aquatherm AT75 User manual

POOL & SPA HEAT PUMP
INSTALLATION/OPERATION
MANUAL
Models :
AT75 • AT115 • AT130 • AT150
MODEL # ___________________________________________________
SERIAL # ___________________________________________________
INSTALL DATE ______________________________________________
INSTALLING CONTRACTOR ___________________________________

CONTENTS
Model/Serial #....................................................................Cover
Heat Pump Options....................................................................1
How A Heat Pump Works ..........................................................1
Heating Quick Start & Stop ................................................. 2 - 3
Heater Controls ..........................................................................4
Operational & Programming Codes...........................................5
User Lock Codes.................................................................... 6-7
Plumbing & Water Connections ................................................8
Electrical Connections ...............................................................9
Automation Connections .........................................................11
Seasonal Use & Shut Down.....................................................12
Maintenance & Operation.................................................. 13-14
Proper Water Flow
Water Chemistry Standards
 Pool&SpaRenishing
Irrigation and Storm Run-Off
Proper Clearances
Heating Tips .............................................................................15
Operational & Maintenance Recommendations ......................16
Troubleshooting ................................................................. 17-18
Safety Information ...................................................................18
Recommended Maintenance....................................................19
Aquatherm Contact Information ...............................Back Cover

HEAT PUMP OPTIONS
The heart of your heat pump is the patented titanium heat exchanger. One of the
primary causes of premature heat pump demise is the failure of the heat exchanger.
Ordinary heat exchangers are made from a cupronickel alloy. This cupronickel
material is susceptible to attack from the sanitizers used in pools and spas and from
other related water chemistry conditions. Once the heat exchanger fails, the heat
pump is ruined. The ThermoLink®heat exchanger tube is made from titanium, and
is virtually impervious to water chemistry damage.
Microprocessor Controller
Digitally-based microprocessor controls water temperature to within 1º Fahrenheit
ofsetpoint.Controlleralsopermitsusertopredenedifferentpoolandspawater
temperatures, and to prevent tampering by locking out controls via a pass code. The
microprosser controller also provides superior defrost control, and self diagnostics.
Scroll Compressor
50% fewer moving parts than standard piston-type compressors. This equates to
muchimprovedreliabilityandimprovedefciency.Scrollcompressorsarealso
much quieter in operation than their piston-type counterparts.
Corrosion-Proof Cabinet
The cabinet, being made from resilient, UV-Protected ABS material, has superior
fade resistance and can never rust or corrode. You can expect the cabinet to retain
a like-new appearance with only an occasional wash down and—if so desired—a
quick waxing.
HOW A HEAT PUMP WORKS
Warm Air In
Cool Air
Out
FAN
AIR COIL
EVAPORATOR
COMPRESSOR Pool
Pool Pump
Pool Filter
EXPANSION
VALVE
HEAT EXCHANGER
CONDENSER
Warm Gas
Absorbed Heat From Air
Compressed “Hot” to Pool
After Heat is Give to Pool
Compressed Hot Gas
Warm Water
1

HEATING QUICK START AND STOP
1. Verify Electrical Power is Present at Heater:
A. Ensure that the unit has electrical power connected; the heater controller
display should be illuminated.
B. If the display is blank, be certain the electrical breaker, and heater disconnect,
are switched to “ON.”
C. For now, leave the water circulation pump OFF.
2. Set the Heater Controls (Refer to Control Panel Layout, page 4)
If heater is connected to a Call-Flex controller, please reference installation
manual for details.
 A.Theuser/ownersettingscanbemadewithoutwaterowing.Oncetheheater
haselectricalpowerconnected,withwaternotowing,thedisplayshould
read FLO.
 B.UNLOCKCONTROLbyslidingngeracrosstheyellowarrowonthedis-
play. Press the MODE button until the HEAT (HEA) indication displays.
This will enable the remaining programming keys.
C. Using the POOL / SPA selector key, select the POOL mode. An illuminated
POOLindicatorlight,locatedontheleftsideofthedisplay,willconrm
the POOL control has been selected. If heating only a spa, using the DOWN
arrow key, lower the POOL temperature until OFF is displayed; then proceed
to Step-“E.”
D. Use the UP / DOWN arrow keys to set the desired water temperature for
the POOL water.
E. If the heat pump will be used to heat a spa, use the POOL/SPA selector key
to select SPA, then use the UP / DOWN arrow keys to set the desired water
temperature for the SPA. An illuminated SPA indicator light, located on
theleftsideofthedisplay,willconrmtheSPAcontrolhasbeenselected.
If heating only a POOL, using the DOWN arrow key, lower the SPA
temperature until OFF is displayed.
F. The heat pump controls are now set to maintain the desired water temperature
for the POOL and/or SPA.
3. To Begin Heating:
A. Verify MODE is set to: HEAT (HEA); then, depending on which body of
water is to be heated, use the POOL / SPA selector key to select POOL or
SPA.
 B.Position water valves to ow water from the pool or spa, through the 
heater, and back to the pool or spa.
C. Start the water pump; the fan will start, and after 4-minute time delay the
unit will begin heating. The selected body of water will be brought to
2

temperature and maintained per the setting determined previously in:
“Set the Heater Controls.”
D. In operation, whenever the actual (displayed) water temperature falls
below the desired set point, after an initial time delay of 4-minutes,
the unit will begin heating.
THE HEATER CONTROLLER HAS AN ANTI-SHORT CYCLE
TIME DELAY. IF OPERATION IS INTERRUPTED,
COMPRESSOR RESTART WILL BE DELAYED
BY APPROXIMATELY 4 MINUTES.
4. Program Filter Pump Run Time:
Most pool/spa systems utilize a timer or multifunction controller to manage
lterpumpruntimes.Ifyoursystemincorporatessuchadevice,followthe
instructions below:
A. Itwillbenecessarytoallowthelterpumptoruncontinuouslyuntilthe
waterhasreachedthedesiredtemperature.Ifatimercontrolsthepoollter
pump, it will be necessary to override the timer to allow 24-hr. operation.
B. Once the desired temperature has been obtained (1-4 days), reset the pump
control device. Colder months require longer running times - generally
eight to twelve hours/day.
C. Aheatpumpcanonlyoperatewhenthelterpumpisrunning.Therefore,
it may be necessary–during cooler weather–to extend the water pump’s
hours of daily operation. The increased run time is necessary in order to
keep up with increased, weather-related heat losses.
5. Continuous Usage and Water Around Heater:
CONDENSATION
After the heat pump has been operating for some time, water may be observed
surrounding the heater. The moisture seen is condensation produced as a nor-
mal by-product of transferring heat from the air into the pool or spa water.
Quantities of 6-8 gallons of water produced per hour are common if the
air humidity is high. Conversely, a low humidity condition may result in no
condensation being produced.
6. To Stop the Heat Pump:
A. Select: OFF via the MODE selector. This method of shut down
preserves the controller settings.
B. Aninterruptionofwaterow–suchaswhenapumptimerisin
control–will also halt heat pump operation.
3

HEATER CONTROLS
Appearance may vary by model
1 POOL / SPA SELECTOR – Selects either pool or spa thermostat.
2 UP ARROW – Increases temperature setting. (Maximum setting is
104 oF)
3 DOWN ARROW – Decreases temperature setting. (Minimum
setting is 45 oF)
4 HEATING INDICATOR LIGHT – Indicates unit is heating.
5 MODE SELECTOR – Used to select between Heating and Off.
6 SPA INDICATOR LIGHT – Indicates heater is referencing pool
thermostat.
7 POOL INDICATOR LIGHT – Indicates heater is referencing spa
thermostat.
8 LED DISPLAY – Displays water temperature when no keys are being
pressed. Displays desired temperature when UP ARROW or DOWN
ARROW is pressed. Also displays operational, programming, and
fault codes as applicable.
12345
876
TO UNLOCK CONTROLS:
SLIDE FINGER ACROSS THE YELLOW ARROW
(MAKE SURE FINGER IS DRY)
4

Operational & Programming Codes
FLO No Water Flow Detected
This code appears whenever the circulating pump is off, or when
theheaterisnotreceivingcorrectwaterow.
OFF System is Off
This code appears whenever heater has been turned off via the mode
selector button, or when the temperature set point has been lowered
below 45
o
F.
CFI Celsius/Fahrenheit Selection
This is a programming entry point to select in which format
the water temperature will be displayed.
ULC User Lock Code
This is a programming entry point; when activated, steps to the next
menu level: ELC.
ELC Enter Lock Code
This a programming entry point; permits end user to select a secret
code, thereby limiting access to the owner settings.
CFO Call Flex Options
This is a programming entry point; when used in conjunction with a
Call/Flex option kit, permits the use of CALL or FLEX options.
FS Heater in Defrost Mode
This code appears as a normal display during periods of lower air
temperatures. Sequence follows:
Heat-Only Defrost Sequence: Fan continues to run and compressor
is off. Compressor will restart when air coil temperature rises to
approximately 45° F - 50° F.
LOC This code will display if a button is pushed on the control board without
rstunlockingthecontrolbyslidingngeracrosstheyellowarrowon
the display.
5
Heat pumps contain no owner-serviceable components. Owner-initiated
adjustments, must not be attempted. Failure to heed the following may
result in equipment damage and voiding of manufacturer’s warranty. If
adjustments are deemed necessary, the owner should contact installing
dealer or Aquatherm Customer Support at 239-482-0606.

6
USER LOCK CODE OPTION [ULC]:
Heat pumps are shipped from the factory with the [ULC] option disabled. En-
abling the [ULC] function permits the heat pump owner to restrict access to the
unit’s controls. With the [ULC] function enabled, unless the correct ULC code
number is entered, changes to Level-1 programming are not possible. (I.e.: Alter-
ing temperature set points, Pool/Spa selection, C/F display changes, etc., will not
be possible). The [ULC] option can be thought of as an electronic lockable cover
for the controls.
A. SELECTING ULC OPTION:
1) Press either the UP or DOWN ARROW keys; if “LOC” is momentarily dis-
played followed by “0”, the ULC feature is enabled. If “0” displays proceed
to “6)” of this section; otherwise, see number “2,” below.
2) Simultaneously press and hold both the [UP ARROW] and [DOWN ARROW]
keys until [CF1] (Celsius / Fahrenheit) code appears.
3) Press the [POOL/SPA] key once to display [ULC].
4) With [ULC] displayed, pressing either the Up or Down Arrow key will display
either “1” or “0”. Selecting “0” will allow the keypad to remain unlocked.
Selecting “1” will enable the User Lock Code option. Then, to enter a lock
code number, press the [POOL/SPA] key once to display [ELC] (Enter Lock
Code).
5) With [ELC] displayed, use the Up or Down arrow keys to select a lock code.
The code can be any number from “00” to “99”. The factory set lock code is
“0”. Not pressing any buttons for 15-seconds will allow the controller to save
the selection and return to the normal operating mode. Pressing the {POOL/
SPA] key will also save the selection, and will step the controller to the next
menu parameter: [CFO] (Call Flex Options).
6) Once the ULC option has been enabled, pressing any key will momentarily
display “LOC” followed by “0” (prompting the entry of the correct lock code
number). To gain access to the controller:
a. Using the [UP ARROW] key, scroll to the correct lock code number,
then;
b. Press the [POOL/SPA] key… Current water temperature will be dis-
played… Control setting can now be viewed or changed as desired.
c. After a period of approximately four (4) minutes, during which time no
buttons have been pressed, the controller will automatically return to the
locked mode. Provided ULC selection is set to “1,” the controller will
always fail-safe in the locked mode.

d. Without knowledge of the correct lock code, and with the ULC enabled,
control adjustments will not be possible. Be certain to record your lock
code in a safe place. The lock code may be changed any number of times
by following the instructions detailed in this section.
B. DE-ACTIVATING THE USER LOCK CODE [ULC] FUNCTION:
1) Following the instructions detailed previously at: “8, 6)”, press any key and
enter the user lock code number; then press the [POOL/SPA] key.
2) Immediately following the entry of the user lock code, simultaneously press
and hold the [UP ARROW] and [DOWN ARROW] keys until the code [CF1]
appears on the display.
3) Then, use the [POOL/SPA] key to scroll to the [ULC] message; press the
[DOWN ARROW] key to change the display to “0”. This will disable the
User lock function.
C. USER LOCK CODE IS ACTIVATED, BUT PASS NUMBER IS NOT
KNOWN (“BACK DOOR ENTRY”):
Note: Should the ULC option be enabled, and a lock code number other than
the factory default (0) be installed but is unknown, the following procedure
may be followed to regain controller programming access:
1) Simultaneously press and hold the [POOL/SPA] and [UP ARROW] keys until
the display shows “888”. This operation will reset the controller to the factory
default settings.
2) When reset to the factory default settings the user lock code [ULC] is deacti-
vated and the user lock code number [ELC] is reset to “0.”
3) In addition, all other settings are returned to the factory defaults. If an external
controller is in use, contact Aquatherm at 888-297-3826. Ask for assistance
withre-conguringthecontrollerforusewithanexternalcontroller.
7

UNIT DESCRIPTION
PLUMBING & WATER CONNECTIONS
DATA PLATE
WATER IN 2”
THREADED
UNION
(INCLUDED)
AIR DISCHARGE FAN
WARNING: ROTATING BLADE
KEEP HANDS & HAIR CLEAR
CONTROLS
WITH
LED READ OUT
WATER OUT
2” THREADED
UNION
(INCLUDED)
ELECTRICAL
INSTALLATION
PORTS
2. BYPASS FOR FLOW RATES OVER 70 G.P.M.
Typically the automatic internal water bypass can handle
up to a 1.5 H.P. water pump or 70 G.P.M. If the water
pump exceeds 1.5 H.P. then install either of the optional
bypasses as shown below.  The installation of a ow
meter on the WATER OUT line is suggested. Adjust
the bypass to divert a minimum of 40 to 50 G.P. M.
through the heater. Flow meters should be installed per
the manufacturer’s instructions.
1. BASIC PLUMBING. For a pool
only or spa only, install the plumb-
ing piping as shown. Connec-
tions from factory are 2”unions.
Hand tighten then 1/4 to 1/2 snug
tight with pliers. Water IN on the
RIGHT, Water OUT on the LEFT.
PLUMB AFTER the FILTER &
BEFORE any CHLORINATORS
or CHEMICAL FEEDERS
3. MULTI UNIT WATER CONNECTIONS
Plumbmultipleunitsasshownbelow.Useowme-
ters on each WATER OUT line if two or more units
are plumbed together. Use ball valves to balance the
waterowthrougheachunit.UsingT’s,capsanda
minimum 6 inch pipe extension on the plumbing mani-
foldwillhelpequalizethewaterowbetterthan90˚’s.
Flow meters should be installed per the manufacturer’s
instructions.
8

4. POOL/SPA COMBINATION
W/SPILL-OVER
Use this diagram for a connected pool and spa,
where the spa has a spill-over type waterfall into
the pool. Where one pump and one heater are
used for both the pool and spa. If the water pump
exceeds 1.5 H.P. then install a external bypass.
5.POOL & SPA SEPERATE
Use this diagram for a separate pool and spa not
connected, and does not have a spill-over. Where
thepoolandthespahaveseparatepump&lter
systems but using the same heater.
6. PLUMBING & WATER CONNECTIONS
FOR ABOVE OR BELOW WATER LEVEL
If you install the heat pump above or below the pool
or spa water level by more than 3 feet, the inter-
nal water pressure switch may be effected by the
static pressure of the pool water. In some cases
it may be necessary to eliminate the internal
water “PRESSURE” switch and install a water
“FLOW”switch.Thewaterowswitchisnotef-
fected by changes in water pressure but only water
movement. We suggest installing a 2”, Grid Brand
Model20owswitchanddisablingtheinternal
waterpressureswitch.Plumbintheowswitchas
shown here. Then run a TWO wire insulated cable
fromtheowswitchintotheheaterandattachto
the existing water pressure switch leads located on
the heater’s logic board, behind the low voltage
service panel and wire as shown below.
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS & WIRING
MAKE SURE TO TURN OFF ALL POWER TO UNIT INCLUDING POWER
TO POOL PUMP TIMER PRIOR TO MAKING ANY ELECTRICAL CON-
NECTIONS. SPECIFICATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. ALWAYS
REFER TO WIRING DIAGRAM LOCATED ON THE BACK OF THE UNIT’S
PLASTIC FRONT COVER AND DATA PLATE ON LEFT SIDE OF PLASTIC
FRONT PANEL.
1. SUPPLY WIRING 220V
• Remove plastic corner panel from unit.
• Locate and remove electric box high voltage cover located on left side of electric box.
9

• Determine sealtight length and slip plastic adaptor over conduit. Run conduit
and proper size wire from power supply to the unit’s main contactor located
on the right side of high voltage compartment. The ground wire connection is
located on the base of the box to the left of the contactor. A knock out is located
onthebottomoftheboxjustbelowthecontactor.Asealtightttingmustbe
used to attach the conduit to the electric box.
• Replace electric box high voltage cover.
• Replace plastic corner panel and place conduit and plastic adaptor in slot pro-
vided on right side of unit.
• Run a #8 solid copper wire from the bond lug located on the right side of unit
to pool pump bond wire or a 7 ft. copper rod driven into the ground.
• Turn power to unit and timeclock on.
10
POWER SUPPLY
WIRE SIZE REQUIREMENTS
AT75...................................................#8
AT100.................................................#6
AT115.................................................#6
AT130.................................................#6
AT150.................................................#6

11
AUTOMATION CONNECTIONS
Full Automation: (Uses Automation Thermostats)
Jandy (Zodiac) Aqualink, Goldline Aqualogic, Pentair Easy Touch etc.
2 Wire Connection - Wire into Y & Z
*Need to enter service menu to program HP to communicate with control
Menu Programming Instructions (JAO Paramater):
Slidengeracrosstheyellowarrowondisplaytounlockcontrol
Hold Temp Up Arrow & Temp Down Arrow simultaneously until “CF1”
is shown on display
Press Pool/Spa button 4 times. “LOC” will be shown on the display
Press Temp Up arrow until “50” is shown on display
Press Pool/Spa button until “JAO” is shown on the display
Press Temp Up until “2” is shown on display
Press Pool/Spa button to accept. “JAO” will be shown on display
Wait for water temp to be shown on display
Unit is programmed to communicate with automation control
Pool & Spa Switch: (Uses Heat Pump Thermostats)
3 Wire Connection - Wire into X,Y,Z (Pool, Spa, Common)
*Need to enter service menu to program HP to communicate with control by
setting “JAO” to 3. (Reference above instructions for programming “JAO”
parameter).
**Alternate Method (only connect spa and common wires)
Connect spa and common wires to FS2 connection on board. (Cap the pool
wire, it is not used). Set pool temp in pool mode and spa temp in spa mode.
Menu Programming Instructions (FS2 Parameter):
Slidengeracrosstheyellowarrowondisplaytounlockcontrol
Hold Temp Up Arrow & Temp Down Arrow simultaneously until “CF1”
is shown on display
Press Pool/Spa button 4 times. “LOC” will be shown on the display
Press Temp Up arrow until “50” is shown on display
Press Pool/Spa button until “FS2” is shown on the display
Press Temp Up until “1” is shown on display
Press Pool/Spa button to accept. “FS2” will be shown on display
Wait for water temp to be shown on display
Unit is programmed to communicate with automation control

AT START UP: CONTINUOUS CIRCULATION
PUMP OPERATION REQUIRED
Whenstartingaheatpumpforthersttime,itmustbepermittedtooperate,contin-
uously, until the desired water temperature is attained. This may take several hours,
to several days, depending upon the size of the pool or spa and weather conditions.
If a time clock or similar device controls the operating times of the water circula-
tion pump, temporarily override the water pump controller, allowing for 24-hour,
continuous water pump operation.
Once the body of water has reached the desired temperature, the water pump con-
troller can be reset.
Seasonal Use & Shut Down
During Swim Season
• During the swim season, even if the pool or spa is not in use, allow water to
owthroughtheheater. Doingsoeliminatestheneedto reposition valves
when you do wish to heat the pool or spa.
• During periods when heating or cooling is not desired, leave heater controls
in the OFF position.
Freeze Protection & Extended Shut Down
Inareaswherefreezingconditionsarearareoccurrence,allowtheltrationsystem
to run continuously throughout the freeze period. Typically, during light freeze
conditions, circulating (moving) water will not freeze.
In areas where freezing conditions are prevalent and sustained, the heat pump
MUST be winterized; please refer to winterizing instructions, below, and on the
following pages. Failure to properly winterize your heat pump could result in
permanent damage to the unit.
1. Disconnect all electrical power to the heater; turn OFF circulating pump.
2. At the two (2) connection unions, disconnect the plumbing to the heater
(removal is counter- clockwise).
3. If your unit has an external drain plug, remove plug. This plug would be
located at lower, front corner of heater. (position may vary between models).
Allowwatertodrainoutofthecondensor.DONOTreplacepluguntilnal
winterizing step.
4. If no external drain plug is found, it will be necessary to open access panel
and see if heat exchanger has an internal drain plug. If so, remove plug, and
allow water to drain out of the condensor.
12

MAINTENANCE AND OPERATION
MAINTAIN PROPER WATER FLOW
• Itisimportanttooperateandmaintainthelteraccordingtothemanufacturer’s
specications.Asaltergetsdirty,thewaterowtotheheatpumpisreduced.
Thehigherthepressureontheltergauge,thelowertheowrate.
• Similartoadirtylter,largeamountsofdebrisinthepumpandskimmerbaskets
canreducewaterow.Keepbasketsfreeofdebris.
• Checkforimpropervalvesettings.Apartiallyclosedvalveafterthelter,ora
full-openbypassaroundtheheater,willcauseinsufcientwaterowthrough
heater.
• Iftheconditionslistedaboveremainunresolved,thewaterowthroughthe
heater may be reduced to a point where internal safety devices (i.e.: “HP” or
“HP5”) shut the heater off.
• Beforecallingforservice,alwayscheckthelter,thepumpbasket,andwater
valve positions and turn the breaker off and back on to clear the error. If the
problem persists, please call Aquatherm at: 239-482-0606
MAINTAIN PROPER WATER CHEMISTRY
• IMPORTANT! Your heat pump is engineered for exceptional durability
and reliability. This unit’s heat exchanger—being equipped with titanium
tubing—will be nearly impervious to water chemistry damage. However, other
components of the heater, and the remainder of the pool/spa equipment in
general, may be susceptible to damage from prolonged exposure to unbalanced
water chemistry. There can also be health risks involved with improper water
chemistry
• For the longevity of the entire pool/spa installation, and for the safety of users,
it is strongly recommended that the water chemistry be checked regularly and
maintained within proper norms. The table below lists recommended water
chemistry levels.
Chlorine ......................................1.0 - 3.0 ppm in pools, 1.5 - 3.0 ppm in spas
Bromine ...................................... 2.0 – 4.0 ppm in pools, 3.0 – 5.0 ppm in spas
pH...............................................7.4 – 7.6 ppm in pools, 7.2 – 7.8 ppm in spas
Total Alkalinity.............................80 – 140 ppm in pools, 80 – 120 ppm in spas
Calcium Hardness ......................200 – 400 ppm in pools and spas
Total Dissolved Solids.................1,000 – 2,000 ppm in pools,
1,500 ppm above start-up TDS in spas
*Standards for commercial applications may vary.
RECOMMENDED WATER CHEMISTRY STANDARDS*
13

CAUTION- POOL/SPA REFINISHING OPERATIONS
Duringpoolrenishingoracidcleaning,thewaterowthroughtheheatermust
beshutoff.Waterowtotheheatermustremainoffuntilwaterchemistryisonce
again in balance and the water is clear in appearance. Failure to follow these in-
structions may void heater warranty.
CONTROL IRRIGATION AND STORM RUN OFF
• Control Irrigation: Irrigation water spray can damage heater components.
Regardless of water quality, it is important that irrigation be directed
away from the heat pump.
• Prevent rain water runoff from pouring directly into the heater. The heater is
designed to withstand normal rainfall, but solid streams of water from roof
drip-lines may eventually damage heat pump components.
• If the heat pump resides beneath a roof edge, to promote heat pump longevity,
a rain leader (gutter), or rain shield, will be necessary.
MAINTAIN PROPER CLEARANCES AROUND HEATER
• Formaximumefciency,properairowclearancesaroundheatermustbe
maintained.
• It is important to keep the area immediately adjacent to the heat pump clear
of items such as shrubs and bushes, lawn furniture, chemicals containers, etc.
These items can prevent air from circulating fully through the heater, and will
resultininefcientoperationordamagetotheheatpump.
• In addition, do not place objects on top of the heat pump; doing so will block
the air from exiting the heater, and will result in damage to the compressor
and fan motor.
• Proper clearances are also necessary in order to access the heater for service.
14
12” 12”
12”
36”
6’
60”
FRONT
BACK
FRONT
2”
12” 12”
12”
36”
6’
60”
FRONT
BACK
FRONT
2”

HEATING TIPS
Heating in Cooler Weather...
Late night and early morning, generally being the coolest times of the day, are least
efcientforheating.Formostefcientheatingoperation,heatpumpsshouldbe
timed to operate during the warmest, daylight portions of the day. Please set water
pump and heat pump controls accordingly.
Pool/Spa Blankets
A“solar”blanketwillsignicantlyreduceyourheatingbills.Checkwiththein-
stalling dealer to see if your heat pump was sized to be used in conjunction with
a blanket. Blanketed pools will typically lose only 3 - 4° of heat per night versus
8 - 10° overnight with an un-blanketed pool. Reductions of 40-60% on heating
bills can be achieved by using blankets.
Pool and Spa Combination Heating...
Everything stated for heating a pool applies for heating a spa—only the volume of
water being heated is different. Your heat pump comes equipped with two thermo-
stats. One thermostat is for the pool and the other is for the spa. Simply position the
pool and spa isolation valves as directed by your installer; select the appropriate
thermostat (pool or spa), whichever you are heating, and with electrical power and
waterowsuppliedtotheheater,thewaterwillbemaintainedatsetpoint.
Spa Heating & Spa Setback Option
Air blowing into your spa, while it is being brought to temperature, will very
often neutralize or partially counteract the heat being put into the spa by the
heater; this added heat loss equates to increased time to bring your spa to desired
temperature. When heating a spa, be sure to turn off the air blower. Air induced
through the spa jets should also be eliminated, during warm-up, whenever possi-
ble.
If your heater is being used to only heat a spa, the POOL thermostat can be used as
a setback control: simply set the pool control at a point 10-15º F below desired spa
heat temperature and select the pool thermostat. This method allows the spa–when
not in use–to be held at a heated temperature, but somewhat lower than normal spa-
use temperature. One would want to blanket the spa if using this setback method.
Using spa setback will result in reduced warm up periods over full, cold starts.
WARNING ! Failure to heed the following may result in
permanent injury or death.
Improperly used, Pool-Spa blankets can become a drowning risk to people
and pets. Blankets are not safety covers. They are not designed to support
the weight of a person or pet. Never enter a pool until the blanket is completely
removed (under no circumstances should anyone swim under the blanket).
Follow all safety recommendations of the blanket manufacturer.
15

OPERATIONAL & MAINTENANCE
RECOMMENDATIONS
The information in this section is primarily for the Home Owner, but may also
apply to servicing dealers or HVAC service centers. This section contains infor-
mationconcerningplannedmaintenance,properwaterow,maintainingproper
clearances, as well as other vital information.
Heatpumpsshouldbeinspectedandmaintainedonanannualbasisbyaqualied
swimming pool heat pump specialist. Additionally, if the heat pump is located near
the beach or coastal area, where salt spray and sand can become detrimental fac-
tors, more frequent service may be necessary. For service plan information, please
see: Planned Maintenance Program, later in this section, or contact Aquatherm
Customer Support at: 239-482-0606
While annual maintenance is recommended to maintain your warranty, if you
choose not to participate in the Planned Maintenance Program, rinsing the air coil
regularly, and keeping the base of the unit clear of leaves and debris is a necessity.
Safety During Cleaning Operations
Do not use a pressure cleaner to wash heat pump . . . .
Damage to evaporator ns, as well as other components,
will result.
Failure to heed the following may
result in damage to equipment.
CAUTION !
POSSIBLE ELECTRIC SHOCK HAZARD . . . Should you decide to wash
the heat pump via water hose, disconnect all power to the pool equipment
pad- including, but not limited to: The heat pump, water pump, and any and
all other electrical equipment. Do NOT spray water directly into electrical
components. Do NOT restore electrical power until such time as all water
has dried completely.
Failure to heed the following may
result in permanent injury or death.
WARNING !
16

TROUBLESHOOTING
Heat Pump Fails to Operate:
Is the display illuminated?
If not, ensure the main breaker (located at the power supply panel) and the
disconnect switch (located near the heat pump) are both turned ON.
Is the code “FLO” displayed?
Ifso,checktobesurethatthecirculatingpumpisoperatingandthelter
is clean. There may also be a valve positioned incorrectly allowing water to
bypasstheheatpump.Besurewaterisowingthroughtheheater.
Is the code “HP5” displayed?
Ifso,makesurethelteriscleanandtheunithasgoodwaterow.Turn
breaker off and back on to clear error code once you make sure there is proper
waterow.IftheHP5codedisplaysafterwaterowisdeterminedtobe
proper, and after breaker has been reset, call for service.
Is the Pool or Spa thermostat selected for the correct body of water to be heat-
ed, have you tried selecting a higher temperature setting, and have you chosen
the correct “Mode” of operation?
If not, the actual water temperature may be above that of the selected thermo-
stat. Raise the desired water temperature above the actual water temperature;
the fan should start, and after approximately four (4) minutes, the “Heating”
light should illuminate. If the heat pump still fails to start, and the unit is not
in defrost (heat-only unit defrost display code is: “FS”), contact Aquatherm
Customer Support: 239-482-0606.
Heat Pump Running... but is it Heating?
Is the air blowing out of the top of the unit noticeably cooler than the
surrounding air?
(With heating indicator light illuminated, a 9°F to 12°F difference is typical.)
If not, contact Aquatherm for service at: 239-482-0606. Butrst, be sure all
air coil surfaces are free from obstructions– low roof overhangs, landscaping,
walls,fences,etc.,canrestrictairow.Theheatpumpneedsgoodairowto
operateatpeakefciency.
How many hours/day does the circulating pump operate?
Cooler weather conditions, or heating to a higher than normal temperature,
may necessitate running the heat pump for a longer period of time. Was the
heater sized considering the use of a pool blanket (check with installing deal-
er)? A blanket can be useful in permitting shorter run times, in turn leading
to substantial energy cost savings.
What is the outside air temperature?
The heat pump may be in the defrost mode if air temperatures are below 50°F.
With Heat-Only models, if the heater is in defrost, the code: ”FS” will be
displayed. If air temperatures are not cold, but the heater remains in defrost,
contact Aquatherm at 239-482-0606.
17

Water Coming from the Heat Pump
Is it a leak or just condensation from normal operation?
Here’s how to nd out.
Test the water draining out the heater base for the presence of the sanitizer
being used in the pool or spa. Using a water test kit, or a test strip, check a
sample of the water for chlorine or bromine. If the sample tests positive for
sanitizer, call Aquatherm for service at: 239-482-0606. If the test is negative,
the water is probably harmless condensation.
Or, as an alternate method, shut the heat pump off, leaving the circulation
pump running. Within a few hours, there should be a marked reduction in
the amount of water seen around the bottom of the heat pump. If the water
appears to be drying up, the water is probably harmless condensation, indic-
ative of normal operation.
NOTE: The water test method will not be effective if an ionizer or ozone gen-
erator is being used to produce the sanitizing agent.
CAUTION! If after testing, a water leak is suspected, immediately shut OFF
the water pump and contact Aquatherm Customer Support: 239-482-0606.
SAFETY INFORMATION
Used and maintained properly, your heat pump will provide years of safe and
economical service. However, as with any mechanical or electrical device, to
get the most from your heat pump–while insuring personal safety for you and
others–certain operational and maintenance factors must be observed.
Except for a few minor owner-capable maintenance items (explained later in
this manual), repair and service of your heat pump must be performed only by
licensed service personnel. If you suspect your heat pump is not performing
properly, refer to the Troubleshooting section in this manual to determine if
service is required. Your installer can be one source of service, or you can
call Aquatherm at 239-482-0606 or 888-297-3826. For questions concerning
installation,modications,operation,serviceandupkeep,pleasecontactyour
installer or Aquatherm Customer Support.
WARRANTY MAY BE VOIDED IF THE HEATER HAS BEEN
USED, MAINTAINED, OR REPAIRED IMPROPERLY.
In addition to voiding the manufacturer’s warranty, unapproved installation
methods,nonstandardmodications,poororincorrectmaintenance,service
byunqualiedpersonnel,orimproperuseoftheheatermayresultinperson-
al injury and/or property damage. For personal safety, and to avoid damage
to equipment, follow all safety instructions displayed on the heat pump and
within this manual.
18