Carolina Gaswell User manual

OWNERS MANUAL

Model: __________________________________________________________
Serial Number: ___________________________________________________
Date Installed: ____________________________________________________
Dealer: __________________________________________________________
Address: _________________________________________________________
Telephone: _______________________________________________________
Note: The serial number/identification label is located within the equipment
compartment and skimmer housing.
CAROLINA SPAS™
MODEL AVG. FILL AVG. FILL WEIGHT AVG. DRY WEIGHT
150 gal. / 568 L
150 gal. / 568 L
240 gal. / 909 L
350 gal. / 1325 L
375 gal. / 1420 L
350 gal. / 1325 L
525 gal. / 1987 L
1638 lbs. / 743 kg.
1500 lbs. / 680 kg.
2504 lbs. / 1136 kg.
3662 lbs. / 1661 kg.
3880 lbs. / 1760 kg.
3662 lbs. / 1661 kg.
5302 lbs. / 2405 kg.
385 lbs. / 175 kg.
300 lbs. / 136 kg.
500 lbs. / 227 kg.
700 lbs. / 318 kg.
750 lbs. / 340 kg.
700 lbs. / 318 kg.
920 lbs. / 417 kg.
Thank you for your recent Carolina Spas™ purchase.
This owner's manual has been designed to acquaint you with your Carolina Spas™
operation and general maintenance. Keep this manual available for future reference.
If you have any questions regarding your Carolina Spas™ model, contact your local dealer.
Thank you.
Caswell
Holden
Savannah
Southport
Asheville
Charleston
Winston

CAROLINA SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
Avoiding Risk to Children .......................2
Avoiding Risk of Electrical Shock ................ 2-3
Avoiding Risk of Injury..........................3
Unclean Water ................................3
Avoiding Risk of Hyperthermia....................4
Avoiding Risk of Skin Burns ......................4
Important Do's and Don'ts.......................5
CAROLINA LINE SPA MODELS
Specifications .................................6
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
Location Preparation.............................7
Outdoor Installation ............................7
Indoor Installation ..............................7
ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS
AND PRECAUTIONS
220 V Permanently Connected SE & LE Models .......8
Electrical Installation Instructions ................8-9
Electrical Spa Wiring Connection Instructions .........9
110/220 Volt Convertible Models ..............10-11
INITIAL OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Start-up and Refill Procedures ....................12
SE Model Start-up Procedures ....................13
LE Model Start-up Procedures ....................14
EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE
Light Bulb Replacement .........................15
CONTROL PANEL FUNCTIONS-
SE MODELS
Main Control Panel ............................15
Main Control Panel Navigation ................... 15
Temperature Controls ........................15-16
Panel Functions................................16
Hold, Lock/Unlock, 24 Hr Clock,
Temp display, Flip Button
Operating the Hydro Pumps......................17
Jet Buttons ...................................17
Clean Up Cycle................................17
Light Control Button ...........................17
Optional Splash™ Lighting System ................ 17
SE Heating Modes .............................18
SE Filter Cycle Modes........................19-20
SE Reminder Messages ..........................21
SE Diagnostic Messages .........................25
CONTROL PANEL FUNCTIONS-
LE MODELS
Main Control Panel ............................22
Main Control Panel Buttons & Digital Display .......22
Temperature Control............................22
Operating the Hydro Pumps......................23
Jet Buttons ..................................23
Light Control Button ...........................23
Optional Splash™ Lighting System ............... 23
LE Heating Modes .............................24
LE Filter Cycle Modes...........................24
Summer Set Mode .............................24
Freeze Protection...............................24
Automated Purge Cycle..........................24
LE Diagnostic Messages .........................26
SPA CARE & WATER MAINTENANCE
General Information ........................27-28
Filter Cartridge Removal and Cleaning .............28
Care of Pillows .............................28-29
Care of Exterior ...............................29
Care of Spa Cover ..........................29-30
Winterizing Your Spa ........................30-31
Water Quality Maintenance ...................32-34
TROUBLESHOOTING
SE Operational Trouble Shooting Guide ............35
LE Operational Trouble Shooting Guide .........36-37
Control Panel Identification ......................37
SERVICE AND WARRANTY
INFORMATION
Service and Warranty Information .................38
Spa Care and Maintenance Record .............39-40
TABLE OF CONTENTS

2Carolina Spas™
OWNER'S MANUAL
CAROLINA SPAS™ SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Read And Follow All Instructions
AVOIDING THE RISK TO CHILDREN
RISK OF CHILD DROWNING
Extreme caution must be exercised to prevent unauthorized access by children. To avoid
accidents, ensure that children cannot use a spa unless they are supervised at all times.
• To reduce the risk of injury, do not permit children to use this spa unless they are
closely supervised at all times.
• To reduce the risk of injury, lower water temperatures and control the time of hot
water exposure for young children. Children are especially sensitive to hot water.
RISK OF ELECTROCUTION
• Connect only to a grounded source.
• Do not bury the power cord. A buried power cord may result in death, or serious
personal injury due to electrocution if direct burial-type cable is not used, or if
improper digging occurs.
• A ground terminal (pressure wire connector) is provided on the control box inside the
unit to permit connection of a minimum No. 8 AWG (8.4 mm2) solid copper bonding
conductor between this point and any metal equipment, metal water pipe, metal
enclosures of electrical equipment, or conduit within five feet (1.5m) of the unit as
needed to comply with local requirements.
• To reduce the risk of electrocution, replace all damaged cords immediately. Failure to
do so may result in death or serious personal injury due to electrocution.
• Do not connect any auxiliary components (for example, additional cable speakers,
headphones or other audio components) to the audio system unless approved by the
manufacturer of Carolina Spas™.
• Do not self-service audio components by opening or removing the cover as this
may expose you to dangerous voltage or other risk of injury. Only qualified service
personal should service your spa and it's components.
• Do not attach an external antenna to a spa audio system unless it is installed by a
licensed electrician in accordance with Article 810 of the National Electric Code,
ANSI/NFPA 70.
AVOIDING RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK
• Do not permit any electrical appliance, such as a light, telephone, radio or television
within 5 feet (1.5m) of a spa. These units DO NOT have an internal ground fault
circuit interrupter. The installation of a ground fault circuit interrupter MUST be
done by a qualified Electrician and must meet all local and national codes. Failure
to maintain a safe distance may result in death, or serious personal injury due to
electrocution, if the appliance should fall into the spa.
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Carolina Spas™
OWNER'S MANUAL
• Install at least 5 feet (1.5 m) from all metal surfaces. A spa may be installed within 5 feet
of a metal surface if each metal surface is permanently connected by a minimum No. 8
AWG (8.4 mm2) solid copper conductor attached to the wire ground connector on the
terminal box that is provided for this purpose if in accordance with National Electrical
Code ANSI/NMFPA70-1993.
• Install your spa in such a way that drainage is away from the electrical compartment
and from all electrical components.
AVOIDING RISK OF INJURY
• To reduce the risk of injury to persons, DO NOT remove suction fittings located at
the bottom foot well of the spa.
• The suction fittings in the spa are sized to match the specific water flow created by the
pump. Never replace a suction fitting with one rated less than the flow rate marked on
the original suction fitting. Never operate the spa if the suction fittings are broken or
missing.
• There is a danger of slipping and falling. Remember that wet surfaces can be very
slippery. Take care when entering or exiting the spa.
• People with infectious diseases should not use the spa.
• Keep any loose articles of clothing or hanging jewelry away from rotating jets or other
moving components.
• The use of drugs, alcohol, or medication before or during spa use may lead to
unconsciousness with the possibility of drowning.
• Persons using medications should consult a physician before using a spa; some medication
may cause a user to become drowsy, while other medication may affect heart rate, blood
pressure, and circulation.
• Persons taking medications which induce drowsiness, such as tranquilizers,
antihistamines or anticoagulants should not use the spa.
• Water temperature in excess of 104ºF (38ºC) may be injurious to your health.
• Pregnant women should consult a physician before using spa.
• 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 spa.
• Persons using or having Implanted Pacemakers or Defibrillators should consult their
physician prior to using a spa, as there are risks of electrocution.
UNCLEAN WATER
• Keep the water clean and sanitized with correct chemical care.
• Maintain water chemistry in accordance with chemical manufacturer’s instructions.
Important:
• Turn the Jet Pump on high speed after adding ANY spa water chemicals into the spa. It will
operate for a 15 minute cycle before shutting off automatically.
• Clean the filter cartridges monthly to remove debris and mineral buildup which may
affect the performance of the jets, limit the flow, or cause a heater-limit issue
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OWNER'S MANUAL
AVOIDING RISK OF HYPERTHERMIA
The causes, symptoms and effects of hyperthermia may be described as follows:
Hyperthermia occurs when the internal temperature of the body reaches a level several
degrees above the normal body temperature of 98.6ºF. The symptoms of hyperthermia
include an increase in the internal temperature of the body, dizziness, lethargy,
drowsiness and fainting.
The effects of hyperthermia include:
1. Failure to perceive heat.
2. Failure to recognize the need to exit the spa or hot tub.
3. Unawareness of impending hazard.
4. Fetal damage in pregnant women.
5. Physical inability to exit the spa or hot tub.
6. Unconsciousness resulting in drowning.
The use of alcohol, drugs, or medication can greatly increase the risk of fatal hyperthermia
in hot tubs and spas.
To Reduce The Risk of Injury:
• The water in the spa should never exceed 104°F (40ºC). Water temperatures between
100°F (37.7ºC) and 104°F (40ºC) are considered safe for a healthy adult.
• Lower water temperatures are recommended for extended use (exceeding ten minutes)
and for young children. Extended use can cause hyperthermia.
• Pregnant or possibly pregnant women should consult with their physician before
entering a spa. Failure to do so may result in permanent injury to your baby.
• Do not use spa immediately following strenuous exercise.
AVOIDING RISK OF SKIN BURNS
• To reduce the risk of injury, before entering a spa the user should measure the water
temperature with an accurate thermometer, since the tolerance of temperature-
regulating devices may vary by as much as ±5°F.
• Test the water with your hand before entering the spa to be sure it’s comfortable.
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Carolina Spas™
OWNER'S MANUAL
Do:
• Make sure you always lock the child resistant spa cover locks after using the spa for
your children’s safety. Every Carolina Spas™ model is equipped with a locking cover
that meets the ASTM F1346-91 Standard for Safety Covers.
• Test the water temperature with your hand before allowing children to enter the spa to
be sure that it’s comfortable. Children are especially sensitive to hot water.
• Remind children that wet surfaces can be very slippery. Make sure that children are
careful when entering or exiting the spa.
• Use and lock the vinyl cover when the spa is not in use, whether it is empty or full.
• Follow the Spa Care and Maintenance recommendations stated in this manual.
• Use only approved accessories and recommended spa chemicals and cleaners.
• Keep the spa cover locked when the spa is not in use.
• Check the equipment compartment monthly for any signs of tampering to the spa
equipment.
• Follow the maintenance instructions of the spa found in this owner’s manual.
• Be sure your spa is connected to the power supply correctly - use a licensed electrical
contractor.
• Test the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter(s) once a month.
• Place the spa on a level load bearing surface.
Don't:
• Allow children or pets to climb onto the spa cover.
• Allow children to have unsupervised access to the spa.
• Leave the Carolina Spas™ exposed to the sun without water or the cover in place.
Exposure to direct sunlight can cause solar distress of the shell material and will void
the warranty.
• Lift or drag the vinyl cover by using the cover lock straps; always lift or carry the cover
by using the handles.
• Attempt to open the electrical control box. There are no user serviceable parts inside.
Opening of the control box by the spa owner will void the warranty. If you have an
operational problem, carefully go through the steps outlined in the Troubleshooting
section. If you are not able to resolve the problem, contact your authorized Carolina
Spas™ dealer. Many problems can easily be diagnosed over the telephone by an
Authorized Service Technician.
• Block or sit on the filter compartment area.
• Allow excessive weight to be placed on the spa cover. Doing so could damage the spa
cover and void any warranty.
• Use the spa with the equipment compartment door removed.
• Place electrical appliances within 5 feet (1.5m) of the spa.
• Block the equipment compartment vents. This could cause damage to the spa
equipment and will void the warranty.
* SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS *
IMPORTANT DO'S & DON'TS
Important:
The following contains important spa information, and we strongly encourage you to read
and apply them.
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6Carolina Spas™
OWNER'S MANUAL
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Width Length Height Average Dry Average Seating
Fill Weight Fill Weight Locations
Caswell 57” 80" 29” 150 gal. 385 lbs. 1,638 lbs. 2
Winston 59" 82" 29" 150 gal. 300 lbs. 1500 lbs. 2
Holden 67” 80” 34” 240 gal. 500 lbs. 2,504 lbs. 3-4
Savannah 80” 84” 36” 350 gal. 700 lbs. 3,662 lbs. 4-5
Asheville 80” 84” 36” 350 gal. 700 lbs. 3,662 lbs. 4-5
Charleston 84" 84" 38" 375 gal. 750 lbs. 3,880 lbs. 5-6
Southport 89" 93" 40 " 525 gal. 920 lbs. 5,302 lbs. 6
Due to the risk of property damage and injury, the manufacturer of the Carolina
Spas™ strongly suggests a structural engineer or licensed contractor be consulted before
the spa is placed on an elevated deck.
Note: The “Average Full” weight of the spa includes only the spa and the water inside the spa.
SPA SPECIFICATIONS

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Carolina Spas™
OWNER'S MANUAL
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
Location Preparation
Your Carolina Spas™ model is totally self-contained and portable. You can install the spa outside
or inside. Preferable places are on a patio, deck or indoors. The spa should always be placed on a
level, load bearing surface in accordance with your local building code requirements. Other items
you need to consider are the following:
• Verify that the location chosen can support the weight of the spa, the water of the spa and
its occupants.
• Always check the surface of the site to see if it is level before filling the spa with water.
• Allow access to the equipment compartment for routine maintenance.
• When positioning the spa, be sure to allow for drainage away from the electrical compartment.
• Leave easy access to the GFCI breaker.
Carolina Spas™ is manufactured to be a portable unit. Any permanent installation
of this product is done at the risk of the owner. Permanent installation of this unit violates
warranty coverage.
Outdoor Installation
Always keep in mind what type of climate you live in. In a climate with cold, snowy winters you
may want to consider locating the spa close to the house for easy access. In climates where it is
normally warm or hot year-round, it would be recommended to place the spa in a shaded or cool
area. With deck installations it is recommended that a qualified building contractor or structural
engineer review the weight the deck can support. The spa specification sheet (on page 6) can
assist you with the weights and dimensions of your spa.
Indoor Installation
Special requirements are needed for indoor installation. Spas normally produce moisture. A
ventilation system needs to be considered. Your spa area should contain moisture resistant wall/
floor coverings and building materials to avoid damage from moisture over time. Proper drainage
of the spa water also needs to be considered.
Your Carolina Spas™ model is equipped with air vents to allow for circulation of air
throughout the equipment compartment. These vents are found on the face of the
equipment compartment panel and under the corners of the spa at the equipment
compartment end. Do not allow vents to be blocked as to prevent the circulation of air
in the equipment compartment.
Your Carolina Spas™ dealer can help you with information such as local
zoning regulations and building codes.
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8Carolina Spas™
OWNER'S MANUAL
ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS AND PRECAUTIONS
Your Carolina Spas™ models has gone through numerous tests to verify that all of the spa
functions operate. Beyond the tests, your Carolina Spas™ models has been designed to provide
the maximum safety against electrical shock. Read and follow the electrical installation
requirements and instructions completely. The next few pages will assist you in properly
connecting the electrical input. Follow the electrical instructions for your specific spa model.
Serious risks or injuries may occur if the spa is improperly wired.
220 Volt Permanently Connected Models:
• Caswell* • Winston* • Holden • Savannah •Charleston • Asheville • Southport
*This model is convertible to 110V—See page 10 for installation instructions.
Carolina Spas™ must be wired in accordance with all applicable local electrical codes.
Use NEC 250-122(table) and local codes for more information. All electrical work
should be done by an experienced, licensed Electrician. We recommend the use of
appropriate electrical conduit, fittings and wire for all circuits.
220 Volt installations require a 60Hz, single phase, three-wire electrical service plus
ground (Line 1, Line 2, Neutral and Ground) and must be connected using a minimum
supply conductor ampacity of 50 AMPs and a minimum circuit breaker size of 50 AMPs.
Note: Use copper wire only (3 wire with ground; 8 gauge under 50', 6 gauge over 50')
220 Volt model spas must be connected to a “dedicated” 220 volt 50 Amp grounded
circuit. The term “dedicated” means the electrical circuit is not being used for any other
electrical items (lights, appliances, etc.). If the spa is connected to a non-dedicated
circuit, overloading will occur and nuisance tripping of the GFCI breaker switch at the
house breaker panel will occur.
A ground lug connector is provided on the exterior surface of the spa pack (operations
center) inside the equipment compartment. This is to permit the connection of a
bonding wire between this point and any metal equipment, enclosures, pipe or conduit
within five feet (1.5m) of the spa. This bonding wire must be at least 8AWG solid
copper wire.
Due to the risk of equipment damage or fire, use only approved pressure-type wire
splicing lugs or connectors suitable for the size and type of wiring used.
Electrical Installation Instructions for 220 Volt Models
1. To connect the electrical service, first remove the screws from the equipment compartment
door. Carefully remove the access panel.
2. Locate the spa power pack. Loosen the screws on the front of the control box. Remove the
screws and the control box cover.
3. Input the electrical service from the GFCI breaker into the spa equipment compartment.
The GFCI breaker must be placed in sight of the spa, at a minimum distance
of five feet (1.5m) away.
As of January 1, 1996 the National Electric Code (NEC) requires GFCI
(Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) on all spa installations.
4. Connect the supply conduit to the spa power pack.
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