AQUATHERMA Nature Series User manual

Owner’s Manual
NATURE SPAS –URBAN SPAS
V180323

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Introduction.................................................................................................................. 2
4. Safety instructions …………….......................................................................................... 3
5. Components - Spa basin ............................................................................................... 4
6. Components - Technical module …................................................................................ 6
7. Components - Pump………………...................................................................................... 7
8. Components - Electronic .............................................................................................. 8
9. Components–Filtration ................................................................................................ 9
10. Accessories .................................................................................................................. 10
11. Water treatment.......................................................................................................... 12
12. Closing procedures …………………………….…………………………………………………...…………… 13
1

INTRODUCTION
We would like to congratulate you on the purchase of your AQUATHERMA spa, Nature or Urban
Series.
In addition to the best value for your money, you have chosen the best guarantee and a personalized
after-sales service.
The purchase of a spa is often the realization of a dream and represents an investment for many
years.
At Aquatherma, we are very aware of this and it is why we created this little booklet to help make
the use and maintenance of your purchase enjoyable.
Keep this reference guide handy in case you need it for future reference. We also invite you to
contact your dealer to answer all your questions. Our experts are there to advise you and help you.
You can also visit our website at www.aquatherma.ca.
We wish you a beautiful summer and enjoy your new purchase!
For additional protection, we suggest that you notify your insurance company of your new purchase.
Remember, even if you use your spa only seasonally, you are the owner and responsible all year
round!
2

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Read and apply all the following instructions.
The physiological response of hot water exposure is subjective and may vary depending on your age, health status
and medical history. If you do not know your level of hot water tolerance or if you experience headaches, dizziness
or nausea when using your spa, leave the spa and cool off immediately.
Aquatherma spas have been designed to be safe for private residential use. Please contact your representative if the
purpose of your unit is to change or become public as specific options and precautions will need to be part of your
unit.
Never modify your unit. Modifying your unit could result not only in significant damage but also in serious injury or
even death.
WARNINGS
1. When the spa is not in use, keep the hard cover properly installed and locked at all times.
2. Children should never use the spa except under the watchful supervision of an adult.
3. Children should not use a spa with a water temperature higher than body temperature (37°C).
4. Prolonged immersion in water above 38°C may pose health risks.
5. It is recommended to set the temperature to a lower level or to limit use by children or people who may be
affected by hot temperatures. Always confirm the water temperature with an accurate thermometer before
entering the spa.
6. Do not allow children to immerse their head in the spa.
7. Do not allow children to walk on the hard cover even if it is properly locked.
8. Do not use the spa unless all suction guards are in place in order to prevent accidental suctioning of the body
and hair. Avoid walking and sitting on or in front of the suction devices (skimmer and drain(s)). This could affect
water flow or cause serious injury.
9. Avoid operating the spa pump at a high setting if any suction or circulation hose is not properly in place.
10. When the spa is not in use, make sure its hard cover is securely in place and locked.
11. People on medication and/or have a history of adverse medical conditions should consult a physician before
using the spa.
12. People with infectious diseases should not use the spa.
13. Use caution when entering or exiting the spa. If it is possible to do so, install a grab bar or ramp. Before entering
the spa, stop the jets to better see the steps or the air inlet.
14. To avoid the risk of unconsciousness or drowning, do not use drugs or alcohol before and during spa use.
15. Pregnant women should consult a physician before using the spa.
16. Avoid using the spa after a vigorous exercise session. Forbid the use of electrical appliances (lamps, telephones,
radios, televisions, etc.) within 1.5 meters of the spa.
17. Test the ground fault circuit breaker monthly.
18. Display phone numbers for emergency services in your area, such as ambulance, police and fire services near
the phone most quickly accessible from the spa.
19. Maintain the chemical balance of the water in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
3

COMPONENTS Spa basin
INSTALLATION OF THE FIBREGLASS SPA
Your spa is made of polymer materials (gel coat) and several layers of
composite materials (fibreglass). This manufacturing method gives it a
glossy finish and a high durability.
DIMENSIONS / CAPACITY OF SOME MODELS
Note: The dimensions may differ slightly due to more or less pronounced cuts
made at the factory on fibreglass edges.
CAPACITIES
Note: Capacities listed in this table are approximate and based on normal
spa fill.
SPA BASIN MAINTENANCE
Simply clean the gel coat surface with a damp cloth. Never use harsh or
abrasive products.
NEVER EMPTY THE SPA WITHOUT FIRST BEING SURE THAT THERE IS NO
WATER UNDER THE SPA BASIN.
SERIES MODEL DIMENSIONS
NATURE
OASIS
8’ x 10’ x 34’’
NATURE
MIRAGE
8’ x 10’ x 34’’
NATURE
LAGON
10’ x 16’ x 34’’
URBAN
SCANDINAVE
(Polar-LX - Premium) 7’3’’ x 7’3’’ x 38’’
URBAN
BORÉAL
(Polar-LX - Premium) 7’4’’ x 9’4’’ x 38’’
URBAN
VIKING (Nordik
-LX- Premium) 8’2’’ x 10’2’’ x 40’’
URBAN
ISLANDER
(Norvege–LX-
Premium)
6’10’’ x 10’11’’ x 36’’
SERIES MODEL CAPACITIES
NATURE
OASIS
1775 litres
NATURE
MIRAGE
1748 litres
NATURE
LAGON
5500 litres
URBAN
SCANDINAVE
(Polar-LX - Premium) 1775 litres
URBAN
BORÉAL
(Polar-Boréal LX) 1800 litres
URBAN
VIKING ( Nordik
–Viking LX) 1975 litres
URBAN
ISLANDER
(Norvege –LX-
Premium)
3200 litres
Oasis
Mirage
Lagon
Boréal
Viking
Refuge 4

COMPONENTS Spa Basin
JETS
The flow of each jet can be controlled by turning it to the left (less
powerful/closed) or to the right (more powerful/open). The jets can also
be removed.
To do so, grab then turn the entire jet to the left; when completely left,
continue to apply tension to the left to disengage the screw mechanism to
which the jet is fitted to remain in place.
JET MAINTENANCE
We recommend cleaning the jets quarterly: remove the jets then place
them in a container filled with water containing a small amount of dish
soap. Roll the rotating nozzles in the soapy water solution and rinse
thoroughly.
SKIMMER
The skimmer is placed on the top of the spa wall. It is used to suck up
surface water and dirt to send them to the filtration system in the technical
unit.
Never stand directly in front of or leave any object obstructing its face.
Ensure that the water level is always at least half of the skimmer plastic
plate (ideally between the top half and top 2/3).
BOTTOM DRAINS
The drain(s) are placed on the bottom of the spa wall (calf height).
It is used to suck ground water and dirt to send them to the filtration
system in the technical block.
Never stand directly in front of or leave any object obstructing its face.
Be sure to regularly clean the face(s) of the drain(s) so as not to reduce
the flow of water entering it.
Skimmer
Jet
Bottom drain
5
Note that some components may be optional.

COMPONENTS Technical module
Cartridge
filter
Electronic
Keypad
Strainer(s)
Water access
valves
Water heaterElectronic control
housing
Spa basin lighting
wire
Electronic keypad
wire
Pump(s)
6
Notes: The components included in your device may vary depending on the model and accessories chosen.
The motor and electronic components must be installed in a dry, weather-protected area, such as a shed or
housing designed for this purpose.
The housing is made of wood and can stay outdoors. It is recommended to put a protective coating on it.
Housing dimensions
1 pump systems: 42’’ L. X 24’’ W. X 30’’ H.
2 pump systems: 47-1/2’’ L. X 36-1/2’’ W. X 30’’ H.
LAGON systems: No housing available The motor/heating/electronic system is placed on a wooden floor (47-1/2'' L. X 36-1/2''
W. X 30'' H.), and the sand filter with its circulation pump requires a space of approximately 47-1/2'' L. X 36-1/2'' W. X 30'' H.

COMPONENTS Technical module –Pumping systems
PUMP (MOTOR)
The pump circulates the water, in a closed circuit, between the spa and the
technical module in order to be freed from its impurities by the filter and
heated by the water heater before returning to the spa basin through the
water jets.
No special maintenance is necessary. It can stay outside during the winter,
whether used or not.
Only pay attention to:
- Ensuring that the water access valves are all in the OPEN or UP position
before turning on the power.
- Unscrew the strainer cover and add water for the initial start-up or the first
start of the season. This important operation is intended to prime the
pump during start-up.
-Carry out the steps recommended during the winter preparation process if
you do not wish to use your spa during the cold season. Refer to the
WINTER PROCEDURES chapter for details.
WATER ACCESS VALVES
The water access valves must be in the OPEN position at all times when the
power is on.
There is an access valve for each of the inlets and outlets included in the
technical module.
They can only be put in the OFF position during a technical service operation
without emptying the spa pool (e.g., when cleaning the filter cartridge or
when repairing the technical module).
Pump
Strainer
cover
Water access valve
in OPEN position
Water access valve
in CLOSED position
Pump (motor)
Strainer
7

COMPONENTS Technical module –Electronic systems
ELECTONIC KEYPAD
The keypad is usually installed near the spa for easy access by users. It is
connected to the electronics housing though a cable that must be passed
through a rigid pipe (carlon type) and then buried in the trench that connects
the spa to the mechanical system.
Please refer to the Appendix on the detailed use of the electronic keypad.
Quick description
Keypad in.k450, membrane (9916-101335), 7 button: run, stop/pump 1/
Pump 2/pump 3/light/temperature and other commands +/-compatible with: in.xe
system.
ELECTRONIC CONTROL HOUSING
WITH INTEGRATED WATER HEATER
The electronics housing is the main control centre of your spa.
It directs the electricity needs of the various components and ensures that you
are able to adjust certain operations such as other accessories, if needed.
It is also inside this housing that the main power supply wire connected to the
house must be connected (see the Appendix to this effect and the chapter on the
electrical connection included in the spa installation manual). The electrical
connection terminals are accessible through the top left-hand opening of this
housing, and only a qualified and licensed electrician may have access.
The cables (with bits called keys) of the various components of the module as well
as the accessories are easily connected according to a colour code.
Please refer to the Appendix on the detailed use of the in.xe. electronic control
housing.
Quick description
Spa controller type in.xe Aeware with water heater 4.0 kW, works with in.k35 and in.k450
keypads.
WATER HEATER
The 4 kW water heater is integrated in the electronic housing and can be
controlled using the arrows on the electronic keypad.
Please refer to the Appendix on the detailed use of the electronic keypad.
Electronic Keypad In.k450
Electronic control housing
model In.xe
with integrated water heater
8

COMPONENTS Technical module –Filtration systems
CARTRIDGE FILTRATION
The filter and its cartridge play a very important role.
A clean cartridge contributes significantly to good water
quality, and to pump suction and proper propulsion as well
as the proper function of the housing and the electronic
keypad (no error codes appearing).
CARTRIDGE FILTRATION MAINTENANCE
Before starting to clean the filter cartridge, it is important
to:
- Turn off the electrical power of your spa (put the
circuit breaker in the OFF position).
-Close the technical module’s water access valves.
Then, by unscrewing the clamping ring (do not forget to lift the
lock) then removing the cover from the spa’s filtration system’s
cylindrical container, you will find a filter cartridge (also called
filter).
This must be removed from its receptacle once every two
weeks and then rinsed vigorously with a garden hose to
dislodge most of the dirt found there.
More thorough cleaning should be done once a month or two
months, depending on the use of the spa. To do this, you need
a cartridge cleaning solution that you will mix with water
according to the portioning instructions on the bottle. Soak for
a few hours then rinse thoroughly. It is always best to allow the
cartridge to dry completely before returning it to the filter
tank.
A second spare cartridge is recommended while cleaning, as
you should never leave the spa running without a filter
cartridge to avoid significant damage. It is also advisable to
replace the cartridge with a new one every year or every two
years.
Pay special attention to reinstalling the filtration system cover
and seals to prevent significant loss of water.
NEVER FORGET TO RAISE THE TECHNICAL MODULE WATER
ACCESS VALVES BEFORE TURNING ON THE ELECTRICAL
POWER.
Cartridge filter
Filtration cartridge cleaning
Filtration cartridge
Model: Pleatco PRB50
Model: Unicel C-4950
Clamping ring
Filter cover
Filter cover plug
Clamping ring lock
9

ACCESSORIES Optional
HARD COVER
The three-piece foldable hard cover is equipped with quick release
straps that must be attached to the outside edges of the spa using
screws or concrete glue. A small plastic piece is provided with this clip to
lock the clip.
The cover floats and protects your spa against temperature loss (or
increase) and the debris that can get into it.
It is mandatory to use it whenever the spa is not in use to avoid the
risk of drowning.
COVER MAINTENANCE
Clean the leatherette of the lid cover only with a damp cloth. It is
advisable to remove the Styrofoam from the cover from time to time to
allow them to dry. All Styrofoam absorbs water more or less quickly. It is
normal that it becomes heavy. It will then be a sign that they must be
taken out and dried or simply changed. Regularly open the vinyl cover
zippers and remove the Styrofoam to let it dry in the open air. Due to
the bacteria that adheres to it, replace the Styrofoam every two years
(maximum).
SOFT COVER
Some types of soft cover can be used to limit the evaporation of water.
It is important to keep in mind, however, that these should never
be considered safe or left unattended. If you choose to use only a
soft cover, you must fence off your Nature Spa in order to
completely block access.
LEAF NETS
Several types of nets can be used over
the spa to prevent leaves or other
twigs from entering the net size.
Leaf net
Deluxe
flexible
cover
Hard cover with straps
and latches
Solar cover
10

ACCESSORIES Optional
WATERFALL (standard and LED light)
The waterfall mechanism is essentially the same and can be easily
installed whether you have the standard model or the LED light
model, both available as options.
All you need to do is incorporate them into a riprap or a wall
close enough to the pool, following the recommendations in the
spa installation document to ensure that all the water in the
waterfall returns to the spa basin, thus avoiding premature water
loss from your spa.
The waterfall light system must have access on the sides to be able to
change the ribbon lighting which is inside the system.
To activate the waterfall, simply turn the valve usually red or blue
near the waterfall.
The waterfall mechanisms must NEVER be left operating in
the winter due to the risk of frost. Refer to the chapter on
closing procedures to find out how to proceed with the winter
preparation of the waterfall system.
NEVER leave the waterfall running in the winter or when the
cover is installed on the spa.
SEALING PLUGS (closing the spa)
Sealing plugs must be used if the spa is not used during the cold
period. They will be positioned in place of the jets during spa
closing procedures. Refer to the Closing Procedures section for
the spa closing steps.
SPA SWEEPER
There are various types of spa sweeper. Some use batteries while
others are simply manual. Each varies in price and efficiency. Ask
your dealer for the available ranges.
Waterfall valve
LED waterfall light
system
Sealing plugs
Spa sweeper
Standard waterfall
system
11’’
24’’
9’’
11

ACCESSORIES Optional
BLOWER
The blower is an air pump that can be added to your mechanical
system to increase the supply of air in the water jets, which increases
the propulsion effect.
This device does not require any special maintenance.
IN.TOUCH 2 (wireless communication system)
Select your spa features from your iPad, iPhone, iPod touch or
Android. With the in.touch app, you have relaxation at your
fingertips.
The in.touch app is available in two versions. The in.touch home
version allows you to control your spa using a local area network.
Meanwhile, in.touch world lets you use the Internet anywhere in the
world to control your spa.
NOTE: This tool is needed when there is a distance greater than 25’
between your spa and the technical module.
INFO: http://www.geckoalliance.com/ns/conso/Products/ProductInfo/31/in.touch
COVER
All covers become heavy because all styrofoams absorbs water.
When it happens, make sure to secure your tub accessibility and
take the styrofoams out of the cover skin and let them dry. Also,
because of styrofoams are quickly contamined by bacterias, we
suggest to buy new styrofoams at least twice per year and change
them into the skin of the cover.
IN.CLEAR (water treatment system)
This device is an effective sanitation system. Spas that use the In.Clear
system require very little maintenance, and the In.Clear can easily be
installed on new or existing spas.
INFO: http://www.geckoalliance.com/ns/conso/Products/ProductInfo/4/in.clear
In.Clear water treatment system
Blower
In.touch 2 communication system
12

WATER TREATMENT
Properly maintaining the water in your spa is the only way to provide you with
peace of mind and to prevent you from having health issues as well as altering
the various components of your spa.
The use of chlorine is not recommended for spa water treatment, first because it
is unstable in hot water and it is too corrosive to the spa components relative to
the amount of water that it contains.
It's the same for salt water treatment systems. The corrosion that these systems
cause is clearly visible, even after only a few weeks!
It is recommended that you analyze the water balance of your spa from time
to time. The pH and alkalinity must be balanced for the chemicals to
work properly.
Bromine and lithium are the preferred products for treating your
spa water.
LIQUID BROMINE (part 1) necessarily doubled by its BROMINE
ACTIVATOR (part 2) is a simple, effective and highly
recommended method.
Note
Since the spa skimmer does not provide access to a basket and its lid is
directly in contact with the top of the water thus limiting the use of a float,
bromine in pellet form is not an option.
LITHIUM is also a widely used product which offers excellent
efficiency.
For any of these products, follow the instructions for their use on their
respective labels. For the quantities to use, refer to the water capacity chart
for your particular spa included at the beginning of this guide.
Take care to store your chemicals in a dry and cool place.
Always keep chemicals in a safe place out of the reach of your home’s
children and pets.
Chemicals should never be mixed into each other. They must be added
separately and directly to the spa water within the recommended wait
times on the labels.
Be sure to store your chemicals in a cool and dry place.
Bromine
activator
Liquid
bromine
13

CLOSING PROCEDURES
Your spa can be used during the cold season provided you pay constant attention to it so as not to risk a
shutdown of the technical module. This would result in a risk of freezing the mechanical/electronic system
and possible significant damage to certain components.
If you choose to close the spa, you must first and foremost:
Thoroughly check that there is no groundwater beneath the spa basin, which will cause it to rise and
shift. For this step, insert a wooden stick inside the de-watering well located next to the spa basin. If
water is present, use a small submersible pump to evacuate it. You can then empty the spa.
Procedure for the spa basin
Be sure to turn off the power (close the circuit breaker).
After making sure there is no groundwater, empty the spa basin completely using a small submersible
pump.
In the spa basin, remove all jets, unscrew and remove the skimmer plate and grate from the drain(s).
Store them together in a safe place.
Unscrew the PVC connections located at the outlet of the technical module
housing connecting the water pipes to the spa basin. The connections are
usually identified by red and blue ribbons (1 or 2 connections for each colour
of ribbon depending on the number of pumps included in the system).
Equip yourself with a Shop-Vac dry/wet vacuum.
Vacuum then push air out from the pipe connections until all the water in the
plumbing is removed. Repeat this, but this time from the jet locations in the spa basin.
Draw water from the skimmer hole and also into the drain hole(s).
Antifreeze is recommended for jet openings, bottom drain and skimmer. About two gallons will be
needed.
Plug the jet holes with sealing plugs of the required size: #9 for the skimmer,
#11 for the jets and #9 or #10 for the bottom drain(s). Note that some older
models may require different sizes. Call for more information.
Do a rough cleaning of the spa surface. Remove all fallen leaves at the bottom
of the spa basin.
It is recommended to place a laminated cover over the entire inner surface of
the spa basin to the top edges. Secure the cover so that it stays in place all winter long.
Put water back into the spa basin approximately to the bottom of the skimmer plate. In winter, a layer of ice
will form on top of the water. To avoid damage to the basin walls, do not step on the ice block during the
winter.
Store the hard vinyl/Styrofoam cover in a dry place.
14
Pump connections

CLOSING PROCEDURES Technical Module
Cartridge
filter
Strainer basket(s)
15
For the technical module
Using the wet/dry sweeper, suck up the trapped water in the
technical module’s components.
Pump
Unscrew and remove the drain plug on the front of the pump
(turbine). Vacuum the remaining water. Store the plug dry.
Pump strainer
Unscrew and remove:
- the transparent cover
- the basket
- the drain plug beneath the strainer
Vacuum the remaining water. Close the cover of the strainer
and store the baskets and plugs dry.
Filter
Remove the cover of the filtration system and the cartridge.
Clean and store the cartridge in a dry place.
Vacuum the remaining water at the bottom of the filter
cylinder. Close the cover of the filter cylinder.
Vacuum the remaining water through the pipe connections at the
pump inlet and the filter outlet.
Tighten all pipe connections to prevent rodents from getting in
during the winter.
Close the technical module cover and place a tarpaulin over it to
protect it from water.
Strainer cover(s)