Strong Pools and Spas Rio Spa User manual

OWNER’S MANUAL
P.O. Box 108
Northumberland, PA 17857
1-800-STRONG-9
1-800-787-6649
™
2/15/06
CAUTION:
More than one GFCI
used on the electrical
circuit will render this
spa inoperable.
This spa must be on a
dedicated circuit.

Table of Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 1
Safety Instructions...................................................................................................................... 2
Installation Instructions............................................................................................................... 3
Electrical - General..................................................................................................................... 4
Control Panel Identification........................................................................................................ 5
Start Up Preparations ................................................................................................................ 6
Changing the Filter Cycles ........................................................................................................ 7
Trouble Shooting................................................................................................................. 7 - 8
Spa Maintenance ............................................................................................................. 9 - 10
Jets - Valves - Injectors - Suction.............................................................................................11
Warranties .................................................................................................................................12
Safety Precautions ...................................................................................................................13
Registration Card......................................................................................................................13
Be sure to locate the
Registration Form
at the back of this owner’s manual.
Please fill it out and send it to
Strong Pools and Spas immediately.
Failure to return this registration card within 30 days of purchase voids all warranties provided by
Strong Pools and Spas

1
Introduction
The Rio Spa
Please use this space to record
the pertinent information about
your new spa here:
Date of Purchase: ________/________/_______
Color: _________________________________
Serial # 
Your Strong Spas
Spa Serial Number is located
on the Control Pack box panel.
Congratulations on your purchase of the finest, Rotational Molded resin whirlpool spa on the
market today. We at Strong Pools & Spas are excited to assist your family in "Creating a
Lifestyle that Lasts a Lifetime".
With proper care, operation and maintenance, your spa will provide your family many years of
comfort and pleasure. Please take time to read all the instructions before you install your
Strong Pools & Spa, "Rio" spa.
This manual explains safety precautions, installation instructions, operating directions and
maintenance procedures. If you have any questions after reading this manual, please call
your dealer or Strong Pools & Spas service representative at 1-800-787-6649.
Read and understand all safety instructions, operating instructions and all warnings and
cautions before adding water or attaching electrical power.

2
WARNING People with infectious diseases should not use a spa.
The use of alcohol, drugs or medication before or during spa use may lead to uncon-
sciousness with the possibility of drowning.
Do Not use the spa immediately following strenuous exercise.
Persons suffering from heart disease, diabetes, high or low blood pressure or any other
serious illness and pregnant women should consult with their physician before using the
spa.
Excessive water temperature can be dangerous. Before entering the spa, the user should
measure the water temperature with an accurate thermometer, since the tolerance of the
water temperature regulating devices may vary as much as +/-3°C(5°F) The Water should
never exceed 40°C (104°F) and lower water temperature is recommended for extended
use (exceeding 10-15 minutes) and for young children.
Long exposure at higher temperature can result in dizziness and/or hyperthermia.
Hyperthermia occurs when the internal temperature of the body reaches a level several
degrees above the normal body temperature of 98°F (36.7°C). The symptoms of hyper-
thermia include dizziness, fainting, drowsiness or lethargy.
The affects of hyperthermia include:
• Unawareness of impending hazard
• Failure to perceive heat
• Failure to recognize the need to exit the spa
• Physical inability to exit the spa
• Fetal damage in pregnant women
• Unconsciousness resulting in a danger of drowning
Children should be supervised at all times.
Important Safety Instructions
DO NOT OPERATE SPA WITHOUT CORRECT WATER LEVEL!
Actual features included in spa’s descriptions and photos are subject to change without notice.

3
Spa Location:
Improper installation may result in equipment damage and will void the warranty. Your spa
must be placed on a flat, level surface.
The space you choose to install your spa is a very important decision, you should consider all
of the listed suggestions.
Check your local code office for understanding of building, fencing, gates, electrical,
plumbing and enclosure required codes.
Alocation should be selected to compliment your lifestyle, the view from your house and
the ability to supervise the spa.
Position the spa in relation to the surroundings of trees, sunlight exposure, wind, bathroom
location, landscaping and evening lighting.
The spa with water is very heavy, if the spa is placed on flooring or decking, be sure the
structure is strong enough to support the weight. The necessary support should be at least
75 pounds per square foot.
Install your spa, in a way that will allow easy access to the equipment door.
Storage area for maintenance equipment and chemicals (storing chemicals inside your
spa cabinet will void the warranty)
Indoor Considerations:
All of the interior of the spa location must be able to withstand high humidity. The spa chemi-
cals may have some corrosive effect.
Floor drain is needed to carry off splashed water from the spa.
It is strongly advised NOT to locate a spa on second story location that may be above fin-
ished living space.
Installation Instructions

4
Connections should be made using copper conductors only. The connecting wire and circuit
breakers or fuses must be sized to accommodate the total ampere load as specified on the
equipment module data label.
Strong Pools and Spas only makes electrical recommendations, always consult a certified electrician.
It is recommended that a licensed electrician install the power to your spa, in accordance with
the National Electric Code or any local electrical codes in effect at the time of installation.
The circuit breaker must be dedicated and cannot be shared with any other appliances. It
should be labeled and easily accessible to users. DO NOT USE EXTENSION OR PLUG-
TYPE CORDS OF ANY KIND. The use of a shut-off box near the spa is recommended.
Metal surfaces within 5 feet of the spa must be grounded to the spa.
A120 Volt - 15 Amp GFI rated plug is furnished with the Rio Spa.
Electrical - General Instructions
CAUTION: This spa will not work if more than one GFCI is used on the circuit.

5
Control Panel Identification
JETS 1 Press the Jets1 key to activate the pump. The system will run for 30 minutes, at
which time the system will automatically shut off, unless done so manually prior to
30 minute period.
AUX The auxiliary key will activate an optional second pump or blower. Auxiliary key is
also used in conjunction with other keys to change settings.
LIGHT Press Light to turn the light on/off. The Antigua Spa is equipped with an LED Multi-
Color Light. The colors will cycle as you press the light button on and off.
HEAT Press the Heat key to adjust the temperature. Press once and hold will raise tem-
perature. Press a second time and hold will lower temperature to the minimum set
point of 70º F or 21º C. A red LED will flash at the topside control when the heater is
on.
There are FOUR unions that may require hand tightening prior to operation of
your spa. When filling the spa with water, keep observing these fittings for any
slight water drips. If a drip is observed, just hand tighten until dripping ceases.
BEFORE START UP! IMPORTANT UNION ADJUSTMENTS

6
Before starting up your spa, make sure you have read and understand all of the previous
instructions. Make sure the spa has been installed correctly, including the electrical wiring
connections as specified,
• Spa's water is at the correct level
• Pump is primed
To prime the air from the system,
simply turn open the key type screw
at the right end of the motor/pump.
The key should be turned just enough
to allow the excess air in the water
lines to escape. When a spurt of
water is flowing, close the screw and
you have completed the priming of
the pump.
• Ensure all valves are opened
• Turn circuit breaker on
The control panel has automatic functions that operate upon start up and normal operation to
protect the system. Upon power up, the read out will display three-digit software release.
This number will then change to 888 while the system is booting up. After starting up, the low
speed pump will start running if the water temperature is below 100°F (37.8°C). If a "FL1"
appears on the display,turn the system off and repeat step 2. If the water temperature is
below 55°F (12.8°C) "ICE" will alternately display with the water temperature, this is normal
operation.
Approximately two minutes after the system has been powered up, the first filtration cycle will
begin to operate. Any time after the start up, you will be able to change the filter cycle and
reset your temperature set point
NOTE: Let run 3 seconds, if no water flow can be detected, turn off the power to the spa and
re-prime the pump.
On Cold startups, the air valve must be closed.
motor key pump
Startup Preparations

7
FILTRATION
Proper filtration is an important key to maintaining the clarity of your spa's water. The filter
system is designed for unsurpassed effectiveness at removing debris and suspensions from
the water anytime the water is circulating.
Your control panel is set to filter for two hours every twelve hours. A two speed pump is sup-
plied with your spa that provides filtration on low speed, the low speed will shut off if the tem-
perature creeps more than 2 degrees above the set point, it will turn back on when tempera-
ture drops to the set point.
Press Heat key and Auxiliary key simultaneously and hold to adjust the filter cycle form the
two hours every 12 hours period.
Changing Filter Cycles
Troubleshooting
*indicates qualified service technician recommended
Heat Mode 120V Version
In LC ( Low Current ) Mode ( 120V versions ): Jets 1 must be in low speed and AUX (optional pump 2 or
blower) must be off before heater can be turned on.
If the red indicator DOT in the bottom right of your temperature window is not flashing when there is a demand
for heat, press the AUX key to shut off the optional secondary pump / blower circuit. This secondary circuit will
automatically shut off in 30 min if left on.
No display at topside*
• Check that connection to main board is clean and sound at J8.
• Test a new topside control
• Check for 120V primary power going into the transformer and for 12V secondary power out of the trans-
former to J6 and J7 on the board before replacing the transformer.
• Relace board if there is 12V to J6 and J7.
Display flashes “th1/38” on system start up*
• Check that temperature sensing probe connection to main board is clean and sound
at location J2.
• Try new temperature sensing probe.
Display flashes “th2/current temperature” on system start up*
• Check that the temperature sensing probe connected to the main board is clean and sound at location J1.
• Try new temperature sensing probe.
Display flashes “th2/39” on system start up
• This indicates that both sensors ( thermisters ) are detecting tub water temperature of less than 39F or
they are both disconnected ( open ). Pump(s) will run in this condition. See Freeze Protect Override
(FPO) instructions for cold water fill up.
Display flashes”OH” (OVERHEAT)
• This indicates that the spa water temperature is over 112ºF. The system should be shut down in this state
and will re-start automatically when the water cools below 112ºF.

8
Display flashes “hot” (OVERHEAT)
• This indicates that the heater body is over 112ºF. The system should be shut down
in this state and will re-start automatically when the water cools below 112ºF.
Display flashes “HL” (HIGH LIMIT)
• This indicates that either the heater or the spa has reached 118ºF or higher. The system will not re-start
automatically. To re-start the system, the water temperature must be below 112ºF and the heater key at
the topside control must be pressed.
Display flashes “FLO” (FLOW)
• This indicates that there is a water flow problem or defective pressure switch.
• make sure filters are clean
• check that service valves are open
• check for obstruction of flow
• adjust pressure switch (see pressure switch detail under description and use of controls)
Display flashes “FLC”*
• This indicates that the pressure switch is stuck in the closed position and should be replaced.
Erratic operation at topside panel*
•Check for proper connection at J8
• Shut off system and restart
• Check for debris inside topside panel control housing
• Check cable connection at the topside control remove, clean reconnect.
• Try new topside control
• Replace main board
Pump(s), blower or light does not shut off*
• Try new topside control
• Replace main board
Circulation pump does not work*
• Check the fuse and power connections.
Light does not work
• Press Light to turn the light on/off. The Antigua Spa is equipped with an LED Multi-Color Light. The colors
will cycle as you press the light button on and off.
Freeze Protect Over-ride FPO
This function is intended to be used on start-up after a fresh fill if water temp is below 52ºF. The 6 hour dura-
tion of the FPO cycle is counted from the time the unit is powered-up and not from the time of its activation.
By pressing the Jets 1 and Light key simultaneously for 10 seconds, the freeze protect feature will be suspend-
ed for 6 hours. ( the FPO will be activated) This is to allow the installer of the spa to check for normal operation
if the spa is filled with water that is less than the set freeze protect level 52ºF. FPO will appear every 10 sec-
onds at the topside control. To manually go back to freeze protect mode, power down the system and re-boot.
It is recommended that the system be left on low speed and heating in FPO mode.
Troubleshooting
*indicates qualified service technician recommended

9
Spa Maintenance
The maintenance and care of your spa is simple and easy to carry out, and if performed regu-
larly as scheduled, problems will be minimal. It is important that the following procedures be
read through and carried out on a regular basis for the best, long term, overall performance of
your spa.
The filtering cycle of your spa should be operated at least two hours or more a day (whether
or not the heater is heating) to remove impurities and to prevent disposition of contaminants
in your spa. The filtering system works automatically. Keep the spa covered when not in use
to reduce the loss of heat and to keep debris from settling in the water.
Maintaining the spa's proper water chemical balance is essential to the comfort and safety of
the user. Water mineral content varies constantly and is directly affected by evaporation and
the use of cleaning and maintenance chemicals, which will increase mineral content, when
added. If the mineral content deviates from prescribed pH level (7.2-7.8) deposits on the spa
walls, filter, electric heating element or gas heater manifold and piping may adversely affect
the condition of your spa equipment.
Since the water capacity of your spa is far less than that of a swimming pool, the chemical
reaction caused by the presence of one or more persons in the spa is more rapid and pro-
nounced. In other words, it is much more difficult to maintain the proper pH balance in a spa
than in a swimming pool. For these reasons, it is important to check frequently, the total alka-
linity of the water, the pH level, and the sanitize level, then add prescribed chemicals as nec-
essary to maintain the proper chemical balance. Failure to maintain a proper balance of
chemicals in your spa will result in an early, premature failure of your spa parts including, but
not limited to, the spa cover, piping, certain electrical components in the spa, electrical control
box and topside panel, thus voiding the warranty.
ESSENTIAL CHEMICALS AND THERE USE
The following information on chemical use for spa maintenance is provided strictly as a
guide for the spa owner and may or may not be appropriate to maintain your spa correctly
and may, under certain conditions, be harmful to your spa and/or persons using the spa.
Always check with your pool and spa dealer to determine which chemicals and/or proce-
dures they recommend to maintain your spa correctly. STRONG POOLS and SPAS does
hereby claim no responsibility or liability for use of and quantities of the chemicals listed.

10
CONCENTRATED CHLORINATING GRANULES - The minimum chlorine level in the spa
should be at least 2PPM (parts per million). Chlorine level should be tested frequently and
the chemical added to maintain a safe level of 2PPM. This type of chemical can be added
in quantities of 0.5 ounce per 500 gallons of spa water. Check the chlorine level at least
seven hours or more after adding to determine the full effect of the added chemical.
Liquid chlorine is not recommended.
ORGANIC POLYMERS - are used in various forms. These chemicals clear up cloudy or
dirty water appearance and prevent calcium deposits on the inside spa finish, plumbing
and heating equipment. Use as recommended by the manufacturer.
METAL GON - or its equivalent is a chemical that will prevent iron in the spa water from
staining the spa finish. This chemical is added to the spa water when the spa is filled for
the first time or when refilled. Use as recommended by the manufacturer.
SILICONE EMULSION - quickly and effectively disperses foam and is completely compati-
ble with the other chemicals listed. Use as recommended by the manufacturer.
SPA WATER - should be changed periodically, depending upon frequency of use and
other conditions that may affect water suitability. Typically 60 to 90 days is a satisfactory
interval under normal conditions. With heavy usage, the interval between water changing
should be less.
SPA FILTER CARTRIDGE - should be cleaned every 2 to 4 weeks depending on the fre-
quency of use. Rinse the filter cartridge with a pressure hose and re-install filter cartridge
in the filter housing. When changing spa water it is good practice to soak the filter car-
tridge in filter cleaner. The filter cleaner is specially made to remove accumulation of oils
and other contaminates which will ensure good, sanitary water and extended filter car-
tridge life.
ADDING CHEMICALS - to your spa water: Add to the center of the spa with the pump
and the air blower (bubbles) operating simultaneously. Make sure the water is heated.
Never add chemicals to cold water, as this will effect chemical action. Also, never add
chemicals directly into the skimmer.
Store all chemicals in a cool, dry place and in such a way as to prevent children and pets
from contacting.
Spa Maintenance

11
Jet 2”
Jets, Valves, Injection and Suction
Top Air Control Valve
(Air Control Valve should be turned off
when spa is not in use. The spa will heat
up faster.)
Bottom Suction
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12
WARRANTIES
LIFETIME ON THE SHELL
The Rio Spa is forge-cast from authentic granite resin and is warranted for the life of the spa
to the original owner.
ONE YEAR ON CONTROL EQUIPMENT AND PLUMBING
The control equipment (power pack, heater, pump/motor) is warranted against defects in
materials and/or workmanship for a period of one year on parts.
The plumbing (including fittings) is warranted against leaking due to defects in materials
and/or workmanship for a period of one (1) year on parts.
Ozone Generator System – is warranted against defects in materials and/or workmanship for
a period of one (1) year on parts. Warranty extends only to the original purchaser. Warranty
does not apply to breakage due to obvious misuse.
NOTE: the warranty begins from the date of delivery and is only valid to the original owner.
The warranty does not cover damage caused by neglect, misuse,improper hookup and water
chemistry or leaving the empty spa exposed to the sun. Pressure Switch adjustments are cov-
ered for thirty (30) days from delivery. Travel or mileage costs are not covered under these
warranties and may be assessed to the consumer by the repair company. Strong Spas shall not
be liable for loss of use of the spa or other incidental or consequential costs, expenses or dam-
age.
For current update changes on warranties, consult our website at www.strongspas.com
Strong Pools and Spas
Adivision of Strong Industries, Inc.
3204 Point Township Drive (Rte 11) • P.O. Box 108
Northumberland, PA 17857-0108
570-275-2700
fax; 570-275-2177
E-mail: [email protected]
Web Site: www.strongpools.com
1-800-STRONG-9
1-800-787-6649

13
FOR YOUR RECORDS:
For future use, it is advisable that you write down some information pertaining to the model of
the spa you have purchased. If you are unsure of the model name, frame size, etc., contact
your dealer immediately to acquire the information needed. When making a warranty claim or
just purchasing replacement parts, it is necessary to know the following information.
PURCHASE DATE: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
MODEL NAME: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
SERIAL NUMBER: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
SHELL COLOR: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
Failure to return this registration card within 30 days of purchase voids all warranties provided by Strong Pools and Spas
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS / DANGER - RISK OF INJURY
1. Please use the Hot Tub when others are present.
2. Children should be supervised at all times.
3. To avoid the risk of drowning, keep the filter clean and unclogged. Do not remove the
suction drain cover. Do not modify the suction or filtration systems.
4. Exercise caution when entering or leaving the Hot Tub. When changing positions, be sure
of your footing before applying your full weight as water refraction can be misleading.
5. Do not stay in the water for extended periods of time. Set reasonable time limits. Leave
the Hot Tub, cool down, take a shower, relax, then return for another stay.
Purchaser’s Name:
Address:
City, State, Zip:
Telephone No.:
Signature:
Comments:
Purchase Date:
Model Name:
Serial Number:
Dealer’s Name:
Address:
REGISTRATION CARD
I have read and fully understand the warranties given to me by STRONG POOLS & SPAS and have assembled my spa in accor-
dance with THIS INSTRUCTION BOOKLET. Furthermore, I have read the POINTS ON SPA SAFETY at the top of this warran-
ty card. I am returning this card to you, signed by me, in order to register my spa in accordance with your warranties.
Points on Spa Safety for Strong Spas Spa Owners
▼
▼

RETAIN THIS BOOKLET FOR FUTURE REFERENCE:
FOR ANY MISSING PARTS, PROBLEMS OR QUESTIONS CALL:
MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM E.S.T.
[phone]
•GIVE YOUR NAME
•TELEPHONE NUMBER (AREA CODE)
•NAME OF SPA
•NAME OF MODEL
•QUANTITY AND TYPE OF PARTS
•REASON FOR REQUEST
A. DAMAGED
B. DEFECTIVE
PLACE
STAMP
HERE
STRONG POOLS & SPAS
3204 Point Township Drive (Rte. 11)
P.O. Box 108
Northumberland PA 17857