleats while spraying water to remove all
dirt and debris possible. Let filter dry and look for calcium deposits (scaling) or an oil film. If you find
these, you will need to deep clean your filter cartridge with a “spa filter cleaner” solution to break down
and remove unwanted deposits and oils. (For longer filter life you should soak filter regularly.)
CAUTION! Always use proper eye protection when using chemicals, or high pressure water. Read instructions on
cleaning products and follow applicable safety and warning instructions listed on label.
 • Replace filter cartridge, then return basket and weir, before turning the spa’s power back on.
CAUTION! Never scrub the polyester mesh filter cartridge with a brush, as this will cause the polyester mesh to
wear out and come apart. Never let the spa pump run or have a filter cycle come on without a filter cartridge in
the skimmer compartment. Running the spa without a filter cartridge may permit debris to enter the spa plumbing
and void the warranty!
SURFACE CARE
Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners to clean the hot tub. Consult your Alps dealer for the proper cleaners.
Typically, a mild detergent and water will resolve cleaning issues.
CAUTION! Never spray cabinet with a garden hose for any reason since this action may induce an electrical short
in the hot tubs electrical equipment.
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TROUBLESHOOTING PROCEDURES
In the event your Alps hot tub is not working the way it should, please first review all the installation and
operating instructions in this manual and check the message on the panel display. If you are still not satisfied it
is working properly, please follow the appropriate troubleshooting instructions.
Note: If any of the manufactured installed supply cords are damaged, they must be replaced by authorized
service personal.
CAUTION! WARNING! SHOCK HAZARD! No User Serviceable Parts.
Do not attempt service of this control. Contact your dealer or service organization for assistance. Follow all
owners’ manual power connection instructions. Installation must be performed by a licensed electrician and all
grounding connections must be properly installed.
NO COMPONENT OPERATION
Check the following:
1. Is there power to the hot tub?
2. Is the household circuit breaker tripping?
3. If 1 & 2 are yes, call your authorized dealer for service.
PUMP DOES NOT OPERATE, BUT THE LIGHT DOES
Press the JETS button:
The pump operates but no water flows to jets. Pump may not be properly primed. This can happen after the
spa is drained and refilled. Press the JETS button several times, never leaving the motor on for more than
5-10 seconds at-a-time.
POOR JET ACTION
1. Press the JETS button to make certain the pump is on.
2. Rotate the air control to the “max” position.
3. Make sure the water level is at the texture line.
4. Check for dirty filter. Clean, if necessary.
5. Make sure all jets are in the open position
WATER IS TOO HOT
1. Check desired temperature on topside control
2. Check for a diagnostic Message (see Control System manual for details)
OH - Overheat (spa is deactivated) DO NOT ENTER THE WATER.
If the spa water has reached overheated you can remove the cover to promote heat reduction. Overheating
may occur if the filter cycle is set too long. The hot tub Control System should reset itself when the water
temperature reduces below 106ºF or 43ºC. When the hot tub falls below the reset temperature you can push
any button on the topside control to reset the Control System. If the hot tub will not reset, then shut off power
to the spa and call your dealer or service organization.
FL – Flow
A pressure switch is not working. Call your dealer or service organization.
Sn – Sensor (spa is deactivated)
The high-limit sensor or water temperature sensor is not working. Call your dealer or service organization.
Your authorized Alps Spa dealer is a trained service repair center. Should checking the above steps fail to
correct the problem, please call your dealer so they may arrange service of your product.
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ERROR CODES
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ERROR CODES (continued)
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1. Inset closed position 2. Extended closed position
(pull out to fully extended
position and remove cap);
place cap in safe place.
3. Full extended closed
position (attach garden
hose in the full extended
closed position).
4. Open position for draining
(turn hose and fitting � turn
clockwise and insert � way
to open position for
draining).
5. Open position for draining
(turn hose and fitting � turn
counter clockwise and pull
out to full extended closed
position).
6. Full closed extended
position (remove hose and
replace cap).
7. With replaced cap
screwed on, turn � turn
clockwise and push in all
the way to inserted closed
position.
8. Closed inserted position.
DRAIN INSTRUCTIONS
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CABINET DRAIN INSTRUCTIONS
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• From main panel, run 6-2 with ground to outside disconnect.
• Run 6-2 with ground from outside disconnect to spa.
• ALPS SPAS recommends that a 60 AMP 220 GFCI
must be used in disconnect.
• Disconnect must be at least 6 ft. from spa!
• Any of the four panels can be drilled out and removed for
easy electrical entry.
• Wire may be drilled thru bottom consult dealer for
drilling specifications.
• All exposed wire must be INSTALLED IN CONDUIT and have
proper connectors.
• ALPS SPAS is not responsible for any mis-wiring of control panel.
• All models require a 60 AMP GFCI.
ALUMINUM WIRE WILL VOID WARRANTY!
Swim Spa electrical requirements
From main panel install a 60 AMP GFCI 220 breaker.
Run no# 6-3 with ground. (2 hots, neutral and ground - 4 wires)
Install an outside disconnect (with 60 AMP GFCI Breaker)
No closer than 6 ft from SPA!
Hard wire from disconnect to Swim Spa control panel.
U.S. Only / For European wiring diagram please consult with your dealer.
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ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS AND GUIDELINES
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