HydroQuip HEATMAX Series User manual

Operation / Installation Instructions
HEATMAX
ELECTRIC POOL AND SPA HEATER
MODELS:
HEATMAX RHS-5.5KW 5500W HEATER
HEATMAX RHS-11.0KW 11,000W HEATER

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Remote Heater System has been designed to be installed safely either indoors or outdoors, remote
installation. It’s weather-tight construction helps to guard against the elements and allows for a variety of mounting
possibilities.
Your Hydro-Quip
Remote Heater System is totally self contained to insure trouble free installation and operation. As with
all electrical devices, certain safety precautions should be taken during installation and operation.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
READ AND FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS
DANGER – To reduce the risk of injury, do not permit children to
use this product unless they are closely supervised at all times.
WARNING – RISK OF CHILD DROWNING. Extreme caution must be
exercised to prevent unauthorized access by children. To avoid
accidents, ensure that children cannot use a spa or hot tub unless
they are supervised at all times.
DANGER – To reduce the risk of injury to persons, do not remove
suction fittings.
Spa location must accommodate sufficient drainage of water around
the base of the structure. as well as the power source compartment.
Prolonged immersion in water that is warmer than normal body
temperature can result in a dangerous condition known as
HYPERTHERMIA. The causes, symptoms, and effects of hyperthermia
may be described as follows: Hypert hermia occurs when the internal
temperature of the body reaches a level several degrees above the
normal body temperature of 98.6°F. The symptoms of hyperthermia
include dizziness, fainting, drowsine ss, lethargy, and an increase in
the internal temperature of the body. The effects of hyperthermia
include (1) unawareness of impendin g hazard, (2) failure to perceive
heat, (3) failure to recognize the need to exit sp a, (4) physical
inability to exit spa, (5) fetal damage in pregnant women, (6)
unconsciousness resulting in danger of drowning. WARNING – The
use of alcohol, drugs or medication can greatly increase the risk of
fatal hyperthermia in hot tubs and spas.
DANGER – RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK. Install at least 5 feet
(1.5m) from all metal surfaces. (A spa may be installed within 5 feet
of metal surfaces if each metal su rface is permanently connected by
a solid copper conductor attached to the wire connector on the
terminal box that is provided for this purpose. Refer to NEC and local
codes in effect at the time of installation.)
A pressure wire connector is provided on the RHS control box to
permit connection of a solid copper bonding conductor between this
point and any equipment, metal encl osures of electrical equipment,
metal water pipe, or conduit within 5 feet (1.5m) of the unit as
needed to comply with local requirements.
•Bond accessible metal to the dedicated connector on the equipment
grounding bus, bond the equipment ground bus to the local common
bonding grid as part of the installation in the form of (1) a reinforced
concrete slab for support, (2) a ground plate provided beneath the
hot tub or spa, or (3) a permanent ground connection that is
acceptable to the local inspection authority.
DANGER – 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 or hot tub.
To reduce the risk of injury:
a) The water in a spa or hot tub should never exceed 104°F (40 °C).
Water temperatures between 100 ° (38°C) and 104 °F (40 °C) are
considered safe for a healthy adult. Lower water temperatures are
recommended for extended use (exceeding 10 – 15 minutes) and for
young children.
b) Excessive water temperatures have a high potential for causing fetal
damage during the early months of pregnancy, pregnant or possibly
pregnant women should limit spa or hot tub water temperatures to
100°F (38°C).
c) Before entering the spa or hot tub, the user should measure the
water temperature with an accurate thermometer.
d) The use of alcohol, drugs, or medication before or during spa or hot
tub use may lead to unconsciousness with the possibility of
drowning.
e) Persons suffering from obesity or with a medical history of heart
disease, low or high blood pressure, circulatory system problems, or
diabetes should consult a physician before using a spa or hot tub.
f) Persons using medication should consult a physician before using a
spa or hot tub since some medication may affect heart rate, blood
pressure, and circulation.
For Permanently Installed Units
A terminal marked “G” or “ground” is provided in the wiring box
located inside the equipment compartment. To reduce the risk of
Electric shock, connect the terminal or connector to the grounding
terminal of your electrical service or supply panel with a continuous
green insulated copper wire in accordance with National Electric
Code Table 250-95 and any other local codes in effect at the time of
the installation.
For Permanently Installed Units not Provided with
an Internal Disconnecting Method
The electrical supply for this product must include a suitably rated
Switch or circuit breaker to open all ungrounded supply conductors to
comply with Section 422-20 of the National Electric Code, ANSI/NFPA
70 –1987. The disconnecting means must be readily accessible to the
tub occupant but installed at least 5 feet (1.5m) from the tub water.
The electrical supply for permanently installed equipment must also
include a suitably rated Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) to
comply with article 680-42 of the National Electric Code, ANSI/NFPA
70.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
INTRODUCTION
Your Hydro-Quip
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IMPORTANT INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
ŸWhen plumbing/installing this heater DO NOT install a shut-off valve
on the discharge/pressure side of the system. A check valve that does not
have a shut off feature may be used to aid in servicing if desired.
ŸThe user MUST always disconnect the power supply to the heater
when draining the pool, spa or heater.
ŸThis heater must never be operated with the pump turned off.

CONTROL BOX
The control box contains all the electrical components
necessary to operate your heater. It also contains the field-
wiring compartment.
THERMOSTAT
Setting the thermostat, located on the left side panel,
controls the temperature of the spa water. When the
equipment is operating, the thermostat will control the
heater. Initially, adjust the knob to the center heat range.
Do not expect to feel hot water coming out of the jets.
The length of time it takes the water to reach the desired
temperature depends on several factors: water
temperature at start up, ambient air temperature, spa
volume, relative humidity, insulation qualities of the spa
cover, and consistency of electrical power applied. An
insulated cover should be kept on the spa when it is not in
use. Prolonged us of an air blower or hydrotherapy jets will
have a significant cooling effect on the spa water.
The graduations on the scale around the thermostat are
intended for reference points only. They do not reflect the
actual temperature of the water. Make small adjustments
until the desired temperature is achieved. Allow several
hours between adjustments for the temperature to
stabilize. Use an accurate thermometer to monitor the
water temperature.
HIGH LIMIT
The purpose of this switch is to shut off the heater if the
water temperature reaches 117°F. After the water has
cooled sufficiently, push to reset. Note: if the switch trips
repeatedly, do not use the spa until the problem has been
corrected by a qualified service technician.
HEATER “ON” LIGHT
This indicator light activates when the heater is on. It is
also used as a diagnostic tool for service technicians.
HEATER ASSEMBLY
The heater assembly contains the heating element(s) and
is equipped with a pressure switch.
PRESSURE SWITCH
This is a safety device that uses the weight of the water to
actuate a switch. If there is no water flow the heater will
not turn on.
It is important that the pressure switch is
tested for calibration to assure it is operating properly.
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EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION

All electrical connections to the Remote Heater System must be accomplished by a qualified and licensed electrician in
accordance with the National Electric Code and any local codes in effect at the time of the installation. All electrical
connections must be made in accordance with the wiring information contained in this manual or the wiring diagram
included on the inside of the access panel.
The Remote Heater System must be configured to operate at 208-240 volts. Refer to the data label located on the
control box to determine voltage requirements. Connection must be made using copper conductors only. Field provided
conductors and circuit breakers must be sized to accommodate the total amperage load of the equipment. For Power
conductor size, refer to the National Electric Code Table 310-16. For Ground conductor size, refer to the National Electric
Code Table 250-95.
Note: When determining conductor size, the total length of run must be calculated and sized per the National Electric
Code.
WARNING – Improper electrical connection or conductor sizing will create the potential for electrical hazard, and may
void the warranty.
CAUTION – Use only approved pressure-type wire splicing or connectors suitable for the size and type of wiring used.
240 VOLT INSTALLATION
1) Provide the proper voltage and circuit from the service
panel as detailed above.
2) Open the access panel on the RHS control box to
expose wire connections.
3) Using copper conductors only, connect input wiring as
shown. A two wire electrical connection plus ground is
required (Line 1, Line 2 and Ground).
4) Close the access panel when connections are complete
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ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION
SYSTEM START UP
1) Turn the thermostat counter clockwise, to the off position.
2) Fill the spa or hot tub with fresh tap water to the level recommended by the spa manufacturer.
CAUTION: The Remote Heater System must never be operated without water or serious damage to the heater and/or
Pump may result which will void the warranty.
3) Check all plumbing for leaks.
4) With the thermostat in the off position, apply power to the system.
IMPORTANT: It is important that the pump is operated on high speed for several minutes to assure that all of the air
has been removed from the system before the heater is turned on. Only after full water flow has been achieved should
the thermostat be turned up.

The equipment should be installed so that there is safe access for servicing and routine maintenance.
After filling the spa or hot tub each time it is important that the pump be operated on high speed for several minutes to
insure that all the air has been removed from the system before the heater is turned on. Trapped air can cause the
heater to dry fire, which is not covered under the warranty.
Factory Installed Pressure Switch:
Your Remote Heater System is equipped with a pressure switch. The function of the pressure switch is to shut the heater
off if the pump is turned off or if there is restricted water flow (dirty filter, obstruction in the spa plumbing etc.).
Installation Below Spa Surface:
If the heater is installed more than two (2) feet below the spa water level, adjustment of the pressure switch may be
necessary. The following procedures and illustrations outline the adjustment of the pressure switch.
Follow the system start up procedures (leaving the thermostat in the OFF position). CAUTION: Remove all power to the
unit prior to completing the steps below:
WATER LEVEL
INSTALLATION
LEVEL (FT)
WATER WEIGHT (LB)
1) Shut off power to the HEATMAX System & Pump prior to
attempting any adjustments to the pressure switch.
2) Remove wires from pressure switch terminals.
3) Place an Ohm meter across the pressure switch
Terminals to verify an OPEN circuit. If closed proceed to step #4.
4) Rotate the pressure switch adjustment screw (slot or torx)
counter-clockwise
until the Ohm meter indicates a CLOSED
circuit.
5) Finally, rotate the pressure switch adjustment screw
clockwise until the Ohm meter indicates an OPEN
circuit again.
6) Apply power to the unit at this time and operate the
spa or hot tub as normal.
Note: If the pressure switch CANNOT be adjusted, a flow
switch will need to be installed in the spa or hot tub
plumbing and the wiring from the pressure switch extended
and connected to the flow switch.
1lb. Adjustment
Screw
Calibration
Scale
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INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
OR

If your Remote Heater System is to be shut off and exposed to freezing temperatures, the heater must be drained.
Water, when frozen, will expand, damaging the heater housing. Disconnect all power to the unit prior to drainage. Follow
the filling instructions prior to applying power.
TROUBLE SHOOTING
Heater will not operate:
1) Check the main circuit breaker panel. If the circuit breaker has tripped, reset the breaker. If the circuit breaker trips
repeatedly, contact a qualified technician to correct the problem.
2) Push the high-limit reset button.
3) Verify that the filter is clean and not causing restricted water flow.
The spa water will not maintain the desired temperature:
1) A spa cover is required to maintain water temperature.
2) Turn the thermostat to a higher setting.
FREEZING TEMPERATURES
To all original purchasers, HYDROQUIP warrants its products to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a
period of two year from the date of purchase.
HYDROQUIP will repair or replace the part, which in our opinion, is defective.
This warranty excludes damage as a result of: normal wear, freezing, low voltage, chemical abuse, accident, negligence,
alteration, improper installation, use or care.
This warranty does not extend to and is void for any products that are used in non-residential applications.
To obtain warranty service, return defective products within the warranty period to HYDROQUIP.
Purchaser is responsible for removal or reinstallation labor, freight charges, or any other such costs incurred in obtaining
warranty service.
HYDROQUIP assumes no responsibility for incidental or consequential damages. Some states do not allow the
exclusion of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations and exclusions may not apply to you. This
warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights, which vary from state to state.
THE SPA DEALER MAY PROVIDE A DIFFERENT WARRANTY,
CONTACT YOUR SPA DEALER FOR DETAILS
WARRANTY INFORMATION

85-0116 Rev 5 02/18