Softub 149 User manual

Contents
Inhalt
Sommaire
Contenido
Sommario
Содержание
— OWNERS ANUAL
ENGLISH
— BEDIENUNGSANLEITUNG
GER AN
— ANUEL DE L’UTILISATEUR
FRENCH
— ANUAL DEL PROPIETARIO
SPANISH
— ANUALE DEL PROPRIETARIO
ITALIAN
— РУКОВОДСТВО ПО ЭКСПЛУАТАЦИИ
RUSSIAN

CAUTION
When installing your Softub spa indoors, use care to install in areas that can
withstand exposure to water. See pages 6, 8, 9 & 10.
WARNING
indings in the “Journal of the American Medical Association” show that women
who are planning a pregnancy or are experiencing the first months of pregnancy
should avoid hot tubs and saunas. Please consult your physician before using
the Softub Spa if you are pregnant or think you may be.
1

Escape...Relax...and Step Into SoftnessTM, as you have now become a proud
owner of one of the world’s most energy efficient, and comfortable, portable hot
tubs. Your Softub’s patented design is the product of more than 20 years of
research and development. Our commitment to improve and enhance the
features and benefits of Softub will continue for years to come.
Your Softub has been designed for ease of use and operation. Please take a
moment to learn about how to care for it, as simple instructions are covered in
the latter pages of this manual. Proper installation and maintenance is important
to ensure many years of trouble free operation.
We are always interested in how your Softub has enhanced your life. We are
open to your comments or suggestions, and look forward to your
correspondence. Most importantly, take a moment to congratulate yourself. You
have just joined the ranks of over a hundred thousand Softub users who relax
and enjoy the health benefits of hydrotherapy.
Sincerely,
Softub, Inc.
2

Contents
Safety Instructions ………………………………………………....... 4
anufacturer’s Warnings …………………………………………... 6
Installation …………………………………………………………….. 8
Operation:
Temperature/Jets ……..……………………………………………….. 11
iltration/Ozone/Air Control ………...………………………………… 12
SoftSparkleTM Multi-Color LED Light/Combination Lock….……….... 13
Special Operating Modes ………...………………………………….... 14
aintenance:
Water Treatment ….……………………………………………………. 15
ilter Cleaning ……………………………………………………….…. 17
illing & Draining ………………………………………………………. 17
Inner Liner Material ...………………………………………………….. 17
Storing & Transporting ……………………………………………..... 17
Water Level …………………………………………………………….. 18
LeatherTex® .………………………………...……………………........ 18
Winterizing/Vacationing ………………………………………………... 18
Service …………………………………………………………………. 19
Trouble Shooting …………………………………………………….. 19
Specifications ………………………………………………………… 22
© 2011 Softub, Inc., Poway, CA
US Patent Numbers 4,858,254 • 4,843,659 • 4,981,543
5,585,025 • 5,092,951 • 5,133,818 • 5,283,915
5,392,473 • 6,066,253 • 6,444,129 • 6,875,961 • 6,800,205
Canada: 2,435,579 • 1,315,045 • Taiwan: 071790 • Hong Kong: 947 of 1995
rance/Germany/UK: 0396396 other US and International Patents Pending
Softub®, Hydromate® and Simple is Better® are registered trademarks of Softub, Inc.
SmartChipTM, LeatherTexTM, SoftSparkleTM, PolybondTM and
Step into SoftnessTM are trademarks of Softub, Inc.
3

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
I PORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
When installing and using this electrical equipment, basic safety precautions
should always be followed, including the following:
1. READ AND FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS
2. WARNING To reduce the risk of injury, do not permit children to use this
product unless they are closely supervised at all times. This appliance is not
intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory
or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have
been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a
person responsible for their safety.
3. A wire connector is provided under the motor unit to permit connection of a
minimum No. 8 AWG (8.4mm) solid copper conductor between this point and
any metal equipment, metal enclosures or electrical equipment, metal water
pipe, or conduit within 5 feet (1.5m) of the unit.
4. DANGER Risk of Injury
A. Connect to a grounded, grounding type power supply only.
B. A Ground ault Circuit Interrupter (G CI) type breaker is required on the
circuit supplying power to your tub.
C. Do not connect to an extension cord.
5. WARNING This appliance needs to be connected with a ground fault circuit
interrupter (G CI). The G CI must be tested before each use. With the unit
operating, push the test button. The unit should stop operating. Push the reset
button. The unit should now operate normally. If the interrupter fails to operate in
this manner, there is ground current flowing, indicating the possibility of an
electrical shock. Disconnect the unit until the fault has been identified, corrected,
and the unit operates fine after conducting the aforementioned tests.
6. DANGER Risk of Accidental Drowning.
Extreme caution must be exercised to prevent unauthorized access by children.
To avoid accidents, ensure that children cannot use the spa unless they are
supervised at all times.
7. DANGER Risk of Injury. The suction fittings in this spa are sized to match
the specific water flow created by the pump. Should the need arise to replace
the suction fittings or the pump, be sure that the flow rates are compatible.
Never operate the spa if the suction fittings are broken or missing. Never
replace a suction fitting with one rated less than the flow rate on the original
suction fitting.
4

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS (continued)
8. DANGER Risk of Electric 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 surface is
permanently connected by a minimum of No. 8 AWG (8.4mm) solid copper
conductor to the wire connector under the motor unit which is provided for this
purpose.
9. DANGER Risk of Electric Shock. Do not permit any electric appliance, such
as a light, telephone, radio, or television within 5 feet (1.5m) of a spa.
10.WARNING To reduce the risk of injury.
A. The water in a spa should not exceed 40º C (104º ). Water temperatures
between 38º C (100º ) and 40º C (104º ) are considered safe for a healthy
adult. Lower water temperatures are recommended for young children and
when spa use exceeds 10
minutes.
B. Since 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 water temperatures to 38º C (100º ) and check with
their doctor before use.
C. Before entering a spa the user should measure the water temperature since
the tolerance of water temperature regulating devices varies.
D. The use of alcohol, drugs or medication before or during spa 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.
F. Persons using medication should consult a physician before using a spa
since some medications may induce drowsiness while other medications may
affect heart rate, blood pressure, and circulation.
11. Replacement cord instructions: If the supply cord is damaged, it must be
replaced by the manufacturer, its service agent or similar qualified persons in
order to avoid a hazard.
12. SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
5

ANUFACTURER’S WARNING
In addition to the Safety Instructions found in the beginning of this manual,
these warnings have been assembled to help you enjoy the safe use of your
Softub spa.
Reading and understanding these warnings will allow you to reduce the risk of
causing inadvertent damage to your Softub spa, your surroundings, or yourself.
Read these warnings carefully.
1. Always disconnect your motor unit from the power supply before
draining and while filling.
2. The water level must be 2” above all jets. The jets can spray water out of
the tub if the water level becomes too low. This can cause the motor unit to
overheat and void the warranty.
3. Use only approved chemicals. Use of non-approved chemicals could void
the warranty. See pages 15 & 16.
4. aintain proper water pH (7.4-7.8). The vinyl liner can be damaged by an
improper pH balance.
5. WARNING: USING ANY TYPE OF POOL OR SPA SHOCK PRODUCT
WILL VOID YOUR WARRANTY.
6. NEVER use an extension cord to connect the motor unit to the power
source. An extension cord will cause a voltage drop which may cause damage
to the pump motor and controls.
7. Do not operate without a GFCI located on the power supply. In the event
of an electrical short, this safety device shuts off the power in a fraction of a
second.
8. Install the Softub spa only on floors or areas that can withstand
repeated exposure to water (tile, brick, etc.). Splashing, dripping, filling and
draining are routine operations which will spill water. Equipment failure may also
cause substantial water spillage. Care must be taken that the structure
underneath the Softub spa will not warp or suffer damage in the event of a
water spill. If located in a multiple floor structure, objects on the floor below
should be protected in the event of a major spill.
9. Place only on surfaces that can withstand the floor loading
requirements of your tub. If you do not know the rating of your floor, consult
an architect or engineer before filling. See specifications on page 22.
6

ANUFACTURER’S WARNING (cont.)
10. NEVER use sharp utensils in or around the Softub spa. Sharp objects
can puncture the Leathertex and the tub liner.
11. Handle the motor unit gently. The components inside may incur damage if
dropped.
12. Do not open the motor unit. There are no user serviceable parts inside.
Opening the unit will void the warranty.
13. Pets should be kept away from your Softub spa to avoid damage.
14. indings in the “Journal of the American Medical Association” show that
women who are planning a pregnancy or are experiencing the first months of
pregnancy should avoid hot tubs and saunas. Please consult your physician
before using the Softub spa if you are pregnant or think you may be.
15. Prolonged immersion in hot water may induce hyperthermia. Hyperthermia
occurs when the internal temperature of the body reaches a level several
degrees above the normal body temperatures of 98.6º . Symptoms of
hyperthermia include dizziness, lethargy, drowsiness and fainting. The effects of
hyperthermia include failure to perceive heat, failure to recognize the need to
exit the spa, unawareness of impending hazard, fetal damage in pregnant
women, physical inability to exit the spa, and unconsciousness resulting in the
danger of drowning.
WARNING: The use of alcohol, drugs or medication can greatly increase
the risk of fatal hyperthermia.
16. Do not fill the Softub spa through any water softening device as this could
damage the liner.
7

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
Site Selection
Before selecting a site, please read the Safety Instructions, anufacturer’s
Warnings, and relevant Indoor/Outdoor Installation sections.
Your Softub spa is completely self-contained and portable. It can be set up on a
patio, deck, or even indoors.
A. Structure The Softub spa should always be placed on a structurally strong,
relatively smooth and level surface (see specifications on page 22 for loading
capacity).
B. Drainage Do not place the motor unit in an area where water will puddle
around it.
C. Electrical A pressure wire connector is provided in the underside of the
motor unit to permit connection of a minimum No. 8 AWG (8.4mm) solid copper
bonding conductor between this point and any metal equipment, metal
enclosures or electrical equipment, metal water pipe or conduit, within 5 feet
(1.5m) of the unit as needed to comply with local requirements.
Your Softub spa has been carefully engineered to provide maximum safety.
Connecting the Softub spa to an improperly wired circuit, or using an extension
cord, may cause damage to the motor unit that is not covered under warranty.
D. Location Choose a location that is not susceptible to infestation. This will
help to protect against ants, termites or any other type of burrowing insect as
well as field mice and rats from inhabiting the foam. Such an occurrence may
cause damage to your Softub and is not covered under warranty.
Outdoor Installation
You may place the Softub spa on any smooth surface (tile, concrete, wood,
brick or sand). Verify there are no sharp objects under the tub prior to set-up. It
is suggested you do not place the Softub spa in an area where dirt and debris
may be tracked into the tub. Check your local codes for restrictions (i.e.
childproof gates).
Your dealer may offer a variety of accessories. These include gazebos, spa
enclosures, and decks. A solid foundation is mandatory to ensure stability of the
structure or deck.
or easier maintenance, improved energy efficiency, better cleanliness and to
prolong the life of your Softub, always use the specially made protective cover,
available at your dealer.
8

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS (cont.)
Indoor Installation
Water splashing on the floor during use may cause a walking hazard and/or
structural damage unless adequate drainage is provided. The use of a catch
basin capable of holding the tub’s capacity of water is recommended as a
safeguard in the event of a major spill. Proper building material must be used in
the area surrounding and beneath the tub. Take into consideration the high
room humidity which will exist. Providing natural or forced ventilation in the room
will help maintain comfort and minimize moisture damage to the surrounding
environment.
Set-Up Checklist
__1. Your hot tub comes with safety straps, be sure to put them under the tub
prior to filling, laying them in an “x” fashion and setting the hot tub on top of the
straps. Make sure the straps are straight and the hot tub is placed on a level
surface.
__2. Put the lid on the hot tub and test the straps to make sure that you are able
to fasten them properly.
__3. Set the motor unit beside the Softub Spa on the same level surface. Align
the hoses from the motor unit with the fittings on the tub. DO NOT PLUG THE
UNIT IN.
__4. Take the three hose clamps (found in the accessory bag) and place them
over the hoses on the motor unit. Hint: Make sure the tightening nut is on top.
__5. Push the motor unit towards the tub while guiding the hoses over the tub
fittings. Hint: start with the air hose (smallest) first. Continue pushing until the
end of the hose covers the black tub fitting.
__6. Slide the clamps towards the tub. Allow about 1/4” of hose to show.
Tighten the clamps. Hint: Make sure not to over tighten-just make them snug-
you an always tighten more if the hose begins to leak while filling.
__7. With the motor now connected, make sure the tub is placed where you
want it to be. Remember to leave room for a deck surround or steps. Hint: The
tub an not be moved when full of water. Be sure to put the safety straps under
the tub prior to filling. Make sure the straps are straight.
9

Set-Up Checklist (cont.)
__8. Make sure any wrinkles in the liner are smoothed out. Then add about 1-2
inches of water. Stop filling, and add one tablespoon of chlorine from your water
treatment kit. Hint: Now is a good time to get out any remaining wrinkles. For
those who have a 300+ with a seat, you will need to stop filling again when the
water is 1-2 in hes above the seat to smooth any wrinkles. (CAUTION: Make
sure not to fill the tub with soft water.)
__9. When all wrinkles are removed, continue to fill until the water level is about
2 inches above the highest jet.
__10. As the tub fills, check your three hose clamp connections for leaks. Hint: If
you see a leak, don’t pani . Turn off the water and tighten the lamps until they
stop leaking.
__11. Make the electrical connection for the tub. Turn the power on to the tub.
__12. Get the foam insulation piece from the accessory package and place it
between the motor unit and the tub. Now cover the foam with the vinyl cover–
Velcro at the bottom.
__13. Open your water treatment kit and follow the recommendations to treat
and test your water. Make sure you read the water treatment section in this
manual. ailure to do so could damage your liner and void your warranty.
__14. Congratulations, your Softub is now ready to heat to your desired
temperature. Push the increase (^) button to make the water hotter or the
decrease (V) button to lower the water temperature. Set the temperature where
you will be most comfortable. Hint: While the tub is heating turn off the air
ontrol (fewer bubbles) - it’s the handle on top of the motor unit, and over the
tub with the lid. The water temperature will rise at about 1 - 2 °F per hour,
depending on the model and ambient onditions. The Softub Spa will turn off
after the water rea hes the set temperature. See WATER TEMPERATURE,
page 11, to adjust the temperature.
It is the responsibility of the tub owner to make sure the above installation
conditions are met as well as to follow the Safety and Warning
Instructions. Softub, Inc. is not responsible for any damage which may
result from water spillage, excessive humidity, or structural loading.
Please take all precautions necessary to ensure years of joyful use of your
Softub spa.
10

OPERATION
Your Softub spa has been designed to be simple to operate and maintain.
Water Temperature
By experimenting with different settings, you will find the temperature most
comfortable for you. The thermostat will automatically turn the tub on and off as
the temperature falls below, then reaches, the set temperature to maintain the
water temperature you have selected, twenty four hours a day.
Your Softub Spa will automatically display the temperature of the water in
your spa, whenever the pump is on and has been running for 2 minutes
continuously. A “P” will be displayed when the pump is not on, to indicate
that the water near the temperature sensors must be purged to get an
accurate reading of the water temperature. To display the water
temperature when “P” is showing on the display, press the “JETS” button.
After 2 minutes, the water temperature will be displayed.
To set the temperature, press the up or down arrow once to display the current
setting. Then, use the up (^) and down (V) arrows to adjust the temperature to
the setting you desire. The current temperature setting will display for 5
seconds after the up or down buttons are pressed. After this time has elapsed,
the display will revert to displaying the water temperature.
Special Temperature ode: The maximum normal setting for the temperature
is 40 °C (104 ° ). However, there is a Special Temperature Mode that will allow
the temperature to be set to 41 °C (106 ° ). To increase the temperature above
40 °C (104 ° ), first set the temperature to 40 °C (104 ° ). Then, press and hold
the JETS button and the ^ button for 10 seconds. The temperature on the
display panel will increase to 41 °C(106 ° ). When the Special Temperature
Mode is active the display will flash “SP1” every 5 seconds to indicate that you
are in this mode.
Jets
When the water is at the set temperature, the jets will not be on. If you wish
to use the tub, the JETS button on the control panel activates a timer that
overrides the temperature you have selected. This turns the jets on for a 15
minute period. If you want the jets to stop within that 15 minute period,
press the jets button again. During use (lid off and air valve open), the water
temperature usually drops enough to allow the thermostat to keep the motor
unit running after the 15 minute period. If the motor stops after 15 minutes
the jets button may be pressed again to keep the motor unit running.
Note: When the tub is in the standby part of the cycle in Overnight or Energy
Saver Mode the JETS button can still be used to turn on the 15 minute jet cycle.
After the cycle has elapsed, the jets will continue to operate to heat the tub to
the temperature you have set it to before returning to standby. Pressing the jets
button again will turn off the jets and return the tub to standby immediately.
11

OPERATION (cont.)
Filtration*
The tub automatically runs if it determines that it requires filtration. When the tub
is running in the filtration cycle, the filter icon will glow. The digital controls are
set to run two 15-minute filtration cycles in a 24 hour period. These will run
every 12 hours and are set when the spa is first plugged in. The filtration cycle
will only run if there has been no heat call in the prior 12 hours. If there has
been a heat call, the filtration cycle will be skipped, saving you money.
*patented programming
Ozone*(If your Softub is equipped with ozone)
Ozone is a gas that is used as an aid to the sanitizer in the water. Ozone helps
to oxidize any contaminants in the water. If your Softub is equipped with ozone,
the tub automatically cycles ozone into the water for the first 15 minutes of every
heat call as well as during a filtration cycle, should one be deemed necessary.
The ozone is controlled by a solenoid that automatically opens and closes an air
pathway to the body of water. In the event of a manual activation (depression of
the jets button) the ozone is automatically turned off and will not run until the
next heat call or filtration cycle. This prevents the immediate contact with ozone
as well as delaying the automatic opening of the air control, which leaves the
control of the air to the discretion of the user.
*patented design and programming
Air Control
The main air control valve is located on the control panel of the motor unit. To
open the air control, rotate the knob counter-clock-wise one quarter of a turn. To
close the air control, rotate the knob clockwise. Each jet can also be individually
directed by rotating the head of the jet. After using your tub the air control
should be turned off, so the addition of outside air does not slow the heating of
your tub.
See your Softub Dealer for optional jets which can customize your Softub Spa.
12

SoftSparkleTM ulti-Color LED Light
Some Softubs come equipped with
the SoftSparkle multi-color LED light.
This optional light affords 10
different lighting effects for your tub.
If your tub came equipped with this
light, the following instructions
explain the light and how it operates.
The SoftSparkle multi-color LED light is a 12 cluster LED RGB (red, green, blue). It has
4 red, 4 green and 4 blue LED lights. This light is programmed for 10 different light
modes. They are:
- White
- Spectrum Slow Dance (slow fades through the color spectrum)
- Sunburst (yellow and orange glow)
- Blue
- Red
- Green
- Magenta ade (pink, blue and red glow)
- Tidal ade (blue and green glow)
- Afterburner ade (red, orange, yellow, pink and purple glow)
- Color burst (strobe effect through color spectrum)
The unit operates in the following manner:
Depressing the light button turns the light on in the same mode it was last in. or
example: if the light was white when it was shut off, it will be white when it is turned on
a few days later. If the light is turned off then back on within 10 seconds, it advances to
the next mode. or example: if the light is white, is turned off and the light is turned
back on within 10 seconds it will come back on in the Spectrum Slow Dance mode.
Turning it off and back on again within 10 seconds will now advance the mode to the
Sunburst effect. If it is turned off for over 10 seconds, when turned back on it will be in
the last mode it was in. or example: the light is blue and it is turned off. If the light is
turned on in 1 minute, 30 minutes, 3 weeks, etc. the light will come back on in the blue
mode. So once a favorite mode is selected, just turning the light on and off when using
the tub will keep it in the same mode. To advance to another mode, turn the light on
and off within a 10 second time period.
Combination Lock
Your Softub features a patented combination
lock located at the end of the fastening straps
with the lock preset to open at 0-0. To reset
the combination to your own number, first
open the buckle, then use an object with a
small tip, such as a ball point pen, to press in
the reset button. Rotate the dial to your
desired number while keeping the reset
button depressed and release the button.
13

Special Operating odes
Your Softub comes equipped with two special operating modes, Overnight
Mode and Energy Saver Mode. Overnight Mode will put your tub in standby for
12 hours a day and allow it to operate normally for the other 12 hours. Energy
Saver Mode will put your tub into standby except for a single heat call at the
same time every day. When your tub is in standby it will to continue to operate
as normal but it will not automatically go into a heat call if the water temperature
drops below the set temperature.
If you would like your tub to heat to the set temperature while it is in standby,
this can be done by pressing the JETS button. Once the set temperature has
been reached the tub will go back into standby. To stop the heat call before the
set temperature has been reached and return the tub to standby immediately,
simply press the jets button again.
Overnight ode: If you do not want your tub to run during the night, this mode
can be used to allow your tub to run normally during the day and to go into a
standby mode during the night. Overnight Mode runs on a 12 hour cycle. When
it is first activated your tub will go into standby for the following 12 hour period.
Then it will operate as normal for the next 12 hours. or example, if you don’t
want your tub to run between 8 pm and 8 am, then you would activate Overnight
Mode at 8 pm. As long as this mode remained active, your tub would run as
normal from 8 am to 8 pm and would go into standby from 8 pm to 8 am every
day.
Overnight Mode can be activated by pressing and holding the LIGHT (or
RESET) button, the JETS button and the ^ button for 10 seconds, until “12”
flashes on the display panel. While in this mode the heat and filter lights will
flash twice every 15 seconds. To deactivate this mode press and hold the
LIGHT (or RESET) button, the JETS button and the V button for 10 seconds,
until “12” flashes on the display panel.
Energy Saver ode: In Energy Saver Mode your tub will only heat to the set
temperature once a day. If you use your tub at the same time every day, this
mode will keep your tub from maintaining the set temperature unnecessarily,
when you will not be using it. This mode is also useful when you will be away
for a few days and want to minimize the energy used by your tub. Energy Saver
Mode runs a single heat call/ filter cycle every day at the time that the mode was
first activated. or example, if you like to use your tub every day at 5 pm, you
could activate this mode at 4 pm. Then your tub will cycle once every day at 4
pm and will be at your desired temperature when you go to use it at 5 pm.
Energy Saver Mode can be activated by pressing and holding the LIGHT (or
RESET) button and the ^ button for 10 seconds, until “24” flashes on the
display panel. While in this mode the filter light will flash once every 10
seconds. To deactivate this mode, press and hold the LIGHT (or RESET)
button and the V button for 10 seconds, until “24” flashes on the display panel.
14

AINTENANCE
Water Treatment
Water treatment is an important factor in the enjoyment of your Softub Spa.
Proper water maintenance is essential for the health of your friends and family
as well as for permitting years of trouble-free use of your Softub Spa. We
strongly recommend the use of Softcare Chemicals, formulated for vinyl lined
spas or their exact equivalents.
The most common water chemistry problems that can damage the Softub Spa
are:
1. Improper pH management.
Too low a pH level will result in excessive wrinkles and damage to the vinyl liner
as well as corrosion in the motor unit.
2. Not removing the lid and not turning on the jets when adding
chemicals. (Leave the lid off and the water circulating for at least 10 minutes
after adding chemicals.)
3. Use of improper chemicals.
Sodium dichlor is the recommended type of sanitizer. Sodium dichlor dissolves
easily and has a neutral pH, which minimizes the effect that the addition of a
sanitizer has on pH balance. Trichlor compounds are not recommended
because they have a very low pH, are very strong, and difficult to dissolve.
Granules of this chemical may cause damage to the vinyl. High chlorine or
bromine levels can damage the vinyl and pose health risks. loating dispensers
are not recommended because of the potential of high chemical concentrations.
Use of trichlor, bromine or floating chlorine dispensers will void the warranty on
your liner. Sodium dichlor is the only approved sanitizer for use in Softubs.
4. Over-Chlorinization
5. Not maintaining the water chemistry.
The water chemistry in your tub should be checked at least twice a week. If it is
neglected and the chemistry is allowed to get out of balance, damage can be
done to your liner.
It is the responsibility of the owner to properly maintain the chemical balance
and sanitation of the water. Softub Inc. is not responsible for any damages
which result from improperly maintained water. Improper water maintenance
may result in voiding the warranty.
If you have any questions regarding chemicals, please contact your dealer.
WARNING: USING SHOCK WILL VOID YOUR WARRANTY.
15

Water Sanitization
Proper spa water maintenance not only requires proper pH and total alkalinity
levels, it also requires an effective sanitizer to control and prevent bacteria
growth. Heated water and a higher bather load ratio can result in increased
water challenges due to a great deal of residual soaps, deodorants, perfumes,
natural body oils and other cosmetics. In order to avoid these issues, it is very
important that you use products specifically formulated for your Softub. A
sanitizer kills germs, bacteria, and impurities in the water.
Your Softub should be sanitized using sodium dichlor granular chlorine. It is the
simplest and most efficient sanitizer available. Add about 1-2 tablespoons at
start up to establish a chlorine residual in the water. After that, check your
chlorine regularly with your test strips and add chlorine as needed. The level of
sanitizer should be checked and adjusted after every use of the spa. The
amount of chlorine needed will be determined by how much you use the spa
and how many contaminants are added to the water. Always add chlorine with
the jets running and the lid off.
A. Recommended Water Balance
ree Available Chlorine Residual: 2 - 3 ppm
pH: 7.4 - 7.8 (ideal 7.6)
Total Alkalinity: 80 - 120 ppm
Calcium Hardness: 50 - 150 ppm
Total Dissolved Solids Below: 1,500 ppm
Test your water chemistry after each use of the Softub Spa, but no less than
twice per week. Avoid a low pH, as this will cause unsightly wrinkles to
form in the liner and could void your warranty.
B. Chemical Additions
1. Test the water chemistry before adding chemicals. Once chemicals have
been added you will not be able to get accurate test results for several hours.
2. Always have the water circulating and the lid off when adding chemicals. Add
only one chemical at a time and leave the lid off and the water circulating for at
least 10 minutes after the chemicals have been added.
3. loating dispensers should never be used. They can bleach the liner by over-
concentration and lower the pH.
4. Do not use gas chlorination, ionizers, scents, salts or soaps that are not
approved for use in the Softub Spa. Consult your dealer.
Empty your Softub Spa and refill it with clean water 2-3 times per year or when it
becomes cloudy and proper water chemistry does not clear it up.
****WARNING: USING SHOCK WILL VOID YOUR WARRANTY.****
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Filter Cleaning
Clean your filter at least once a month depending on usage. To do so, remove
the filter in warm water, remove the outer sock and follow the directions on the
bottle of the filter cleaner. Replace the sock and snap the filter into position on
either of the suction covers. You must first soak the filter connector in luke
warm water for one or two minutes before snapping it onto the suction
cover. Do not attempt to remove or install the filter unless the filter
connector is warm. The filter should be replaced at least once a year.
Filling & Draining
Empty and clean your Softub Spa 2-3 times a year or when the water chemistry
becomes difficult to manage. Always unplug the motor unit before draining the
tub. If you pump water out of the spa, do not allow the suction end of the hose
to contact the vinyl – this may damage the vinyl and void your warranty.
Your tub should be drained using a siphon, or a submersible pump (available
from your dealer). Before refilling your tub, thoroughly clean the inner liner
material according to the instructions below.
When filling your tub, always make sure the water temperature is not over 104º
/40º C. To reduce the time needed for the initial warm up, warm household
water may be used, if you are not using a water softening device. ill the spa
slowly (over a period of a few hours). This allows your home’s water heater to
recover and supply enough warm water.
Inner Liner aterial
While empty, use a mild soap solution and a soft sponge to thoroughly clean the
inner liner. Rinse thoroughly before refilling the tub. Do not use cleaning aids
such as steel wool, stiff bristle brushes, abrasive cleaners, acidic cleaners (such
as citrus based cleaners) or cleaners containing harsh chemicals including
bleach and ammonia.
If your liner does get a tear or puncture, contact your dealer.
Storing & Transporting
You may save the original shipping carton from the tub and motor unit for
storing and transporting. Before re-packing, make sure all components are
completely dry and clean. The tub and lid must be stored horizontally.
I PORTANT! Be sure nothing is placed on top of the tub when it is stored
away. Do not store empty in sunlight.
or transporting, the tub should be in its original shipping container and securely
tied down. The use of a strapping device of at least 1 ½” wide is recommended.
A tarp or net may be needed to spread out tension. If boxes are not available,
tension must be sufficient to prevent the Softub Spa from floating out of the
vehicle, but not so great as to cause any permanent markings on the vinyl or the
foam.
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Water Level
Always keep the water level at least 2 inches above the top jet. This will ensure
that the jets do not spray water out of the tub, as well as not overworking the
motor. The lid should not float on the water when covered; this would indicate
an over-filled tub.
LEATHER TEX®
The exterior of the tub, lid, and motor unit are made of Leather Tex® which is
specifically formulated to resist mildew, cracking and discoloration.
A. Cleaning
Use a mild soap and water solution to wash the vinyl, then rinse with clean
water. Avoid abrasive soaps, acidic cleaners (such as citrus based cleaners),
cleaners containing harsh chemicals including bleach and ammonia, tools or
any other solvents. Improper use of these products can void the warranty.
Please contact your Softub dealer to obtain cleaners that will not damage your
liner.
B. Solar Exposure
If your Softub Spa is located outside, we strongly recommend the use of the
Softub Protective Cover (available from your dealer). This will protect the Softub
Spa from direct ultra-violet (UV) exposure, keep rain water out of the tub, and
keep the surface clean. If you are placing a dark color Softub Spa in direct
sunlight, the use of a Softub Protective Cover is recommended. Never cover
your Softub Spa with a transparent plastic covering.
C. Repair
If your exterior does get a tear or puncture, contact your dealer.
Winterizing/Vacationing
If you are taking a vacation or leaving your Softub Spa outdoors and unused for
a week or more, you should leave the lid on, air control valve closed, and set the
temperature control to 80º /27º C. This will protect the Softub Spa from
freezing, yet continue to filter the tub water to maintain cleanliness. Upon return,
adjust the water chemistry to correct chlorine and pH levels and increase the
temperature to the desired level.
If you are leaving your tub for an extended period of time, or do not plan on
using it, drain your system completely. Turn the motor unit so that the hoses are
facing down, and allow all water to drain from the internal plumbing. ailure to
do so may cause the water to freeze and severely damage your motor unit.
Replace the lid on the tub.
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