SwimEx SX400S User manual

OWNER'S MANUAL
An Instruction Manual For The SwimEx Aquatic Exercise Machine
Models SX400S, SX480S, SX500S & SX600S
SwimEx Systems
846 Airport Rd, Fall River, MA 02720
800-877-7946

TABLE OF CONTENTS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS………………………..Preface
HOW THE SWIMEX WORKS/ SAFETY FEATURES………….. 1.0
WARNINGS & PRECAUTIONS…………………………………. 2.0
HOW TO OPERATE THE SWIMEX, A USER’S GUIDE………. 3.0
VARIATIONS & MAINTENANCE……………………………….4.0
TROUBLESHOOTING…………………………………………… 5.0
WATER QUALITY GUIDELINES………………………………..6.0
CUSTOMER SERVICE INFORMATION…………………………7.0
REPLACEMENT PARTS LIST………………………………… 8.0

HOW THE SWIMEX WORKS
The enclosed paddlewheel at the rear of the tank pulls water from the swim area and propels
it down and under the false-bottom floor, or side channels, of the SwimEx. The water is
guided forward, and when it reaches the front of the unit, it is turned back towards the swim
area, where it flows through the grille and into the swim area.
The water current is 18" to 36" inches deep, depending on the model, and is as wide as the
swim area. This current travels down the length of the swim area and is pulled through the
rear grate where the paddlewheel again propels the water through the system to create a
smooth, continuous water current.
Pneumatic (air) control buttons are used to "Start" and "Stop," and to adjust the water
current using the "Slow" and "Fast" buttons. These are located on the front wall of the swim
area. There is also a "Stop Bar" located on the top lip above the paddlewheel grille. In
addition to the "Stop" button located on the front lip of the pool, pushing or depressing the
“Stop Bar” with your hand will stop the paddlewheel. When air pulses, generated when you
depress a button, travel through the air tubes that connect these control buttons to the AC
Tech controller, they enter a sensor that turns them into electrical currents. Two types of air
pulses can be generated. By quickly depressing a button and immediately letting it up, a short
air pulse is generated. This is ideal for the “Start” and “Stop” buttons. Secondly, by
depressing and holding in a button for up to 3 seconds, a longer air pulse is generated which
will cause the electrical current in the AC Tech controller to last for the 3 seconds. This is
ideal for the “Fast” and “Slow” commands, as it allows for a longer response to increase or
decrease the water current speed.
The electrical current that is controlled by the air buttons regulates the power (amps) going
from the AC Tech controller to the paddlewheel motor. The amount of power sent to the
paddlewheel motor will determine the paddlewheel rotation speed, thus, controlling the water
current speed. Once it is set, the power output to the paddlewheel motor will remain steady,
ensuring that the water speed you have selected will remain constant.

SAFETY FEATURES
All SwimEx pools are made to the industry’s highest standards. These pools are made for a
lifetime of safe, fun swimming and exercising. Listed below are some of the major safety
features of SwimEx pools.
* Pneumatic (Air) Button Swimmer Controls: Stop, Start, Slow, and Fast air push
buttons let you adjust the current from inside the pool.
* Rear Shut-Off Bar: air tube mounted along the entire length of the rear of the pool -
push anywhere on the tube to immediately stop the current.
* E.T.L. (Electronic Testing Laboratories) Approved: the entire SwimEx pool and the
options have been tested and approval by E.T.L. under UL specifications for spas &
hot tubs (UL1563).
* Front and Rear Safety Grilles: 3/4" thick stainless steel front and rear grilles protect
the swimmer from the paddlewheel propulsion system. Additionally, the rear grille
(intake) openings are only 1/8" wide.
* Front and Side Handrails: stainless steel grab rails surround the water area for added
safety.
* Non-Skid Surface: the entire pool floor is manufactured with a non-skid surface that
will not wear down.
* Main Drain & Filter Intakes: the main drain is not accessible from the swim area.
There are two filter (water) intakes, or suction lines: one is not accessible from the swim
area, and the other is housed in a basket located in the skimmer.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
High speed settings can be threatening. Set water speed at a comfortable level for
each individual.
When set at full speed, the SwimEx is designed to provide strong swimmers with a
strenuous work-out. Warning: Improper use may result in serious injury or death.
Wear goggles every time you swim.
A qualified instructor must always be present.
Never dive in the swim area.
Never turn on the machine when the floating cover is in place.
Never enter the swim area unless the floating cover is completely removed and stored
away.
Never press your body against the rear grate. Do not permit objects to block the
grate.
Do not take apart, or attempt to adjust the electronic controller. Serious injury or
death may occur. Contact a licensed electrician or the SwimEx Customer Service
Department.
Never run the filter system's pump when the shut-off valves are in the off position.
This will cause severe damage to the system, and will burn out the pump. (The shut-
off valves are located on the water lines running from the SwimEx: 2 valves to the
filter system and back from the filter system to the SwimEx, and 1 valve at the eyeball
inlet.)
Keep the water level at the prescribed amounts. Low water levels will cause noisy
operation due to air in the system. Also, high speed operation at low water levels
could damage the machine. High water levels will not damage the SwimEx but will
cause excess splashing and will create waves, not the smooth current that is desired.
Always check the water quality and temperature before using the SwimEx, and adjust
as needed.

HOW TO OPERATE THE SWIMEX
Make sure to read this entire manual BEFORE using your SwimEx. Read and comply with
the directions on the instructional decal located on the inside front wall of the SwimEx.
The following is the SwimEx User's Guide. We recommend keeping the original copy intact
with this manual, and also keeping a waterproof copy near the SwimEx for easy reference, or
for guest's use.

SWIMEX USER'S GUIDE
Always consult your physician before using the SwimEx, or before beginning any
exercise or therapy program.
Never swim alone.
Never dive into the SwimEx.
Wear swim goggles at all times, and a bathing cap when necessary.
Make sure the floating thermal blanket is removed from the swim area and stored
away before starting the paddlewheel.
Keep water filled to the prescribed level:*
1/4" above the front lip for the 5 HP drive system
1/2" above the front lip for the 7.5 HP drive system
*The following is a more accurate way to adjust the water level: Fill the unit slightly
higher than normal. Submerge yourself up to your neck. By pressing the fast button,
bring the water current up to full speed. Slowly drain the water from the pool until
the water current (coming out of the front grate) is smooth and FLAT. (No Waves or
Air Bubbles!) Stop draining. This is your ideal water level.
Check the water temperature and chemical levels, and adjust as needed.
1) Enter the swim area via the ladder or stairs located in the rear of the SwimEx.
2) Move to the front of the swim area where the swimmer's control panel is located.
3) Press the START button (this activates/starts the paddlewheel).
4) Press the FAST button until desired water speed is reached -- allow approximately
30 seconds for the current to reach this speed.
5) Slightly adjust the water speed, as needed. To change the water speeds, use either
the SLOW or FAST buttons until you reach your desired speed. (Remember to

allow approximately 30 seconds for the SwimEx to reach the desired speed.)
6) Start swimming against the current and pace yourself to stay in a stationary
position.
7) Keep your head over the arrow's cross (located on the SwimEx’s floor); this will
keep you in the ideal swimming location. When swimming on your back, use an
overhead mark to keep yourself in the ideal swimming location.
8) Do not allow anything to obstruct the front or rear grates.
9) To stop swimming, walk or swim up to the swimmer's control panel and depress the
STOP button. This will stop the paddlewheel. The rear shut-off tube can also be
used to stop the paddlewheel.
10)Exit the SwimEx using the ladder or stairs.
11)Replace the floating thermal blanket, or other suitable cover.

VARIATIONS
Various swimming aids may be used in the SwimEx to enhance training, or for variation.
Among the items available are:
* Kickboards * Hand paddles/swim mitts
* Mask, fins, snorkel * Flotation vests/Aquajogger
* "Pull" buoys/boards * Life Line (Rope)
NOTE: Do not let these aids get pulled into the rear grate. This may cause severe damage
to the paddlewheel drive system. After you are done using these swimming aids, store them
outside of the swim area.
MAINTENANCE
DAILY:
* Check/Test water quality, adjust as needed.
(See Section 6.0)
* Local water conditions, usage, temperature, evaporation rate and other factors must
be taken into consideration when planning and maintaining your water quality control.
See your local water chemical supplier for information. It is best to take a sample of
your pool water with you for accurate analysis and local professional advice.
Remember that the SwimEx holds approximately 2,600 gallons of water (3,200 gallons
for Models SX480S & SX600S), therefore, requiring only small amounts of chemicals,
if needed.
* Check/adjust water level.
5 HP SwimEx: 1/4" above front inside wall
7.5 HP SwimEx: 1/2" above front inside wall
* Check skimmer for any objects.
* Check water temperature; adjust heater thermostat if needed.

WEEKLY:
* "Bleed" the filter (release the air- please refer to Manufacturer's Manual). For heavy use,
bleed the filter daily.
* Check the hair catcher, which is located just before the filter pump, for any objects, and
remove if needed.
* Clean the sides of the SwimEx at the water line (scum line). We recommend wiping the
side walls with a clean, wet towel/rag, at least once a week or as needed.
* Check to make sure all electrical equipment is functioning properly: i.e. Ozonator,
heater, etc. (See Manufacturer's Manual)
MONTHLY:
* Check filtration pressure. (Refer to Manufacturer's Manual)
* Clean filter cartridge. (See Manufacturer's Manual)
Light use: Every 3-4 months
Medium use: Every 2-3 months
Heavy use: Weekly or as needed
NOTE: Use the following as a guide for usage rates.
Light use: 0-2 hours of daily operation/3-4 x week.
Medium use: 2-4 hours of daily operation.
Heavy use: Over 4 hours of daily operation.
* Check all electrical connections, all ground wire connections, and test all circuit
breakers for proper function.
YEARLY:
* Replace filter cartridge (See Manufacturer's Manual). Check manual for size. Most local
pool stores carry replacement filters, or you can call the SwimEx Customer Service
Department. For heavy use, replace filter often, as needed.
* Clean out the air vent holes on the filter pump motor (use a vacuum or a blow unit using
compressed air- See the Manual).