ThermoSpas Designer Series User manual

ThermoSpas®
Designer Series Owner’s Manual
Safety, Maintenance and Technical Information

Welcome To ThermoSpas
Congratulations! You are now the ofcial owner of the nest spa built. All of us at ThermoSpas
are looking forward to enjoying a relationship with you that will last for many years to come.
As you get to know your spa, you will quickly discover why ThermoSpas is the fastest growing
spa manufacturer in the country. You have made the right decision in choosing ThermoSpas.
We’re betting our reputation on it. A reputation built on the foundation of our many strengths:
Our Credentials
ThermoSpas has been manufacturing spas since 1983. We strive to stay on the cutting edge of
spa design and maintenance technology. We are constantly looking for ways to bring our cus-
tomers the latest features and products designed to enhance the enjoyment and therapeutic
value of our spas. We are a member of the prestigious Association of Pool and Spa Professionals
(APSP). One of the APSP’s primary goals is, “To contribute to the health, safety, and welfare of
the public in the installation, maintenance, and operation of swimming pools and spas.” Our best
credentials come from thousands of satised ThermoSpas owners who write and call us every
day to tell us how happy they are with their spa and what a positive difference it has made in their
lives.
Our Quality
ThermoSpas’ emphasis on quality will become crystal clear with each passing day you own your
spa. We make our spas from only the highest quality materials, inside and out. Your spa was test-
ed with hot water to meet our quality assurance standards.
Our Customer Service
Our Customer Care Department is staffed by trained representatives who really care about help-
ing you. They are knowledgeable in every facet of spa maintenance. And they are available to
answer your call Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 6 :00 pm and Saturday 9:00 am - 1:00 pm, Eastern
Time. The Technical Service Department is open Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm and Satur-
day 9:00 am - 1:00 pm, Eastern Time to answer any of your technical questions or needs.
Your Responsibility To Your Spa
Now that we’ve told you about our priorities in providing you with an exceptional product and
on-going support, we urge you to read through this manual completely. This manual, along with
the information previously supplied in the Welcome Kit will familiarize you with the simple opera-
tion and maintenance of your spa (which will become second nature to you in no time). Most im-
portantly, it will help you keep your spa running smoothly and in tip-top condition for many years
to come.
Have Fun and Enjoy!
Welcome to ThermoSpas

Table of Contents
Read and Follow These Important Instructions .................................................1
Proper Use and Installation..................................................................................1
Safety In and Around Your Spa .................................................................................................... 1
Spa Safety Literature .................................................................................................................... 4
Entrapment Risk ........................................................................................................................... 4
Be Aware of the Risk of Fatal Hyperthermia ................................................................................. 5
Choosing A Location.............................................................................................6
Outdoor Location .......................................................................................................................... 6
Indoor Location ............................................................................................................................. 7
Electrical Set Up ....................................................................................................9
The Safe Electrical Hook-up of Your Spa ..................................................................................... 9
Electrical Service Requirements................................................................................................... 9
Spa Start Up.........................................................................................................12
Spa Diagram.........................................................................................................16
Equipment Diagram.............................................................................................17
Topside Control Panel.........................................................................................18
Main Control Panel ..................................................................................................................... 18
Auxiliary Pump Control Panel ..................................................................................................... 19
Wave Lounge Pump and Valve Control Panel............................................................................ 19
Operating Instructions........................................................................................20
Setting the Temperature ............................................................................................................. 20
Circulation Pump ....................................................................................................................... 20
Jets Pump 1................................................................................................................................ 20
Jets Pump 2................................................................................................................................ 20
Jets Pump 3 to 5 (If equipped) ................................................................................................... 21
How To Contact Us
Ofce .........................................800.876.0158
Fax ...........................................203.303.0029
Customer Care Department .......................800.876.0158, option 2
Technical Service Department .....................800.876.0158, option 2
Address .......................................ThermoSpas • 10 Research Parkway
Suite 300 • Wallingford, CT • 06492
Website .......................................www.ThermoSpas.com
Table of Contents

Wave Lounge Pump and Valve Control (Park Ave Diamond model) .......................................... 21
Blower (Gold, Platinum and Diamond Models)........................................................................... 21
Control Valves ............................................................................................................................ 21
Jets ............................................................................................................................................. 22
Lights .......................................................................................................................................... 23
Programming Instructions..................................................................................24
Programming the Time ............................................................................................................... 24
Standard Mode ........................................................................................................................... 24
Economy Mode........................................................................................................................... 24
Standard-In-Economy Mode....................................................................................................... 25
Sleep Mode ................................................................................................................................ 25
Standby Mode ............................................................................................................................ 25
Economy Mode Heating Cycles ................................................................................................. 25
O3 Ozone ................................................................................................................................... 26
Invert........................................................................................................................................... 26
Panel Lock/Unlock (PL) .............................................................................................................. 26
Temperature Lock/Unlock (TL) ................................................................................................... 27
Programming Fahrenheit or Celsius ........................................................................................... 27
Programming the Time in a 12-hour or 24-hour Format ............................................................. 27
Automatic Functions...........................................................................................28
Clean-up Cycle ........................................................................................................................... 28
Purge Cycle ................................................................................................................................ 28
Freeze Protection ....................................................................................................................... 28
Circulation Pump ....................................................................................................................... 28
Power-Up Sequence .................................................................................................................. 28
Basic Spa Maintenance.......................................................................................29
Changing/Cleaning Filters..................................................................................31
Cleaning The Filter ..................................................................................................................... 31
Spas with ThermOzone.......................................................................................34
Components ............................................................................................................................... 34
Operation .................................................................................................................................... 34
Chemical Usage ......................................................................................................................... 34
Drain and Rell ....................................................................................................35
Cleaning the Cover..............................................................................................36
Flushing Lines .....................................................................................................36
Shell Surface Cleaning........................................................................................37
Winterizing (Closing Your Spa) ..........................................................................38

Components.........................................................................................................39
Water Pump................................................................................................................................ 39
Circulation/Filtration Pump ......................................................................................................... 39
Air Pump (Blower) ...................................................................................................................... 39
Spa Pack and Heater ................................................................................................................. 40
Grab Bar Light Assembly (Concord and Park Avenue Series) ................................................... 40
Spa Light Assembly .................................................................................................................... 40
Common Diagnostic Messages .........................................................................41
Common Reminder Messages ...........................................................................42
Troubleshooting - Water Chemistry...................................................................43
Troubleshooting - Mechanical Systems............................................................44
Water Chemistry Maintenance ...........................................................................46
Glossary ...............................................................................................................47
F.A.Q.s ..................................................................................................................52
Floor Load Determination...................................................................................55
Electrical Requirements Chart ...........................................................................56
Spa Measurements Chart ...................................................................................57
Water Capacity Chart ..........................................................................................58

1
Read and Follow These Important Instructions
When using the electrical equipment, basic safety precautions should always be followed. A
green colored terminal marked G, GR, Ground, Grounding or the Symbol is located inside
the supply terminal box or compartment. To reduce the risk of electric shock, this terminal must
be connected to the grounding means provided in the electric supply service panel with a con-
tinuous copper wire equivalent in size to the circuit conductors supplying this equipment. At least
two lugs marked “BONDING LUGS” are provided on the external service or on the inside of
the supply terminal box or compartment. To reduce the risk of electric shock, connect the local
common bonding grid in the area of the spa or spa to these terminals with an insulated or bare
copper conductor not smaller than No. 6 AWG. All eld-installed metal components such as rails,
ladders, drains, or other similar hardware within three meters of the spa or spa shall be bonded
to the equipment grounding bus with copper conductors not smaller than No. 6 AWG.
Proper Use and Installation
ThermoSpas has made every effort to provide you with a safe and reliable product. The detailed
instructions provided previous to, and with the receipt of, your spa will explain how to safely in-
stall, operate and maintain your spa. Safety in using a spa ultimately lays with you the customer.
There is no substitute for the use of good judgment and common sense when it comes to safety
in and around your spa.
Safety In and Around Your Spa
READ AND FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY!
!DANGER: RISK OF SEVERE INJURY OR DROWNING!
• Extreme caution must be exercised to prevent unauthorized access by children.
• To avoid accidents, ensure that children do not use this spa unless supervised at all times.
Adult supervision is a critical safety factor in preventing children from drowning.
• Use the straps and clip tie downs to secure the spa cover when not in use. This will help
discourage unsupervised children from entering the spa. Keep the spa cover secure in high-
wind conditions.
• There is no representation that the cover, clip tie-downs, or actual locks will prevent access to
the spa.
!DANGER: RISK OF SEVERE INJURY OR DROWNING!
• Keep hair, loose articles of clothing or hanging jewelry away from suction ttings, rotating jets
or other moving components to avoid entrapment that could lead to drowning or severe injury.
• Never use the spa unless all suction guards, lter, lter lid, or skimmer assembly are installed
to prevent body and/or hair entrapment.
• Never operate or use the spa if the lter, lter lid, or skimmer assembly are broken or any part
of the skimmer assembly is missing. Please contact your dealer or nearest service center for
service.
• The suction ttings and suction covers in this spa are sized to match the specic water ow
created by the pump(s). If it is necessary to replace the suction ttings, suction covers or
pump(s), be sure that the ow rates are compatible and are in compliance with the VGB
Safety Act.
• Never replace a suction tting or suction cover with one rated less than the ow rate marked
on the original suction tting. Using improper suction ttings or suction covers can create a
body or hair suction entrapment hazard that may lead to drowning or severe injury.
Safety Requirements

2
!DANGER: RISK OF SEVERE INJURY FROM ELECTRIC SHOCK OR
DEATH FROM ELECTROCUTION!
• Install the spa at least 5 feet (1.5m), from all metal surfaces. As an alternative, a spa may
be installed within 5 feet of metal surfaces if each metal surface is permanently connected
(bonded) by a minimum No. 8 AWG (8.4 mm²) solid copper conductor attached to the wire
connector on the grounding lug, inside the equipment compartment on the equipment box.
• A grounding wire connector is provided on this unit to connect a minimum No. 8 AWG
(8.4 mm²) solid copper conductor between this unit and any metal equipment, metal enclosures
of electrical equipment, metal water pipe, or conduit within 5 feet (1.5m) of the unit.
• Never permit any electrical appliance, such as a light, telephone, radio, television, etc. within
5 feet (1.5m) of a spa unless such appliances are built-in by the manufacturer.
• Never bring any electrical appliances into or near the spa.
• Never operate any electrical appliances from inside the spa or when you are wet.
• 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
Electrical Code/USA, ANSI/NFPA 70. The disconnecting means must be readily accessible
and visible to the spa occupant but installed at least 5 feet (1.5m), from the spa.
• The electrical circuit supplied for the spa must include a suitable ground fault circuit interrupter
(GFCI) as required by NEC Article 680-42.
!WARNING: RISK OF SEVERE INJURY OR DEATH!
• Extreme caution must be exercised to prevent diving or jumping into the spa or slipping and
falling, which could result in unconsciousness, drowning, or serious injury. Remember that wet
surfaces can be very slippery.
• Never stand, walk or sit on the top railing of the spa.
!WARNING: RISK OF HYPERTHERMIA (OVER-HEATING) CAUSING
SEVERE INJURY, BURNS, WELTS OR DEATH!
• Water temperature in excess of 104°F (40°C) may be injurious to your health.
• Refer to the Hyperthermia for specic causes and symptoms of this condition.
• The water in the spa should never exceed 104°F (40°C). Water temperatures between 100°F
(38°C) and 104°F (40°C) are considered safe for a healthy adult.
• Lower water temperatures are recommended for young children (children are especially
sensitive to hot water) and when spa use may exceed 10 minutes.
• The Consumer Products Safety Commission/USA has stated that the water temperature in a
spa should not exceed 104°F (40°C).
• Always test the spa water temperature before entering the spa. The user should measure the
water temperature with an accurate thermometer since the tolerance of water temperature-
regulating devices may vary as much as +/- 5°F (2°C).
!WARNING: RISK OF SEVERE INJURY OR DEATH!
• Since excessive water temperatures have a high potential for causing fetal damage during
the early months of pregnancy, if pregnant or possibly pregnant, consult your physician before
using a spa.
• Pregnant or possibly pregnant women should limit spa water temperatures to 100°F (38°C).
• Persons suffering from obesity or a medical history of heart disease, low or high blood
pressure, circulatory system problems, diabetes, infectious diseases or immune deciency
syndromes should consult a physician before using a spa.
• If you experience breathing difculties in association with using or operating your spa,
discontinue use and consult your physician.
Safety Requirements

3
• Persons using medication should consult a physician before using a spa since some
medication may induce drowsiness, while other medication may affect heart rate, blood
pressure, and circulation.
• Persons suffering from any condition requiring medical treatment, the elderly, or infants should
consult with a physician before using a spa.
• The use of alcohol, drugs, or medication before or during spa use may lead to
unconsciousness with the possibility of drowning.
!WARNING: RISK OF SEVERE INJURY OR DEATH!
• Prolonged immersion in a spa may be injurious to your health.
• Observe a reasonable time limit when using the spa. Exposures at higher temperatures can
cause high body temperature (over-heating). Symptoms may include dizziness, nausea,
fainting, drowsiness, and reduced awareness. These effects could possibly result in drowning
or serious injury.
• Never use a spa immediately following strenuous exercise. Enter and exit the spa slowly. Wet
surfaces can be slippery.
!WARNING: TO DECREASE RISK OF INFECTION OR DISEASE!
• To reduce the risk of contracting a waterborne illness (e.g. an infection, bacteria or virus) and/
or respiratory ailments, maintain water chemistry within the parameters listed on the inside
cover of this manual and consult with a licensed engineer regarding proper ventilation if
installed indoors or in an enclosed area.
• People with infectious diseases should not use a spa to avoid water contamination, which
could result in spreading infections to others.
• Always shower before and after using your spa. Maintain water chemistry in accordance with
manufacturer’s instructions. Failure to do so may result in contracting a waterborne illness
(e.g. an infection, bacteria or virus).
!WARNING: In addition to maintenance of lters and water chemistry, proper ventilation
is recommended to reduce the risk of contracting a waterborne illness (e.g. an infection,
bacteria or virus) and/or respiratory ailments that could be present in the air or water.
Consult a licensed architect or building contractor to determine your specic needs if
installing your spa indoors.
CAUTION: TO DECREASE RISK OF PRODUCT DAMAGE.
• Maintain water chemistry in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
• Proper chemical maintenance of spa water is necessary to maintain safe water and prevent
possible damage to spa components.
!WARNING: RISK OF SEVERE INJURY OR DEATH!
The appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical,
sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience or knowledge, unless they have been
given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for
their safety.
NOTE: This spa is not intended nor designed to be used in a commercial or public application.
The spa buyer shall determine whether there are any code restrictions on the use or installation
of this spa since local code requirements vary from one locality to another.
Safety Requirements

4
Spa Safety Literature
To ensure you have a safe and enjoyable spa experience, learn all you can about spa safety and
emergency procedures. Especially useful are the brochures listed below:
• Children Aren’t Waterproof
• Pool and Spa Emergency Procedures For Infants and Children
• Layers of Protection
• The Sensible Way to Enjoy Your Spa or Spa
The Association of Pool and Spa Professionals publishes these brochures. To acquire a bro-
chure:
• Go to http://apsp.org
• Conduct your own search on the Internet
• Write to the following address:
The Association of Pool and Spa Professionals
2111 Eisenhower Avenue
Alexandria VA 22314
703.838.0083
Entrapment Risk
The Consumer Products Safety Commission/USA has reported that users of pools and spas
have become entrapped (stuck) to drain and/or suction ttings causing death, drowning, or seri-
ous injury (see diagram below). This spa was manufactured to meet the standards and specica-
tions outlined in the “Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act” (VGB Safety Act). Entrap-
ment risk can be minimized if proper precautions are taken.
NOTE: SUCTION COVERS MUST BE REPLACED EVERY FIVE YEARS.
!DANGER: RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH!
Never operate the spa if a suction tting, suction cover, lter, lter lid or skimmer assembly are
broken, damaged or missing.
!DANGER: RISK OF SEVERE INJURY OR DROWNING!
Hair entrapment: May occur if hair is entangled, knotted or snagged in a drain suction or skim-
mer assembly. This has been reported in persons who when submerge themselves underwater,
allowing hair to come close and/or within the reach of the suction ttings, suction covers or skim-
mer assembly.
• Keep hair away from suction ttings, suction covers, lter, lter lid or skimmer assembly.
• Children are at risk for hair entrapment if swimming under water.
• Never allow children to play or get near the suction ttings, suction covers, lter, lter lid or
skimmer assembly.
Suction Covers
Skimmer Covers
Skimmer location and ap-
pearance may vary from
one shown
Safety Requirements

5
!DANGER: RISK OF SEVERE INJURY OR DROWNING!
Limb entrapment: May occur when a limb becomes entrapped, inserted or sucked into a suction
or outlet opening.
• Always keep suction ttings, suction covers, lter, lter lid or skimmer assembly in place when
operating to avoid limb entrapment.
• Never allow children to play or get near the suction ttings, suction covers, lter, lter lid or
skimmer assembly.
!DANGER: RISK OF SEVERE INJURY OR DROWNING!
Body entrapment: May occur when part of the torso becomes entrapped, inserted or sucked
into a suction or outlet opening.
• Never allow children to play or get near the suction ttings, suction covers, lter, lter lid or
skimmer assembly.
!DANGER: RISK OF SEVERE INJURY OR DROWNING!
Evisceration (disembowelment) entrapment: May occur when the buttocks becomes en-
trapped, inserted or sucked into a suction or outlet opening.
• Never sit on suction ttings, suction covers, lter, lter lid or skimmer assembly.
• Never allow children to play or get near the suction ttings, suction covers, lter, lter lid or
skimmer assembly.
!DANGER: RISK OF SEVERE INJURY OR DROWNING!
Mechanical entrapment: May occur when jewelry, swimsuit, or hair accessories become entan-
gled, knotted or snagged in a drain suction or skimmer assembly.
• Never allow your jewelry, swimsuit, or hair accessories to come close to the suction ttings,
suction covers or skimmer assembly.
• Never allow children to play or get near the suction ttings, suction covers, lter, lter lid or
skimmer assembly.
Be Aware of the Risk of Fatal Hyperthermia
The use of alcohol, drugs, or medications can greatly increase the risk of fatal hyperthermia.
Hyperthermia occurs when the internal body temperature reaches a level several degrees above
normal body temperature (98.6ºF). The symptoms of hyperthermia include dizziness, fainting,
drowsiness, lethargy, and an increase in the body’s internal temperature.
The effects of hyperthermia include:
• Failure to perceive heat
• Physical inability to exit the spa
• Unconsciousness and danger of drowning
• Failure to recognize impending hazard
• Failure to recognize the need to exit the spa
• Fetal damage in pregnant women
Safety Requirements

6
Choosing A Location
IMPORTANT: Because of the combined weight of the spa, water and users, it is extremely
important that the base upon which the spa rests be smooth, at, level and capable of uniformly
supporting this weight, without shifting or settling, for the entire time the spa is in place. If the spa
is placed on a surface which does not meet these requirements, damage to the skirt and/or the
spa shell may result. Damage caused by improper support is not covered under warranty. It is the
responsibility of the spa owner to assure the integrity of the support over time. We recommend a
poured, reinforced concrete slab with a minimum thickness of 4 inches (10 cm). Wood decking is
also acceptable provided it is constructed so that it meets the requirements outlined above.
Note: This spa is not intended nor designed to be used in a commercial or public application.
Use of this spa in public or commercial application will VOID the warranty. The spa buyer shall
determine whether there are any code restrictions on the use or installation of this spa since local
code requirements vary from one locality to another.
Site preparation, alterations to home owner’s property and permits (if any) are the sole responsi-
bility of the owner. ThermoSpas spas are not intended for commercial applications.
WARNING: For spas that are to rest on balconies, roofs or other platforms not specif-
ically tied into main structural support, consult a professional Structural Engineer with
experience in this type of application.
The spa must be installed in such a manner as to provide drainage away from it. Placing the spa
in a depression without provisions for proper drainage could allow rain, overow and other casual
water to ood the equipment and create a wet condition in which it would sit in. For spas which
will be recessed into a oor or deck, install so as to permit access to the equipment, either from
above or below, for servicing. Make certain that there are no obstructions which would prevent
removal of all side cabinet panels and access to the jets components, especially on the side with
the equipment bay.
CAUTION: If the spa is indoors or located in an enclosed area, proper ventilation should
be discussed with an Engineer or authority competent enough to understand the nec-
essary provisions needed to vent moist or heated air and air associated with chemical
odors outdoors. When the spa is in use considerable amounts of moisture will
escape potentially causing mold and mildew. This can cause health risk. Over time,
this can damage certain surfaces, surroundings, and equipment.
Outdoor Location
In selecting the ideal outdoor location for your spa, we suggest that you take into consideration
the following:
• The proximity to changing area and shelter (especially in regions subject to cold weather).
• The pathway to and from your spa (this should be free of debris so that dirt and leaves are not
easily tracked into the spa).
• The closeness to trees and shrubbery (remember that leaves and birds could create extra
work in keeping the spa clean).
• A sheltered environment (less wind and weather exposure can result in lowered operation and
maintenance costs).
• The overall enhancement of your environment. It is preferable not to place the spa under an
unguttered roof overhang since run-off water will shorten the life expectancy of the spa cover.
• For spas that are to rest on balconies, roofs or other platforms not specically tied into main
structural support, consult a professional Structural Engineer with experience in this type of
application.
!
!
Choosing a Location

7
• In the unlikely event that you should ever need to access or gain entry to any portion of the
spa for servicing, it is highly recommended that you plan your outdoor installation to provide
full access to the entire spa. Please take this into consideration when placing the spa in a
deck or enclosed by a surrounding.
• Consider locating your spa away from any reective surface or glass to prevent any damage
to the synthetic skirt.
• Do not shim the spa. To ensure proper support the spa must sit at on the intended
foundation.
• Floor load capacity must be a minimum of 100 lbs. per square foot and must meet your local
building codes. Swim spas and spas over 39" in depth require higher load capacity. Reference
page 55 for information.
• Spa can not be installed on asphalt, laid in dead sand or on stone dust.
• Spa can not be placed directly on a gravel or lawn surface.
• Delivery crew is not equipped to level and/or repair spa sites.
• Most spa servicing is performed on the spa equipment that is located behind the side cabinet
panels of the spa. It is important to install the spa to allow easy access to the spa equipment.
We recommend an 18" minimum clearance around all sides of the spa to avoid additional
service charges. Providing service access is the responsibility of the owner.
• !WARNING: Do not rest your spa directly on top of a power line. Electrical shock or power
failure may result. The power line to the spa should be routed to come up through the bottom
of the spa cabinet or through the side wall by drilling a hole.
Indoor Location
For indoor installations many factors need to be considered before installing a spa indoors:
WARNING: In addition to maintenance of lters and water chemistry, proper ventilation
is recommended to reduce the risk of contracting a waterborne illness (e.g. an infection,
bacteria or virus) and/or respiratory ailments that could be present in the air or water.
Consult a licensed architect or building contractor to determine your specic needs if
installing your spa indoors.
• PROPER FOUNDATION: Consult a Structural Engineer when considering a foundation
that will adequately support the spa the entire time it is in place. Proper support is
critical especially if the spa is to rest on a second story or higher. For spas that are to rest on
balconies, roofs or other platforms not specically tied into the main structural support, you
should consult a professional Structural Engineer with experience in this type of application.
• PROPER DRAINAGE: It is extremely important to have in place measures to sufciently
handle excessive water spillage. Be sure the ooring in which the spa rests on has
adequate drainage and can handle draining of the entire contents of the spa. Be sure to make
provisions for ceilings or any other structures that may be below the spas installation. Areas
around your spa can become wet or moist so all ooring and subsequent furniture, walls and
adjacent structures should be able to withstand or resist water and moisture.
• PROPER VENTILATION: Proper ventilation should be discussed with an Engineer or
authority competent enough to understand the necessary provisions needed to vent
moist or heated air and air associated with chemical odors outdoors. When the spa is in
use considerable amounts of moisture will escape potentially causing mold and mildew, over
time this can damage certain surfaces and or surroundings.
• SUFFICIENT ACCESS: In the unlikely event that you should ever need to access or gain
entry to any portion of the spa for servicing, it is highly recommended that you plan your
indoor installation to provide full access to the entire spa.
!
Choosing a Location

8
• WARRANTY: Damage caused by not following these guidelines or any improper installation
not in accordance with local codes or authorities is not covered under the spas warranty.
Please consult your local state or city building ordinances.
• DO NOT SHIM THE Spa: To ensure proper support the spa must sit at on the intended
foundation.
• Spas installed indoors must be placed on a non-porous surface with a drain.
• Do not put the spa on a carpet or hardwood oors due to possible splash out from the tub.
Water will accumulate around the spa, so ooring materials must provide a good grip when
wet. Water damage to the home owner’s property from splashing or leaks are at the home
owner’s risk. This is not covered under any ThermoSpas warranty.
• Adequate ventilation must be provided in order to allow for chemical fumes to escape. Take
into consideration that these fumes could enter other indoor areas.
• When the spa is installed indoors, adequate room must be provided to allow the cover and
lifter to operate and function properly. Depending of the lifter used, up to 50% of the cover
is exposed. There should be sufcient room accounted for the spa height plus cover lifter
measurement, Figure 1.
• Consult your local state or city building ordinances to ensure installation is in accordance
with local codes. Any damage caused if you do not follow these guidelines voids the spa’s
warranty.
• Most spa servicing is performed on the spa equipment that is located behind the side cabinet
panels of the spa. It is important to install the spa to allow easy access to the spa equipment.
We recommend an 18" minimum clearance around all sides of the spa to avoid additional
service charges. Providing service access is the responsibility of the owner.
Spa
Height
Cover
Height
Figure 1
(Cover lifter and
spa can vary from
the one shown)
Choosing a Location

9
Electrical Set Up
Before beginning the wiring process turn off the circuit breaker so that no power
is connected to the controller. ThermoSpas recommends all spa wiring to be
done by a licensed electrician. Improper wiring may void your warranty. Incorrect
or incomplete wiring will very likely create a dangerous hazard. Performing a
conversion or any other modication to the original hardware or installation
conguration mandates that the owner assumes full responsibility for assuring
that the resulting system complies with all applicable national, state, and local
wiring codes and ordinances for the location of the unit. Be aware that there are
major differences in wiring codes if this unit is to be installed at any location other
than a private residence.
The Safe Electrical Hook-up of Your Spa
• The electrical installation of your spa must be done by a qualied electrician in accordance
with the National Electrical Code (NEC), and all local codes effective at the time of installation.
• Your spa must be installed on a dedicated electrical circuit. No other appliances or electrical
equipment may be used on this circuit.
!WARNING: If your spa is not installed in accordance with the NEC, it may create a danger-
ous safety hazard. Improper electrical installation may also damage the inner workings of a spa
and void your warranty.
!WARNING: If your electrician is not absolutely sure how to correctly connect your system,
call the ThermoSpas Technical Service Department at 800.876.0158, option 2. Mistakes may be
costly and will invalidate your equipment warranty.
Before beginning the wiring process turn off the circuit breaker so that no power is connected
to the controller. ThermoSpas recommends all spa wiring to be done by a licensed electrician.
Improper wiring may void your warranty.
Electrical Service Requirements
Before wiring for a spa, one of the rst considerations is whether or not your main service or
sub-panel feeding your spa has the capacity to provide sufcient power to your spa. A licensed
electrician will be able to perform a load calculation to determine this.
Select the inlet you want to use, drill a hole large enough for the wires on the skirt panel and
then feed the power cable through to the control box. To allow access you will have to trim/cut
the ThermoFoil blanket under the skirt. For access from underneath the spa, please contact the
Service Department for help (800.876.0158).
DANGER
Turn power off
before servicing. This
task should only be
performed by a quali-
fied technician.
!
RISK OF SHOCK OR
ELECTROCUTION!
RED
BLK
WHT
TB1
CONTROL BOX
General location
of the spa pack.
Location varies by
model.
Electrical Set Up

10
The electrical requirements for your spa are found on the Electrical Guide Sheet contained in the
Welcome Kit for your specic model. It is very important to review your electrical requirements
before starting installation.
Electrical Service Considerations
The Electrical Service determines how many pumps can run in conjunction with the heater. If the
dedicated GFCI circuit was installed with a smaller breaker than the recommended size (typically
60 amps), your heater will automatically shut off to avoid tripping your circuit breaker if too many
pumps are activated (including the blower). Heating will automatically turn back on after pumps
have been shut off. The heater will also automatically shut off on larger spas when 3 or more
pumps (including the blower) are turned on. All of this may occur even though the circulation
pump continues to run – when the heater is on, progressing bars will be indicated from the bot-
tom to the top of the heater icon.
!WARNING: Wiring to your spa must be COPPER ONLY! Note that the wiring from a main
panel to a sub-panel for the spa must be copper and the sub-panel is rated for copper (CU).
The length of the wiring from the panel or feed to your spa also has to be determined. If the total
run exceeds 75 feet, the wire size must be increased by one wire size to adjust for the corre-
sponding voltage drop. To make future service work easier we recommend leaving at least 6'
of slack in the main electrical wire which may be coiled inside the cabinet. Ground Fault Circuit
Interrupt (GFCI) Requirements: All spa electrical circuits must be GFCI protected on a dedicated
circuit.
It is common practice for electrical service for a spa to be supplied by a regular two-pole breaker
at the rated amperage at the main panel, and the disconnecting means (NEC Article 100) is usu-
ally a 125-amp sub-panel with the required GFCI breaker(s) mounted inside. The GFCI breaker
becomes the required disconnecting means. These sub-panels sometimes will not have a ground
bar included and it must be purchased separately. The ground bar is a small metal bar with holes
provided for ground wires and screws to secure the wires to the ground bar. This ground bar is
NOT to be bonded or connected to the neutral bar, and the neutral bar must be isolated from any
grounding source. The GFCI pigtail in this instance is connected into the neutral bar—not the
ground bar.
Electrical Set Up

11
NOTES:
1. NEUTRAL AND GROUND MUST BE ISOLATED AT THE SUB PANEL.
2. On Balboa TS Series Packs, ground wire must enter the pack through strain relief and attach
to ground bar on outside of pack.
3. Positions of electrical connections may vary by breaker manufacturer.
4. For specic breaker and wire size refer to page 56.
RED
BLK
WHT
TB1
Sub Panel at Spa
Main Panel
Neutral/Ground Bar
See NOTE 3
See NOTE 2
GFCI
Breaker
Spa Pac
Terminal block
inside of Pac
Breaker
Neutral Bar
Ground
Green
Ground
Green
* Load Neutral (white) must
connect to the GFCI break-
er at the Sub Panel NOT the
neutral bar
Load Neutral (White)*
White Pigtail
Wire
Isolated
Ground Bar
Ground Bar
on outside
of Pac
Red
Black
Red
Black
Neutral
(White)
Spa Pack Connections
RED
BLK
WHT
TB1
TB1
Black
White
Red
Green
External Power
RED
BLK
WHT
GROUNDING LUG
INSIDE THE
CONTROL BOX
To spa
circuit
Electrical Set Up
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupt (GFCI) Wiring Diagram

12
Spa Start Up
Please read through all steps before beginning. This section explains the necessary procedures
required to start up your spa. Familiarize yourself with this procedure prior to beginning the pro-
cess. Use this procedure as a guideline.
• Make sure you have any instructions along with the Welcome Kit and Chemical Starter Kit
prior to lling your spa.
• If your water is acidic, hard, or has a high mineral content it is recommended to contact one of
our trained Customer Care Representatives prior to lling your spa.
• Failure to follow these start-up instructions for your spa and observe the recommended
maintenance time periods may result in pump damage or require draining and relling the
spa.
Total start-up process time will vary from 3-24 hours based on the following variables:
1. Incoming water temperature and water pressure (ll rate)
2. Size and type of spa
3. Water characteristics (hardness, mineral content)
4. Desired nal water temperature
5. Ambient conditions
Inspect and Filling you spa
Once your spa is in its nal location it is time to inspect it to ensure it is ready to be lled. Gently
remove all packing and crating materials from the spa.
Step 1: Remove the panels/insulation of the spa so you can see the interior.
Step 2: Remove filters, the accessory bag and the spa chemical starter kit located inside the
spa shell.
Step 3: Wipe spa clean with a soft damp sponge. Be careful not to scratch the surface with any
particles that may have fallen into the tub.
Step 4: Make sure the “T” valves on each water pump are open by pulling them up as far as
they will go and locking them in the open position, page 39.
Step 5: Make sure all water pump and heater unions are tight, page 39.
Step 6: Make sure the drain valve is closed, page 39.
Step 7: Install the filter(s).
Spa Start Up

13
Step 9: Ensure your water source is safe for spa use. Water may contain minerals that may
cause stains or deposits. Water with a high mineral count, such as iron or copper, may
discolor the water once a sanitizer is added. If you have any doubt, visit http://online.
ThermoSpas.com or call our Customer Care department during our normal business
hours.
Note: In certain situations, if your water is extremely “hard,” it is preferable to ll half-way with
hard water and the rest of the way with softened water. Water that is too soft can be corrosive to
metal components.
Step 10: Let the water run out of your garden hose for several minutes before filling the spa. This
will flush out stagnant water in the line that may cause bacteria.
Note: We suggest putting a sock over the end of your hose to act as a strainer and protect the
spa shell acrylic from the hose.
Step 11: Begin filling your spa. The actual water level may vary depending on the bather load.
When there are no bathers in the spa, the water must be high enough to prevent pump
surge and low enough that when the recommended number of bathers are in the tub
that the water is not overflowing out of the spa. The recommended water level is half
way up the filter area with no bathers. While spa is filling periodically check underneath
to be sure unions are tight and not leaking.
Note: Unions are located on both the spa’s water pump(s) and heater. It is imperative that they
are checked and tightened before filling the spa. Although every spa is thoroughly tested twice in
our factory during final inspection, some connections may loosen during transport from the
factory to your home.
Initial Preparation
Step 1:Starting the spa with insufficient water can damage the pump and heater. Once your
spa is sufficiently filled (half way up the filter), turn the circuit breaker on.
Step 2: After turning on the circuit breaker, your spa will cycle through a series of self-diagnostic
codes as indicated on the topside control panel.
Step 3: Wait 5minutes so the spa can complete self-priming and diagnostic self-checks.
Step 4: If your topside control panel display shows the temperature, the temperature flashing or
“--”; this is normal. If any other codes are shown, refer to troubleshooting guide located
in the appendix or visit http://online.ThermoSpas.com and click on Customer Center for
more information.
Step 5: Activate the pumps to make sure they work and there are no leaks. Carefully inspect the
spa for any leaks by checking the hoses and plumbing connections. Check the unions
on the pumps and heater. If a leak is detected, stop the filling process and contact
ThermoSpas Service Department. If everything checks out proceed to step 6.
Note: The spa should be inspected periodically for leaks.
Step 6: Reinstall the panels.
Spa Start Up

14
Heat Water
Step 1: Set desired temperature by pressing the Warm ( ) or Cool ( ) button.
Step 2: Install insulated cover, close it over spa, and secure it with the lock down straps.
Step 3: Allow between 5 and 24 hours for the water to reach the desired temperature. A 240-volt
service will raise it approximately 4° to 8°F per hour.
DANGER: RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
Check water temperature carefully before entering hot tub! Excessive water tempera-
ture can cause burns, welts and body temperature to rise, hyperthermia (over-heating).
Prep Water: Maintaining Correct Water Chemistry and Safety
Improper use of spa chemicals may be dangerous and could damage your spa and its cover.
Since this damage is not covered by your warranty; it is extremely important to take precautions
when using these products. Only use chemicals and cleaning agents designed for spas. Damage
resulting from the use of non-recommended chemicals and/or cleaning agents is not covered
under the warranty. Following the procedures in this guide will make the maintenance and care of
your spa simple and economical.
Avoid using any biguanide or copper-based algaecide with your spa. Use of these products is not
recommended by ThermoSpas and may void your warranty.
CAUTION: RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY OR SPA DAMAGE!
Never add chlorine tablets (trichlor) or acid to your hot tub for any reason! These chem-
icals may damage components within your hot tub, burn or irritate your skin, create a
rash, and void the manufacturer warranty for your spa.
Proper Handling of Chemicals
1. Keep all chemicals out of reach of children.
2. Always keep lids on chemicals when not in use and store them in a cool, dry location away
from direct sunlight.
3. Do not store chemicals within the interior of the spa’s cabinet.
4. Do not interchange caps or measuring scoops for different types of chemicals.
5. Do not smoke around chemicals. Some can emit highly ammable fumes.
6. In case of contact or if a chemical is swallowed, call a doctor or local Poison Control Center.
If a doctor is required, bring the chemical container with you so the doctor can determine the
appropriate treatment.
7. Never mix chemicals or chemical solutions directly with each other.
8. Always add chemicals to water when mixing them. Never add water to chemicals.
9. When in doubt, call Customer Care.
WARNING: RISK OF POISONING OR DEATH.
Never leave chemicals opened and accessible to anyone. Use chemicals according to
the vendors instructions. Always store chemicals in a safe and/or locked location. Keep
away from and out of reach of children.
!
!
!
Spa Start Up