ControlOMatic TechniChlor User manual

ControlOMatic, Inc. 12659 Arbor Lane, Grass Valley, CA 95949
www.ControlOMatic.com [email protected] 530-205-4520
Manual Version: 2/1/14 Made in the USA
TECHNICHLOR
TM
OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS

INTRODUCTION
TechniChlor is a semi-automated, salt water chlorine generation system specically designed for portable spas up
to 1000 Gallons. TechniChlor generates chlorine from a small amount of ordinary salt (Sodium Chloride, NaCl)
dissolved in the spa water. The amount of salt added is very small in relation to the volume of the water in the spa.
It’s about 90% less concentration than ocean water and below the typical taste level of most humans.
The small addition of salt also benets users by providing a softening effect on the water, leaving hair and skin feel-
ing smoother and healthier than with traditional sanitizing products. Only 2.5 cups of salt per 100 gallons of water
is all it takes for TechniChlor to produce fresh, pure chlorine leaving your water clean and clear day after day.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
READ & FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
When installing and using this electrical equipment, basic safety precautions should always be followed,
including the following:
WARNING: To reduce the risk of injury, do not permit children to use this product unless they are closely
supervised by at all times.
WARNING: Use TechniChlor only according to these instructions. Any modication or misuse of this product
will void the warranty.
WARNING: Install TechniChlor in accordance with all national and local electrical, plumbing, safety, and other
applicable codes.
WARNING: Connect TechniChlor to a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupt) or GFI (ground fault interrupt)
protected VAC power source only.
WARNING: Protect the power supply and outlet from exposure to the elements including direct sun, rain, snow,
condensation, etc.
WARNING: DO NOT use with extension cord. Injury may result.
WARNING: DO NOT insert objects into, or tamper with TechniChlor’s body in any way. Inserting metal objects
into the body may cause damage and void the warranty.
WARNING: DO NOT operate TechniChlor if damaged in any way.
WARNING: DO NOT pull on the cord to disconnect the Power Supply from power source. Do not allow the
cord to rest on sharp edges or corners or to be walked upon. Do not drop, throw, or otherwise
rough handle TechniChlor.
WARNING: DO NOT handle the unit during chlorine production (visible bubbling). Slight discomfort may be felt
in cuts, sores, or sensitive skin areas due to chlorine concentration and the electrolysis process.
Stop chlorine production by either removing TechniChlor from the water by lifting the cord (do
not grasp the housing), or by unplugging the power supply from the power source.
WARNING: Unit must be disconnected from power source before performing any maintenance or
troubleshooting operations.
WARNING: Disconnect, remove, and store or TechniChlor indoors when spa has been winterized or drained.
CAUTION: Leave spa cover open at least 30 seconds to allow trapped gases to escape prior to use.
CAUTION: If unit is not working properly, or has been damaged in any way, contact technical support
immediately at 1-530-205-4520.
CAUTION: Measure water quality parameters and adjust if necessary prior to each spa use.
CAUTION: Make sure all spa electrical components and power cords have been thoroughly inspected by a
licensed electrician prior to using TechniChlor.

WATER PREPARATION & MAINTENANCE
To ensure proper operation, the spa must be drained, rinsed, relled with fresh water, and balanced to the recom-
mended levels indicated in this section before installing the product. Use the test strips to measure water chem-
istry and verify that the water has been balanced properly. Replacing the lter is recommended but not required
unless the spa was previously sanitized with a hydrogen peroxide system. The combination of hydrogen peroxide
and chlorine may cause gum-like build up, water discoloration, and skin irritation.
It is important to properly maintain your spa for the health and safety of its users. Spas are unique in both size and
usage patterns. TechniChlor will signicantly reduce the amount of spa maintenance required, but chemical check-
ups including chlorine levels and PH are recommended before each use. Proper water maintenance will prolong
the life of TechniChlor and the spa. The following table describes generally accepted optimum water chemistry for
portable spas.
PARAMETER RECOMMENDED LEVEL
Free Chlorine 3.0 to 5.0 PPM
PH Balance 7.2 to 7.6
Total Alkalinity 80 to 120 PPM
Calcium Hardness 300 to 400 PPM
It is recommended that chlorine and PH levels are checked before each use, or at least once per week when not in
use. Alkalinity, Calcium Hardness, and Salt Concentration should be checked at least once per month. It is recom-
mended that the spa is manually shocked after high usage (example: after a party with multiple users), or biweekly
if used frequently. Always remember to leave the spa circulating for several hours before retesting. Phosphates in
the spa water will increase the demand for chlorine and will reduce the life expectancy of the generator. Remove
Phosphates upon start up and each month there after. Phosphate Remover can be purchased at any local Pool &
Spa supply store.
WARNING: Consistent chlorine levels above 5.0 PPM or consistent salt concentration levels above 5,000
PPM may lead to corrosion of metal components in the spa.
WARNING: Consistently low Calcium Hardness levels below 150 PPM may lead to spa equipment damage
and failure. Make sure Calcium Hardness levels are within the recommended range above.

SALT REQUIREMENT
TechniChlor can generate both Chlorine or Bromine. It all depends on which sanitizer the user prefers. Use
Sodium Chloride Salt if you prefer Chlorine Generation and Sodium Bromide Salt if you prefer Bromine. Please
Note: Each salt requires a different level of salinity for TechniChlor to operate effectively. WARNING: SALT ONLY
NEEDS TO BE ADDED ONCE AND BROUGHT TO THE APPROPRIATE SALT LEVEL (BLUE LIGHTS) PER
SPA WATER CHANGE. DO NOT KEEP ADDING SALT (See Salt Level Indicator Section Below).
CHLORINE SALT - SODIUM CHLORIDE (NaCl): Raise Salt Level to 2,000 PPM (Parts Per Million). Ap-
proved salts include “pool salt” made for salt water chlorine generating systems, canning and pickling salt from
your local market, and some water softener salts that are 99% pure sodium chloride or better. Some high-end,
mineral enriched salts can be used but require higher quantities to achieve 2,000 PPM sodium chloride salt
level. These approved salts are generally available at pool & spa supply stores, home improvement centers and
On-Line stores in a variety of sizes. Never use rock salt or salts that have more than 1% “anti-caking agents”,
“yellow prussiate of soda”, or “sodium ferrocyanide”. These compounds may cause surface staining. Please use
chart below.
BROMINE SALT - SODIUM BROMIDE (NaBr): Raise Salt Level to 3,000 PPM (Parts Per Million). There
are several manufacturers of Sodium Bromide Salt to choose from. Please make sure the Sodium Bromide you
purchase is 99% pure or better. Ask your local pool and spa dealer for assistance. Please use chart below.
Chart is Based on 100 Gallons or 379 Liters of Spa Water
SALT TYPE POUNDS CUPS
99% Pure Sodium Chloride (NaCl) - Pool Salt, Water Softener &
Other Coarse Grain Salts 1.5 2.5
99% Pure Sodium Bromide (NaBr) Fine Grain Salt 2.5 4.0
The amount of salt to add and dissolve is dependent upon the size of the spa. Determine the volume of water in
gallons or liters by checking the spa owner’s manual or use any internet volume calculator.
99% Pure Sodium Chloride (NaCl) Coarse Grain Example For a 350 Gallon Spa: Divide 350 Gal by 100 Gallons
then multiply answer by 2.5 Cups. (350 / 100 = 3.5 x 2.5 = 8.75 Cups)
99% Pure Sodium Bromide (NaBr) Fine Grain Example For a 1,326 Liter Spa: Divide 1,326 Liters by 379 Liters
then multiply answer by 4.0 Cups. (1,326 / 379 = 3.5 x 4.0 = 14 Cups)
Simply pour the recommended amount of salt directly into the spa water to bring the concentration to the recom-
mended level. Turn the spa jets on to help dissolve the salt. Warmer water will aid in dissolving the salt faster. If
the water is cold it may take several hours for the salt to fully dissolve.
WARNING: Do not turn TechniChlor on until all the salt has fully dissolved.
SALT LEVEL INDICATOR
TechniChlor will indicate if the salt level is within the recommended range listed above. TechniChlor will indicate
proper salt levels by showing two (2) solid BLUE lights while producing chlorine. Note: If four (4) lights are shown
with the following colors, TechniChlor is engaged in “Boost Mode” (See “Boost Mode” section).
Two solid RED & GREEN lights: Salt Level Too High (Product Shuts Off To Protect Cell) - Dilute Salt
Two solid GREEN lights WHILE producing chlorine: Salt Level On The High Side
Two solid BLUE lights WHILE producing chlorine: Salt Level Within Normal Range
Two solid RED lights WHILE producing chlorine: Salt Level On The Low Side
STANDBY MODE: Quick GREEN ash every 10 seconds when NOT producing chlorine (Very Normal)
IMPORTANT: It is important to occasionally check that the lights are indicating proper salt level. Always
use Salt Test Strips to check the salt level and adjust the water according to the Test Strips. If Test Strips
Show Too High: remove some water from the spa and replace with fresh water. Re-test and adjust as nec-
essary. If Test Strips Show Too Low: Add salt. Re-Test and adjust as necessary.

PRODUCT INSTALLATION
1. Remove the tie straps from the product cable, unwind the cable, attach the cord’s water tight black
connector to the black power supply connector, and hand tighten the nut. IMPORTANT: Do not reverse
polarity of the cords connector to the power supply connector - doing so will void the product
warranty. See the diagram below and make sure the ridge and grove at the bottom of each
connector line up appropriately before securing the connection.
2. Plug TechniChlor into a 110 VAC wall outlet. WARNING: A 110 VAC GFCI or GFI protected outlet is
required. A weather protective cover is required to house the power supply at the power source
connection. Weather protective covers are available at most local hardware stores. If an outlet
needs to be installed, have a licensed electrician add a 110 VAC GFI protected outlet. Do not use an
extension cord.

PRODUCT INSTALLATION CONTINUED
3. Make sure spa water is at the appropriate salt level (See “Salt Requirement” Section). Allow TechniChlor
to drape over the side of the spa, immerse in the water and vertically rest at the deepest point in
the spa. Plug Technichlor into the GFCI protected outlet, and after a brief pause, the unit will begin chlorine
production. NOTE: If there are Solid RED and Solid GREEN Lights with no chlorine production at
start up, simply wait for the temperature of the unit to catch up to the spa water temperature
and the unit will automatically resume normal chlorine production.
4. Attach the supplied cable clip to the outside of the spa by rst inserting the cable into the cable clip. Then
use the wood screw to fasten the cable clip to any point near the spa’s edge.

PRODUCT OPERATION
TechniChlor operates using Tap Technology. Tap Technology simply requires you to hold TechniChlor rmly at the
end opposite of the cable and Gently Tap the Soft Rubber Cap of the unit against a rm surface such as your
hand or side of the spa (See TAP Diagram Below). Start your tap approximately 1/2” (Half Inch) away from the tap
surface. Always tap on either side of the green circuit board as indicated in the diagram below so the lights are fac-
ing you.
1. POWER OFF: If plugged into power source, simply pull TechniChlor out of the water to temporarily turn the
power off. To turn power off longer term, simply unplug or shut down main power (breaker) at the power
source.
2. POWER ON: Connect TechniChlor to power source and immediately submerge TechniChlor in the spa wa-
ter. TechniChlor is pre-set by the manufacturer to power level 3. TechniChlor will automatically begin chlorine
production on power level 3.
3. STANDBY MODE: TechniChlor produces chlorine in 3-Hour increments and will be on for a period of that time
and off for the rest of that time. The on and off times vary for each power level. Standby Mode is indicated by
a quick GREEN ash every 10 seconds when it is not producing chlorine and is in an off portion of a 3-Hour
production cycle. This is very normal operation.
4. RESET & REVIEW CURRENT POWER LEVEL: Like a double mouse click on a computer, TechniChlor
requires two quick consecutive taps (DOUBLE TAP) to observe the current power level by counting the BLUE
ashes following the double tap. 5 BLUE ashes means it is currently set to power level 5, 7 BLUE ashes =
power level 7, etc. A double tap can be done at any time, while in production mode or in standby (off) mode, to
review the current power level and to reset TechniChlor back to the beginning of current power level setting.
5. CHANGING POWER LEVELS: There are two ways to enter the Power Change Mode (10 GREEN Flashes).
Once in the Power Change Mode, simply submerge Technichlor on the 7th Green ash, for example, and Tech-
niChlor will then change to Power Level 7. Following a brief pause, it will then conrm the new power level by
counting the BLUE ashes.
• TAP & DIP - Four Consecutive Taps: Simply pull TechniChlor out of the water to turn the units power
off (lights will shut off). Give the unit Four (4) Quick Consecutive Taps. Following the Four (4) consecu-
tive taps TechniChlor will start to ash GREEN 10 times indicating that it is in Power Change Mode.
While ashing GREEN, simply submerge TechniChlor on the GREEN ash count of your choice to
change the power. It will then conrm the new power level by counting the BLUE ashes.
• POWER & DIP - Cycle Main Power Off & On: Simply pull TechniChlor out of the water and unplug
TechniChlor form the power source or shut off power at the main breaker. Wait 10 seconds and turn
the power back on. Once the power is cycled back on TechniChlor will start to ash GREEN 10 times
indicating that it is in Power Change Mode. While ashing GREEN, simply submerge TechniChlor on
the GREEN ash count of your choice to change the power. It will then conrm the new power level by
counting the BLUE ashes.
EXAMPLE (Change from power level 5 to power level 7): Pull the unit out of the water and give TechniChlor
4 consecutive taps or cycle power at the power source off then on. It will start to ash GREEN 10 times. Simply
submerge TechniChlor on the 7th GREEN ash to set to the new power level. It will then be followed by 7 BLUE
ashes conrming the power is now set to power level 7.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you feel you may have started the process incorrectly or mis-tapped, don’t worry,
just stop and wait about a minute allowing the unit to shut down (no lights), or shut main power off, then
simply start the process over.
Tap Here
Hold Unit Here
Or Tap Here
Firm Surface
1/2 Inch
To Tap

TEMPERATURE COMPENSATION
TechniChlor is designed with automatic temperature compensation. Should the spa temperature be reduced while
on vacation, TechniChlor will automatically reduce chlorine output. Cold water requires less chlorine than warm
water. When water temperature raises back to normal, TechniChlor will automatically resume normal chlorine out-
put. Check chlorine levels before and after vacation to make sure proper chlorine levels are maintained.
BOOST MODE
Boost Mode is designed to replenish chlorine that was just used during the last spa use. Boost Mode will continu-
ously generate chlorine for a period of time that is 4 times the normal set power level. After the Boost Mode cycle
is complete, Technichlor will revert to the normal power level cycle.
1. BOOST MODE ON (With 30 Minute Delay): To activate Boost Mode, simply give TechniChlor One (1) Single
Tap. Immediately following the single tap, TechniChlor will quickly ash RED Four (4) times indicating that it
will automatically resume production in Boost Mode after a 30 minute delay (no lights). Re-submerge and after
a 30 minute delay, TechniChlor will indicate that its in a Boost Mode Cycle when all four (4) lights are BLUE
while its producing chlorine. This also indicates that the water is at the appropriate salt level. Note: If all four
(4) lights are RED or GREEN, TechniChlor is still Boost Mode it just means the salt level needs adjust-
ment (See “Salt Level Indicator” Section).
2. BOOST MODE ON (With No Delay): Simply give Technichlor Three Consecutive Taps. Technichlor will dis-
play the current power level with BLUE ashes and will begin production in Boost Mode with (4) BLUE Lights.
3. BOOST MODE OFF: Simply give Technichlor a DOUBLE TAP and immediately re-submerge. Technichlor will
display the current power level setting and will begin production at the current power level.
SELECTING THE RIGHT POWER LEVEL
Selecting the right power level requires some testing and adjustment. There are many factors that affect the
sanitizing needs of a spa such as: Frequency of spa use, number of people, if there is an Ozone Generator, spa
temperature, last drain and rell, etc. However, after the testing and adjustment period, TechniChlor will take care
of your sanitation needs day after day. As a starting point, please program TechniChlor and set the power level to
the general recommendations shown in the chart below.
Power
Level
TechniChlor
Spa (Gallons)
1 to 3 Less than 200
4 200 to 300
5 300 to 400
6 400 to 500
7 to 10 500 and above
Test the Chlorine Level with test strips after 1 to 2 days. When testing, the best readings are always done about an
hour after restarting TechniChlor with a double tap to initiate chlorine production at the beginning of a power level
cycle. If the chlorine level is LOW, increase the power level by one level. If the chlorine level is HIGH decrease
the power level by one level. Wait a day or so after this initial adjustment, re-test and repeat as necessary until a
consistent chlorine residual has been achieved. If the chlorine level is VERY high or VERY low, adjust by 2 levels,
as needed.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If the chlorine level is zero 24 hours after installation, the initial chlorine demand on
the spa may be above what TechniChlor can produce to break away from zero. In this case, manually add
chlorine or shock (according to the product label) to assist in the initial set-up.
If spa usage drops (vacation, winter, etc), it is important to re-set the power level down several levels. If usage
signicantly increases, (return from vacation, etc) it is important to adjust the power level up accordingly. Always
retest and adjust the power level as needed.

TROUBLE SHOOTING
It is always a good idea to revisit the user manual to make sure installation or maintenance steps were not over-
looked before referring to the trouble shooting section.
Problem Possible Causes Corrective Action
Solid Red Lights Salt level very low Add salt - use test strips
Plates need cleaning Soak the units plates in vinegar for 10 to 30 minutes
Plates damaged Unit needs to be replaced
Consistently Low
Chlorine
Power level too low Increase the power level
Plates need cleaning Soak the unit in Vinegar for 30 minutes
Low salt level Adjust the salt level as necessary - use test strips
Large bather load Additional chlorine or shock may be needed
Just doesn’t keep up Remove organic material, such as leaves, etc.
Make sure the unit is at the lowest point in the spa
Clean the lter
Remove Phosphates
Shock the water
Consistently High
Chlorine
Power level too high Lower the power level
Plates Are Dirty
With White Or
Scale Build Up
Hard water, high calcium
and minerals in water.
Unplug power supply and reconnect to manually reverse
polarity. If still dirty, soak the unit in vinegar for 30 minutes.
Also reduce calcium level in water.
QUICK REFERENCE - LIGHT COLORS
When TechniChlor is producing chlorine;
2 Solid RED & GREEN Lights: Salt Level Too High (Product Shuts Off To Protect Cell) Dilute Salt
2 Solid GREEN Lights: Normal Power Level Production - Salt level is on high side of range
2 Solid BLUE Lights: Normal Power Level Production - Salt level is with in normal range
2 Solid RED Lights: Normal Power Level Production - Salt level is on low side of range
4 Solid GREEN Lights: BOOST MODE Production - Salt level is on high side of range
4 Solid BLUE Lights: BOOST MODE Production - Salt level is within normal range
4 Solid RED Lights: BOOST MODE Production - Salt level is on low side of range
When TechniChlor is not producing chlorine;
2 GREEN Lights Quick Flash Every 10 Seconds: Indicating Normal Standby Mode (off time)
After One (1) Single Tap (Boost Mode With 30 Minute Delay);
4 RED Lights Quickly Flash 4 Times: Indicating Boost Mode Production after 30 minute delay (no lights)
After Two (2) Consecutive Taps;
2 BLUE Lights Flashing: Indicating current power level by counting the blue ashes
After Three (3) Consecutive Taps (Boost Mode With No Delay);
2 BLUE Lights Flashing Then 4 Solid BLUE Lights: Indicates current power level by counting the blue
ashes & turns on Boost Mode (no delay).
After Four (4) Consecutive Taps;
4 GREEN Lights Flash 10 Times: Indicating the unit is in Power Change Mode.

LIMITED WARRANTY
Models: This warranty applies to TechniChlor models referenced as “System”.
ControlOMatic, Inc. Warrants the system to be free of all defects in material and workmanship for one (1) year from
the original purchase date. The system includes the power supply unit, cable, electronics, and electrolytic genera-
tor for residential use only. The product must be installed properly and used in accordance with this manual and all
applicable local codes and regulations. This warranty is not transferable.
In no event shall ControlOMatic, Inc. be liable for consequential damages for breach of this warranty. Some states
do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion
may not apply. The warranty does not cover any loss or damage to the product due to improper installation, product
abuse, misuse, negligence, or improper maintenance of the system, pool or spa. The warranty does not cover any
loss or damage to the spa, spa components, users, or anything outside the system due to system failure. Purchas-
er assume all responsibility for using the system.
This warranty does not apply to any costs, repairs, services, damages, claims or losses for all of the following: Ser-
vice calls to install, re-install or correct the installation of the product, or to explain the usage of the system to the
buyer, repairs necessitated by use other than normal home use, damage resulting from misuse, unintended use,
unforeseen use, non pool or spa use, abuse, accidents, alterations, improper installation, or corrective work neces-
sitated by repairs made by anyone other than an authorized service technician.
THE FOREGOING WARRANTIES ARE CONTINGENT ON THE PROPER USE OF THE SYSTEM IN ACCOR-
DANCE WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS AND SHALL NOT APPLY TO ANY SYSTEM
THAT HAS BEEN REPAIRED OR MODIFIED BY PERSONS OTHER THAN THE MANUFACTURER.
THE EXPRESS WARRANTIES SET FORTH IN THIS AGREEMENT ARE IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRAN-
TIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. MANUFACTURER HEREBY SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ANY OTHER REPRE-
SENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION ANY WARRAN-
TIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
IN NO EVENT WILL MANUFACTURER’S LIABILITY FOR ANY CLAIM, WHETHER IN CONTRACT, TORT OR
UNDER ANY OTHER THEORY OF LIABILITY, EXCEED THE AMOUNT NECESSARY TO REPAIR OR RE-
PLACE THE COVERED SYSTEM.
Damage to the system from improper water maintenance is not covered in this warranty.
Should any problem develop during the warranty period, go to: www.controlomatic.com to obtain the proper techni-
cal support phone number. You will need the serial number visible in the clear part of the system body. You may be
required to return the defective component, and if necessary, the component will either be repaired or replaced.

TECHNICHLOR
TM
Go To
www.ControlOMatic.com
For More Product
Information

PRODUCT REGISTRATION
Please ll out the information below and send to ControlOMatic to properly register your prod-
uct. Or register your product on line at www.ControlOMatic.com.
First Name:
Last Name:
Address:
City: State / Province: Postal Code:
Phone: E-Mail:
Please copy this section and forward a copy to
ControlOMatic, Inc.
12659 Arbor Lane
Grass Valley, CA 95949
Or Register At www.ControlOMatic.com
Product Model: Serial Number: