VITA-SPA LX, DX Spa INSTALLATION AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

ITA p

VITA-SPA Hy Vit;e In...n8tiQMI

~ /\

1-\...

A DIVISION OF

DM INDUSTRIES

INSTALLATION AND OPERATING

INSTRUCTIONS

Member

~

~.

National

Spa & Pool

Institute

THESE INSTRUCTIO,NS MUST GO TO THE

END USER OF THIS EQUIPMENT.

GENERALINfORMATION

AND

INSTALLATION Limit R-.t

IND!X

3.4

VOUR Air READV Switch. TO -DX USE. SERIES. """,

Button li~t Prote«ltion -L)( SERIES. , ; ...

Tim8Clock

1 4.3.1 WATER Chemical MAINTeNANcE. Priming/W.ter Treatment. MAINTENANCE. Prop8f' Filtration.

Water/Scale , ., , ...; ., , .,

Disinfection Method8

,

,

,

,

..;

,

7

, , , ,7

7

7

1

7

7

7

7

7

7

8

7

7

5

5

6

6

6

8

6

7

B8Ck Pock~

Back Pocket

.Back Pocket

"

11

11

12

12

'0 g

9

10

11

"

8

8

B

8

8

B

9

9 i ~ p.

2

2

1

1

2

3

3

2

3

..3

..4

..4

..4

1.1

1.

GENeRAL INFORMATION

REQUIRED INSTRUCTIONS U.L. No.1563

OWNERS MANUAL

FOR ALL U.L. LISTED VITA SPA

LX and DX SERIES SYSTEMS

READ AND FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS

BEFORE OPERATING THE SPA!

spa only). Should this cord fail to reach the service, it shall become necessary to have an electrician run a special No.12 wire, 20 ampere service to reach this power cord. Do not use an extension cordl To do so will cause the spa to operate improperly, and will damage the pump, blOWer and possibly other equipment Most important: THE USE OF

AN EXTENSION CORD WI LL VOID ~LL

WAR RANTI ESI

Connect only to a grounded, grounding type receptacle.

2.

A pressure wire connector is provided on the power box located inside the ~uipment access door, to permit connection of a bonding wire between this point and any metal equipment, metal encloSJre of electrical equipment, metal wat.er pipe or conduit within five feet of the spa as needed to comply with local requirements. Bonding wire must be at leaSt a

No.8 AWG 98.4 (2mm2) solid copper wire.

6

1.2

1.

DANGER. RISK OF ElECTAICAl SHOCK.

Install at least S feet (1.52m) from all metal surfaces. Do not permit any efectricaJ appliance such as a light, telephone, radio or television within S feet (1.52m) of a spa or hot tub.

SAFETY AND HEALTH INFORMATION

Always enter and exit spa slowly and cau tiously. Wet wrfaces will be slippery.

3.

4.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter: This equipmerit is provided with a Gfound Fault cireuit

Interrupter On the equipment pack inside the aeeess dOOr. After tf1e ~8 is filled and befOre use of your spa, with the plug connected to the power, push the "test" button on the ground fault interrupter , the power indicator light located under the GFCI should turn "off".

Push the "reset" button. When the "reset" bunon is pressed, the power indicator light should turn "on". If the interrupter fails to operate in this manner , there is a ground current flowing, indicating the poSsibility of an electrical shock. Disc:onnect the j)lug from the receptacle until the source .of the

6reakClown fl8S &een iaentified and corrected.

Installation: The spa must be installed in such a manner as to provide drainage of the compartment for electrical components. You need to pick a hard, flat and reasonably level

~rface. When properly installed, both skirt and tub will rest flat on the supporting

~rface. Failure to do this can cau~ the skirt to buckle or the tub to tilt and the side to distort. We recommend a poured concrete pad or similar hard surface.

2.

3.

4.

Never use a spa while under the influence of alCohol, anticoagulants, antihiStamines, v850constrictors, vasodilators, stimulants, hypnotics, narcotics or tranquilizers.

eecau. of the ever increasing popularity of hot tub$ and spas, more p~ple of every age are di~overing ttiis new, total relaxing, and therapeutic activity. Everyone's body and circulation sYSteM is different, ana responds to hot water immersion in different ways. For this reamn the amount of time spent safely in your "of tub or ~a will wry. MoSt peOpte in good health find the temperature 100°F to be rewarding and limit themselves to maks of between 10-20 minutes. Long exposure may result in nausea, dizziness or fainting. Before you use your hot tub or spa, it would be prudent to see your family dOCtor for recommendations regardless of your age, health, and medical history.

Pregnant women and persons ~ffering from heart disease, diabetes, high or low blood pressure should not enter the spa without prior medical consultation and permission from their doctor .

5.

SUpplying POWer to the Spa: After you have selected your level SUrl8Ce and have placed the spa in the position you desire. be SJre the power cord pro\fided will reach your grounding receptacle. The spa comes with a heavy duty cord ( No.12 wire) arid is designed to plug into a 120volt. 20 ampere, deaieBted circuit, (to the

5.

6.

Do not use the spa alone.

1

Unsupervised use by children ~Ould be proh ibited.

..

1.3.4 120 VOLT SYSTEM RESET

Tftis reset is a general system reset to protect the 120 volt components of your spa. It is identified 8S "Breaker" on the control panel and is marked. with a 1120" designating maximum amperage the reMt will hold. Sh9uld a

~oft Occ.JiI ffiis reset will automatically pop out. diSi:ontinuing eleCtrical power to 120 vOlt citQJitry. This reset muSt be manually reset once the problem has been resolved.

1.3.5 POWER INDICATOR LIGHT

This light located under the G.F.C.I. is ON when your spa is powered.

1.3.6 HIGH TeMpERATuRE LIMIT REseT

This heat reset button is loeated on tOp of the heater housing and is identified as "Heater

Reset". This button is designed to pop out in the event the water becomes too hot. If this occurs, the high limit re~t will disc:ontinue

POwer to the electrical heating element. This f~t buttOn MuSt 58 manually depressed to reset its funCtion. This can only be done when the water has cooled down to about 80°F for the reset to fiolo. The nigfi limit reset is designed to protect againSt overheating in the event the thermostat should fail to operate or in the unlikely event the heater should remain on without water flow.

iNStAllATtoN INSTRUcTIONS

2.1 LoCATiNG YOuR spA

Your spa dealer is your beSt r~rce for determing flOw DeSt to inStall your new

Spa, what power requirements are necesSary and what preliminary site preparation must be accomplished.

The spa must be installed in such a manner as to provide drainage away from the spa. Putting the spa in a depression could allow rain, overflow ot other casual water to flOOO the equ ipment and create a wet cond it ion f9r the spa to seat in.

The SJ)a needs a hard, flat and level surface to rest on. When properly installed, the bottom of the spa will fit flush with the alpporti~ surface. FAILURE TO PROviDe A FLAT

SURFACE WILL CAUSE THE SPA TO

DISTORT, COLLAPSE OR DAMAGE THE

SKIRTINGI we fecommend a poured eoncrete

SlJrface Ot similar hard s.jrlace.

Consider the following ~ggeStions when selecting the ideal area for yotJr Spa: a.

Aesthetics -Select a location that enhances the overall environment of your home.

1. Filter

2. Heater Re.t Li~t

3. Hi-Limit Reset

4. Spa Light

5. Heater

8. Push-PuII Gate Valve

7. Air Control Knob

3 4

S .J

\

\ .-1

-..~

~

I--

::::,;,.--\ .-

':

,

.--=:-:- , .\

-., ,- ~ ~-

I

, !

;

;

I

I

I

/

/

/-

.

~

~1

~.

\ i

-

.l~

[J

I ~

~

, \ ,

, t

, I \ .,

II 21 21

,

8. Control Panel

9. M81:Ntie Door Interlock

10. Power Supply Cord (120V .20A)

11. Dfainage Hose Bib

12. Ground Lug

13. Power Box

14. 20A Systel" Breaker

3

~..c:.;.

.

; 1 I

15. G.F.C.I.

16. Power Light

17. Pump

18. Magnetic Door Interlock

19. Control Enclosure

--

21. Air Blower

b.

c.

d.

local codes -check local codes pertaining to fences, gates ai\d electric prior to location of your spa.

Privacy and Wind Shielding -A sheltered environment with less wind and weather exposure can resu It in lowered operation and maintenance costs. Also consider view or non-view from the house, proximity to change area and a pathway to and from you r spa clear of debris and dirt so as not to track them into the spa.

Spa Maintenance -Consider the spa closeness to trees and shrubbery; leaves and birds could cfeate extra work in keeping your spa elean.

2.2 ELECTRICAL SERVICE

Spas equipped with LX or OX series equipment skid.packs can be installed with

120 or 240 volts. Note that 240 volt inStallation affects heater utilimion only.

Wired 120 volts. the heater draws 1.5 KW.

Connected with 240 volts. the heater draws

6.0 KW. All remaining electrical components

COntinue to operate on 120 volts protocted by the 20- amperes syStem reset. (SEE SEC-

TION 1.3.4).

In addition, your Spa has tfle unique design flexibility to be conveFted to either a

240. V, 30 A syStem or a 240 V, 50 A syStem.

The basic differenceS be~een tfle tflree electrical ~Stems are in the heater utilizitiori.

They are outlined as follows:

Supply Voltage

Supply Amerage

Heater -KW

Pump Low Speed -ON

Pump Jet (High) Speed -ON

Air Blower

Jet and Air Blower

-ON

-ON

All three syStems perform very well. System selection depends upon personal preference, household amperage availability and geographic location.

Note that although connecting any of the three systems is easy, there are very important differences in how each one is done. PLEASE,

FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY.

USE A QUALIFIED AND LICENSED ELEC-

TRICIAN FOR 240 VOLT INSTALLATION.

4

,ccccc,--c--

2.2.1 120 VOlT SYSTEM

120 Volt wired Portable Spas come with a 120 volt power cord. This cord contains heavy duty No.12 wire and is designed to be the ON L y cord connection between the spa and the power supply. NEVER use an extension cord to bring power to the sPa.-Extension cords create resistance and will caUE the spa equ ipment to operate on too low levels of voltage. This lower voltage will cause major damage to the electrical components in the spa and may void the warranty.

Use the supplied power cord to meaSJre the distance to your electrical outlet If the cord will not reaeh~ you muSt either move the spa or have an electrician run a dedi~ted 120 volt, 20 ampere service to an ~ptable proximity of the spa. .

Please check your power outlet before inStalling the spa. This~outlet must have a minimum of 120 volts and 20 amperes. In addition this pOWer ret.-eptacle muS! be a aeaieated ~fvice, meaning that no other outlets, appliiiiees or devices can share the .me circuit. Other appliances rOb tne circuit of the amperage check that the circuit is properly grounded and that the receptacle is properly OOnfi9tJred to accept the pOwer plug. {SEE SECTION

1.3.1 ). In IC)me areas, a ground faUlt interrupter may be required affnerecept8ble. Check yourlocal building codes. If you have any doubts, nave your circuit checked by a qualified and lic-ensed electriCian. Onee the electrical inspeetlon nas been coii'ipletea a~ any deficiency Corrected, you are ready to move on to section 3.1 "Getting your spa rudy to u~".

2.2.2 240 VOlT SYSTEM

YOUf Spa lX or DX serieS is deSigned to be easily Converted from 120 volts to 240 volts. Please review section 2.2.

REATER CONVERStON FROM 120 TO 240

VOl TS REQUIRES SPECIFIC WIRING

CHANGES THAT ~~N ~~ -~~ERf()RMEI)

ONL V By YOUR DEALeR OR LICENSED

ELECTRICIAN.

The following iRstfuetion5 are to be given to a licensed electrician for his use to run a 240 volt hard conduit service to your ~a:

1.

A DUAL COMMON TRIP (not two single) 30 or 50 amperes circuit br-ker must be installed at the household circuit bOx, depending upon the heater

2.

3.

utilization mode you Have selected.

This .rvice must be dedicated ar'td used only to power your spa.

Four wire$ are to be pulled:

Dual Circuit Breaker

2 Line voltage -Wire size No.

1 Ground -Wire Size No.

1 Neutral -Wire size No.

SYSTEM

JOA 50A

10 8

10 8

12 12

4.

5.

6.

7.

In no case should smaller than 10 gauge wire for 30A system or 8 gauge wire for

SOA system be used and only then when the distance from the breaker box to the equipment is less than 50 feet.

The power box is set-up to receive 314..

coOOuit and fittings.

Open power bOx. Make four wire connections to power terminal strip as per the inStructions on the box cover.

(SEE ILL BELOW) Make conversion wiring changes as per the instructions outlined in ..Heater Conversion

Instruction.', located in the back pocket of this manual.

Ground equipment to a permanent earth ground per applicable code.

ALL ELECTRICAL CONNECTION

MUST BE TO NEC (NATIONAL ELec-

TRIC CODE) AND TO ANY PERTINENT

LOCAL ELECTRIC CODE STAND-

ARDS.

I LL. NO.4

12OV -1M -8»tZ

L-.

N8Itr8

0,..-

~

ELECTRICAL

SERVICE:

ZOA.12OV

011-

.

12/3 F*

~-A1A-..Z

C.-

ELECTRICAL

SERVICE:

.100..

.'2

DUAL mA 8RUKIR

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

3.1 GeTTING YOUR SPA READY TO USE

With all electrical connections done you are now ready to fill-up your Spa.

Pleese go through the following steps:

5

STEP 1.

DO NOT PLUG in 120 volt PQWef' CQrd.

STEP 2.

STEP 3.

STEP 4,

STEP 5.

STEP 6.

STEP 1.

STEP 8.

are OFF.

Make aJre ALL electrical power to equipment is in the OFF positioli.

Make sure thermostat is rotated to the

OFF position.

Make 9.lre the two 1~'. gate vaives located at the Pump inlet and the heater outlet are in the OPEN position. Lift up on T handle. MAKE SURE ALL

JETS ARE OPEN (counter-clock wise}.

Make sure drain (hose-bib) valve Is tight Iy closed.

Using garden hose, fill ~a with water to 4" of top of spa -DO NOT permit water line to drop below 5" from top of spa at anytime.

Wait approximately 15 minutes and:

Inspect ~a water connections and perimeter for any leaks or puddles of water. If there are any leaks, call service for repair If the leak cannot be readily corrected, i.e.: connections, unions, etc.

3.2 STARTING YOUR SPA

STEP 1. Plug power cord into 120 volt power receptacle. Make sure breaker is ON for 120 v or 240 v systems.

STEP 2. Press "T" test bUtton on GFCI and then

"R" r~t buttdn to operate. Reoiiew section 1.3.2.

STEP 3. ox SERIES:

.Set timer for current time. select running time and set timet selector switcfi t6 ON position as explained in section 3.3.3.

.Close door. Spa will not function if the door is open.

.Push selection button to function #1, low speed pump. (See Section 3.3.1 )

LX SERIES: Press SYS button (SEE

SECTION 3.4 ..LX Feature and Functions"). Light will come on. Press jet but~ ton. let jet operate for one minute minimum. When the jets are noted to have steady stream the system is ready. If there is no jet flow after one minute, turn system off and repeat start-up proce.

dure. (SECTION 3.2).

STEP 4. OX SERIES: You have just put the timer selector switch to ON position. Low speed pump will remain constantly on .

Set thermostat to desired setting. (See section 3.3.2) Once spa has reached the desired temperature, set timer selector switch to center position for automatic timer control. (See section 3.3.3)

LX SERIES: Press SYS button off .Turn

thermostat counter clockwise to desired setting. Your spa will start to heat.

STEP 5. .Cover your spa and it will maintain the pre-set temperature continuously, 24 hours a day.

Initial heat up time will will vary depending on whether spa is configured 120 or

240 volts. Spas with covers will heat as follows:

120 Volt spas heat 2° -3° per hour with cover.

240 Volt spas heat 5° -8° per hour with cover.

STEP 6. Add spa water chemicals. (See Spa

Maintenance.).

3.3

FEATURES AND FUNCTIONS -DX SE-

RIES

3.3.1 FOUR FUNCTION AIR SWITCH

THERAPY CONTROL PANEL

3.3.2 THERMOSTAT SETTING

The thermostat is located on left side Qf the control Panel. Turn thermostat clockwise to desired setting. We recommend starting at

314 of knob rotation. Heater will turn on, and the spa will begin to heat. Heat indicator light located on Therapy Control Panel on when heater is on. (See Section 3.2 Step 4, 5 for initial heat up time.)

Check water temperature with a thermometer and adjust thermostat to desired temperature. Once you find the temperature you like best, identify its location on the panel.

The heater will turn on and off maintaining the desired temperature during programmed time.

FREEZE PROTECTION:

Freeze protection is provided by setting the thermostat at an adequate temperature level. IMPORTANT: Time Selector Switch must be set"QN" to provide freezer protection

(See Section 3:3.3).

3.3.3 TIME ClOCK

DX Series spas are equipped with a Therapy

Control Panel as shown above. Each depression of the Selection button ehanges the operation of the equipment in the following sequence:

1. Low Speed Pump: READY indieator light is ON if pump low speed is on and the heater is OFF. HEAT indicator light is

ON if heater is ON.

2. High Speed Pump (JET) and Blower:

JET and BLOWER indicator lights are

ON. On 220V installation only. HEAT indicator light is on when the heater is on.

3. High Speed Pump (JET): JET indicator is ON. On 220V installation only. HEAT indicator light is on when the heater is on.

4. Blower only: BLOWER indicator light is

ON.

Function 1 is controlled by the timer and the timer selector switch. (See section 3.3.3)

Functions 2, 3 and 4 can be accessed directly by depressing the Selection switch.

These functions are NOT affected by the timer operation.

LIGHT button turns the light ON and OFF.

ALWAYS sequence back the equipment to function 1 after spa use. The timer will turn the pump on and off at selected times. The heater will maintain the desired water temperature while the pump low speed is on.

6

The timer controls the pump low speed

ONL v: ALL OTHER spa functions are acces-sible regarding of timer selector switch position, and regardless of timer being on or off.

TIMER SELECTION SWITCH

OFF POSITION (UP): Low speed pump is permanently off.

TIMER CONTROL POSITION (CENTER):

Timer will start and stop pump low speed as selected.

ON POSITION (DOWN): Low speed pump is permanently ON. This position is used to initially heat the spa. or if the spa is going to be used on several occasions during an entire day.

SETTING TIMER a. Turn dial clockwise to set current time

(AM or PM) by lining up the time indicator arrow and the current corresponding time on the dial.

b. Each pin represents 15 minutes. Push pin toward center of dial to set desired running time.

TIMER OPERATION

ALWAYS sequence your spa back to function

No.1 (heater-low speed pump) after spa use.

Program timer 3 to 4 hours daily to maintain water flltratiQn and desired temperature. Set timer to come for one hour before and one hour after your intended use, plus two additional hours. For instance, in you intend to use your spa between 6 and 8 p.m., set timer between 5 and 6 p.m. and between 9 and 10 p.m. Additionally. set timer for one hour at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.

3.4 FEATURES AND FUNCTIONS -LX SERIES

3.4.1 SPA SIDE CONTROL

The spa side panel includes 4 ON/OFF buttons: SVS (low speed pump), JET (high speed pump), Acc #1 (blower). Acc .2 (light), an electronic thermostat and 2 indicator lights for SYSTEM and HEA TE R.

I L L. NO.6

-

SPA SIDE CONTROL

SYSTEM BUTTON :

This button controls all 4 ON/OFF buttons.

When it is off. the system light is OFF and none of the buttons will work.

It directly controls the low speed pump.

Whenever it is on, the pump will run continuously, even if it is in the thermostat control mode until turned OFF by the "-Automatic

Equipment Protection" function. (See Section

3.4.3) The System always resets off following a power outage.

JET BUTTON:

Turns the pump from low to high speed and back. For systems with 120 volt heaters, the heater will turn OFF whenever this button is pushed. On 240 volt -50A heated system, the heater will not be affected.

ACCESSORY #1 BUTTON;

Turns blower ON and OFF. This function interacts with heater the same way as the Jet button.

ACCESSORY #2 BUTTON:

Turns the light ON and OFF. It does hot interact with heater .

SYSTEM INDICATOR LIGHT

Indicates that the system button has been pushed and the system is under manual control.

ELECTRONIC THERMOsTAT

Controls the temperature of the spa. Set thermostat to desired setting and water temperature and filtration will be maintained.

Heater and low speed pump will. turn on as needed on both 12Ov or 240\1 systems.

FREEZE PROTECTION is provided by setting the thermostat at an adequate temperature level.

f'lEATER INDICATOR LIGHT

Indicates wtiefl me heater is ON regardless of pump mode or whether the pump is being operated manually, theJ'moSt8ticall'y or by the time clock. When the heater light is ON. the heater is ON, except if the Heater Reset

Indicator Light is OFF. (See Section 3.4.4.)

3.4.2 TIME DELAY FUNCTION

A time delay is provided to keep the pump running for 25 seconds after the heater is turned OF F. This allows the heater element to cool down before the water flow is StOpped.

3.4.3 AUTOMATIC EQUIPMENT PROTECTION

This function is electronically built-in and automatically turns Off all manually activated equipment inctuding the "SVS" funCtion after the system has been turned on for 30-45 minutes. This function protects your equipment from running too long and saves on electric bills.

7

3.4.4 HEATER RESET INDICATOR LIGHT

This if1dieator light is located on top of the heater housing, next to the Heater ReSet

Button. It is used in conjunction with the

"Heater IMieator Light" loCated on the Spa

Side Control (See 3.4.1) to trouble Sttoot heater operation. {See Trouble Shooting

Guide in the back pocket of this manual for further information.)

3.4.5 TIME CLOCK

SETTING TIMER a. Turn dial clockwise to correct time.

Turning dial counterclockwise wilt damage timer switching mechanism and void warranty.

b.

Each switch activator represents 15 minutes. Push switch activator toward center of dial to set desired running time.

"

The timer controls the pump low speed. Its sole function is to provide added filtration when needed. The thermostatically controlled water temperature is not affected by the timer. When the timer is ON, the pump low speed comes on, as well as the heater if needed. When the timer isOFF, the pump low speed and heater still turn ON and OFF to maintain the water at the desired temperature.

The timer provides only filtration time if the thermostat is turned all they way down.

The "SYS" button electronically overrides the timer. JuS! puSh "SYS", then " JET" or

"BLOWER" buttons to enjoy your spa.

ILL. NO.7

.~«.-" .

""p.~.'

"..~

TIME CLOCK LX

3.5 JET ACTION

JETS.

Spas are provided with 3 types of therapy jets.

ADJUSTABLE JETS. 3 to 5 per spa can be adjusted by turning the entire face of the jet counterclockwise to open and clockwise to close. The water stream is directional and massages one point of the body.

MINI~SAGE JETS, 2 to 3 per spa are not ad~ justable. Water stream has a swirling action which covers a 12.. area of the body.

DIVERTAJETS, 1 to 2 per spa open clockwise and close counterclockwise by turning the entire face of the jet. When on, divertajets channel 100% of the pump output, creating a whirlpOOl! turbo action which in turn provides a motion massage on your entire body or part of it, depending on how close to the jet stream you choose to be.

Jets are located at proper heights to provide soothing massage on various parts of your body. Adjust jets as needed, but never close them completely.

cAuTION: a.6SiNG coMPi.ETEi. y MoRE

THAN TWO JETS AT A TIME WILl RESTRICT

THE HEATER AND PUMP TO OVERHEAT.

Two air control knobs located next to your spa control panel control the amount of air intake

Into the jets. Jet pressure is at maximum level when air knob~ are open. O~e turn is-all that is ij~~ess~ tQ'",,-I!y-~~n- !5e-8!r- ~nti'Ol~: ~~ need to overtighten when closing. One air

8

BLOWER

Your spa is equipped with the most efficient air injection system in the industry. Individual air injectors are strategically located to provide maximum therapy. When the blower is on, the injector cap unique "Shower Head" design creates thousands of tiny air bubbles. These bubbles burst through the warm water following your body contour and providing you with an overall sOOth;~ ana relaxing massage.

SPA MAINTENANCE

4.1 GENERAL MAINTENANCE

4.1.1 EQUIPMENT

Is located under the wood skirt. The G.F.C.I.

should be tested before u~ of your spa. Any other servicing should be done by your dealer or other authorized peroonnel.

4.1.2 COVER

Is an optional item for use with your spa, but is essential for proper temperature control and efficient operation. We strongly r~mmend to use a cover.

4.1.3 CLEANING YOUR SPA

U~ a liquid cleaner that contains no abrasives, e.g., 409, Fantastic, Spa Gloss -DO NOT use a cleanser or hard brushes.

4.1.4. WINTERIZING

In areas of the country

Q where the temperature goes below 32 I follow these steps.

STEP 1. If the spa is not to be used, drain completely and store in garage if possible. (See 4.1.5)

STEP 2. If you are going to u~ the spa, keep

$pa warm on thermostat contrOl. DO

NOT TURN UNIT OFF or frozen water may burst plumbing. (See

SectiQ" 3.3.2 "Freeze prQtection" and

3.4.1)

4.1.5 DRAINING YOUR SPA

STEP 1. Unplug the spa.

p i\lt;I(:11

I, JI..,t,.,1

\"Iii

'J;jl\lt~11

IIIIJ..I l'II'I'ly IJV

IIO5H to y(~IIOW i I,t: i illl;1 Ij()llsirl!l.

110Se hilJ

Spa

~Irilvlt\i. ~;lfJIIOII out

!.,I!,i'i' yl'llr

, ;jl ~V,i!\::r. If VIlli

.,.'",1 I\JI I:I~ v'Jirll\~r, nr\; Jr(lining

!10 l() SlCI)~ 3

'1111 ..

"

1!\llil IliIJ(; I)V ltiscon-

! I! I. ' ~; Ilrliull:; 011 llle rt:tllrn illl(1 on tIll' rUll1r) line suction

I!\i'

IIi!! tij ,(, 1IIIIlII)

'JV:lrt'! rlhl\J rUlllrJ by

1'v1iJkc sure

:IO!tJ I iltcr

\;.ttl:r i ,IIIII)I["J .il!

ii llllIUIl';.

cartrilJ~Jt i,; I()ft. R('!-illstall inlioors and ovl:r tile spa.

tJ I'UMP pnIMIN(;/WI\TEr~ LEVEL

1.11!' wi1t!;r IJlimll is tile heart of yollr spa and it is f~ssef1tirtl

(l)rrf)r::Lly tllat

10 [Jrl:VCI-It the pump suriolls be

(jumage operated to your

(~(l!JipOI~rlt. yOtIr rtllll['

-rh(~lefore, illltl rlliiirrtain knowing the how rump to prime prime is

Ijijr', IlrIIJ(JI\;IIII, ill i) l.I\,l:;II'I(;II:'t;J l:.lll111) l)rill1irl!J

I)y the or cavitations

1orl11dtion of air

I)OI'kl!tS i.ll LIIP irllel uf tile puinr prl"Vents the rJIIOlp from pllshinIJ whicll water in turn through tile hei;lter.

I)tlrlll) or

Tl1is condition

111~;IIPr lissl~rnbly. can

Tllese rlama<Je the c:ir pockets url! folll)('lj Ij'/:

:1

Tral1l1C(j (lir ulJrirl!J initial filling. Refer to

I)rinlinu in~;trllctions. {Section 3.2)

~)I)a water level (Jrol1pinrJ too low. It is es~;I..nti;il th(lt wuter level he maintained il1 ;11)OIJt ,1" from illl~ tO~) of the sl1a. A low wfltlJr I(:vcl will cause the l1uml1 to sLIck uir throllUh the centl-.r of the filter cartriufJc.

Clo~I~Jl:il rill(~r -Tllis conuition will also

CijU51: tllf:! I)UmIJ to slJck uir through the centcr of thc filtf!r curtrill~Je. (See I'Filter.

MainterIJrlCe" Sf:!ction 4.2)

No water jet (](~tion or jet stream "Sputters" with a "crackling" noise indicate cavitation or li1ck of pllmp prime.

THESE CONDITIONS

':.:ORRECT[[) IMMI:DII\Tr=L v.

MUST BE

4.2 FILTER CAr~TRIDGE MI\IN1-ENI\NCE

Every Vita Spa is desi!Jne(1 with the most efficient top loadin\1 skimmer/filter system in

III(! if)(Juslry. I\ ~jO ';(I'lilr(~ f()()t (:ilrlri(I(J(~ filll'rs

1000;;, of the water un(jer both l)i~Jh and low speed functions.

F i Iter maintenance is the most critical factor in keeping your spa water clean. High

9 temperature ac(:elt~rates the release of body oils

;Ind ~Irease into tl)e water. Water flow through tllc filter causes susrJended particles and oils to ber;onlf:. triil1ped on ils fine polyester mesh surfa(:c. 13ODY OILS cAr\JNoT BE WASHED ofr \'1!I-rl-l r'\ GARDEN HOSE. OILS MUST

BE DISSOL Vl:D. This is easily done by lifting tile cartrid~le out of the housing and soaking it ov(~rniqllt il)to a 5-Ijallon pail of water with 1 cup of (lisl)wasllcr detergent (Cascade for instance). The cartridge must then be rinsed

TI--IOROUGI-IL Y and left to dry before using it again. A SIJare standby cartridge is an excellent investlnent. It provides convenience and assures that your filter will always be ready to operate at peak efficiency.

HOW OI=TEN: Frequency of filter cleaning depends upon water chem istry .spa u sage and spa location. Every 3 to 4 weeks may be sufficient. f-Iowever. your cartridge needs to be cleaned if the water level in the center of the cartrid~Je drops substantially in pump high speed. A clogged (:art ridge will cause air suction through the center of the cartridge and will cause the pump to cavitate. (See Section

4.1.6)

4.3 SPA WATER MAINTENANCE

4.3.1 CHEMICAL TREATMENT -Vs- FI L TRATION

WARNING!

NEVER USE ACID OR TRI-CHLOR THEY

RUIN ACRYLIC SPA FINI$H. If the PH level gets too high, simply empty the water and refill with fresh water.

The pleasure you derive from your spa is directly related to the quality of the wa,ter you have in it. There are two primary factors to consider in maintaining your spa and the quality of the water in it: one is chemical treatment, the other is proper filtration. Both are iml)Ortant.

A WELL MAINTAINED

'r'oU MAINTAIN yoUr{

FILTER HELPS

SPA: Berore you considcr chemical treatment of your spa, you have to consider your filter. Filters are necessrlry to rcmovc particles of oust, dirt, alqae, body oils, etc. that are continously entering the wuter. If your filter doesn't operate corrr'r.llv. fIr \f111fl r'1101If\11 (;It Ir';I'it1hOlIr'irl;lily)

UI Isii'l lllCIlllti.lllled IJruIJerly, tllen Il C(lllnul remove lhesc wustes from your spa. These

extra wastes put a burden on your chemicals causing exta expense you d'on't need.

Depending on spa usa~fe. clean your filler evcry 4 weeks. (SeIJ Set:lioll 4.2) Cilallye your sll.lw.ltl.rl.V(.lyHlIll0wl!l'ks.

KNOW THE AMOUNT OF WA-rER IN yoUr{

SPA: Refcr lu yuur Vila SpalJruclIure fur spa gallonage.

ALWAYS TEST THE WATER: Testing is the only way to make sure the water is safe and comfortable. Tap water that's safe to drink may not be right for your spa. Mineral and metal imbalances can shorten the life of your

Sl1a and equ ipment. I t is iml1OltDl1l llJDt you have an accurate test kit for chlorine and/or bromine, pH and total alkalinity. One that also tests for calcium hardness is even more helpful.

Make these tests daily until user load is established, and then several times weekly to be

\ sure proper levels are maintained. The regular use of your test kit will avoid costly guesswork and alert you to serious problems before they develop.

4.3.2

HOW TO TEST THE WATER: Water testing is done by filling the test kit with a sample of spa water, adding drops of test solutions, and noticing color changes.

The accuracy of chemical tests is critical. To avoid errors:

2.

3.

4

5.

6.

Run jets (without air} for a few minutes to mix water in the spa thoroughly before testing.

Rinse test block with spa water berore and after each test -never empty test block into the spa water after a test.

Take w()ter samples toward the center of the spa, at least twelve inches below the surface -do not take samples near the filter return lines.

To obtain proper size, hold the test solution bottles vertically add drops slowly.

Do not perform other tests when the free chlorine/bromine level is above average conduct tests only when level drops almost every test kit will bleach out and not give accurate readings.

Do not use fingers to cover the larger test cell; as chemicals on skin can affect resu Its.

10

7

8.

Read tests within 10 seconds after all test solu tions are added.

Make color comrarisons ill dayli(Jht. not urluer ilrtifit;ial liyllt. Colors are eiJsiest r!!iJd i,l tllc sh(J(j!!, facil)fJ away frorn the liullt SOllrc!!, rcadillq thf~ test lJlock agiJinst a Wllitc lJack~lroulId.

Store thc test I(it uWily rrol11 SUllli411t ull{1 hc"t.

Insure that test solutions are fresh; rCIJlace regularly.

Arlotller Si~Jiliric(Jnt fll(;tor is tile ratio of bather load to gallonage amJ the amount of contaminants put into the water from each bl1t1lcr. Sevcrl11 Clr!llr l1(JVlJlltll!I(!S in tlJe sJ)a disinfection arise from the use of hrominc when compared to tllc stlJrl(Jard techniques of chlorine trea trllent.

1. Disinfection efficierlcy with bromirle is not signific(Jrltly rH ueperldellt in the pI; range of 7.0 to 8.0.

2. Bactericidal and viricidal efficency of bromine is not reduced by the presellCe of ammonia and/or orgarlic amines (i.e., perspiration, urine}.

3. Eye irritatiorl alld halogen odors are minimized by the use of bromine.

4. When properly stored, bromine is very stable.

Following tIle initial hydrolysis of urolllill(J, tllfJ remaining water chemistry is IJlIse(J ui)on Hypobromous Acid and Hypochlorous Aci(J. I-JyIJobromous Acid reacts with ammonia to form a scries of compounds called bromamines which are active disinfectants. Hypochlorous Acid liberateLi frolTl bromine functions lIS a regenerated form or active bromine disinfectant thereby creating additional free bromine.

To sanitize always maintaill a collstalll activu uromine or chlorine residual of 2 to 4 pplll. To l.<eelJ water clear, "shock " wilh clllorine to ruisc the inactive bromine back to the ( HoUr) form. Clllorine is the most cost efficient method of oxidizing ammonia in water. Follow your chemical Inanufacturer instructions for proper c'lcmical usu arId dosage.

4.3.3 pH CONTROL: pH can be described as a measure of tllC acid activity in water. It is important because it dictates the perccnta!jc of trlJly uscful S,lllitizer that can be expected.

The overall importance of IJH control is often underestirnated. If pH is out of the desirable range it can adversely affecl: (1) clarily of the

,,",

~;':( water; (2) bactericidal efficiency of the sanitizing agent; (3) odor of the water; (4) skin and eye irritation to the bather; (5) corrosiveness of the spa water; (6) scale formation on spa wall and piping (7) short filter cycles (8) deterioration of heaters.

The pH scale runs from 0 to 14, with 7.0

being the neutral or mid-point. any pH less than 7.0 is on the acid side of the scale: the closer one comes to a pH of 0.0 the more corrosive th~ water. Any rH greater than 7.0

is on the bi)sic or alkaline sirle of tIle scale; the closer one comes to a pH of 14.0 the more caustic tl)e water. It is generally agreed that a f)H in the range of 7.4 to 7.8 is the most comfortable and desirable level.

Adjusting the pl-l can be readily accomplished.

l-he ad(Jition of pl-l litJ. which is sodilJm

(~arbonatc or so(lcJ ash will raise pl-1 rapidly while raisinl] alkdlinity slowly.

4.3.4 ALKALINITY:

Total ulkalinity, as opposed to pH, is the rlllantitative measllrement of the alkaline material, bicarbonates, hydroxides, etc.

rresent in the water which acts as a buffer against rapid pH chan(]e. Slla water should be tested regularly to determine the total alkalinity which should be in the ran!le of 90 to 120 ppm. -90 bein~J the ideal. To raise T A, use

SodilJm Bicarbonate (baking soda) which raises the alkalinity rapidly. It also will raise the pl-f slowly.

ACID OR TRI-CHLOR MUST NOT BE

USED. IT WILL RUIN YOUR SPA FINISH.

4.3.5 CALCIUM I-IARDNESS:

Total hardness is made up of pissolved calcium

IJlus smaller quantities of other mi~eral salts including Inagnesium. It must be noted that the amour It of calcium hardness present will vilry from one spa to another and is what dictates water balance. The higher the calcium hardness level the lower total, Cjllkalinity; conversely the higher the TA the ,lower the cillcium hardness one should maintain. Water will tend to halance itself hy leaching calcium frorll WII{lt(~Vl~r is (Iv(Jilable be it pool Wlllls or your hody. Try to maintain a higher calcium

1(~v~1 it should be 200 [() 22b I)prn.

4.3.6 WATER CLARITY:

Because of the heavy demar:ld on the water at clcvat('(1 tcmpcratllrcs, yollr' Sl)a water may appear to be cloudy. This indicates that your filter may be fouled and should be cleaned immediately. If after cleaning the filter, the water remains cloudy, check pH and TA. If cloudiness still persists, introduce water clarifier. This J)roduct is formulated to suspend part iClJ late matter to form large enough particles to be trapped by your filter. Also you will use less chlorine or bromine because the water clarifier removes and neutralizes the particles before the chlorine or bromine has time to oxidize them.

If frequent dosages are indicated and the water continues to remain cloudy, you will need to drain and refill you spa.

4.3.7 FOAMING:

Foaming is caused by shampoo and soap residues, hair sprays, cleansers and even "soft" water -low total alkalinity and calcium hardness. When air is bubbled through water, surface tension tends to create a film on top of the water which, in fact, does not allow the air bubbles to pop. These bubbles begin to form on the surface and have the appearance of foam.

In order to reduce the foam, the use of No

Foam is recommended. This product immediately reduces surface tension by breaking down the oils and removing them through filtration. Squirt a small amount of

No Foam across the surface of your spa water.

If you find that it does not accomplish defoaming of the water within one hour, repeat the dosage. If several applications are required, this is an indication that the spa should be drained and refilled with fresh water .

4.3.8 COLORED WATER/SCALE FORMATION:

Colored water is generally caused by: the presence of metals such as iron, copper and manganese. They can be present as metallic ions in solution or as finely divided particles of metallic compounds in suspension. Each metal imparts its own characteristic color to the water when oxidized by chlorine or bromin~. Iron produces a reddish brown tint.

Copper causes the water to appear blue-green and when manganese is present, the water takes on a dark brownish black hue.

Because minerals and metals are generally present ill the fill or make-up water, a proper chelating agent should be used to hold these minerals and metals in suspension to prevent scaling ilnd corrosion.

Corrosion and -=ale formation result in decreased heater efficiency and. if left

~ncheck~, m~y ~use complete ~1~99i~ of heater lines necessitating expensive replacements of heaters. pipes and metal fittings.

4.3.9 ALGAE:

Algae are microscopic plants which can grow in a spa if the free chlorine or bromine readings drop too low. It can sneak up on you without you seeing it. Algae spores are always in the atmosphere and soil. Rain showers, winds and dust storms are constantly ~umping these spores into your outside spa. Sunlight and warm temperatures provide th~ ~Iimate for algae to reproduce and grow -and grow.

When you can see them you already have about 30 million algae per ounce of water.

The best way to take care of algae is to never let it appear. Diligent testing is a great preventative along with the use of an algaecide.

Treatment consists of supercholorination and an algaecide appli~tion.

4.3.10 ALTERNATIVE DISINFECTION METHODS

The spa industry is unique in that its end product. the spa, in its most basic definition, is a vessel which. when filled with water, heated to the recommended temperature for safe use, second, then allowing that water t~ move around a person's body, creates a pleasurable, therapeutic environment. Unfortunately, this.

same water becomes saturated with contaminants and bacteria.

Primarily, there are three methods of disinfecting the spa water. The first, and most widely used, is chlorine disinfection. Atthough powerful and effective, there are some adverse si~e effects: strong odor, limited life, strong irritant. very unstable. The second, bromine, although not as strong as chlorine, has minimal odor, is more stable, and is less of an irritant. The third alternative is ozone. Although it is 50% more powerful than chlorine and 90% more powerful than bromine, it has not been as popular as the first two disinfectants, due to its relatively new introduction in the market. Howeveri it is fast becoming the recommended method of disinfection for the following reasons:

1 .Disinfection takes place at a much higher oxidation level. In fact, there are no bacteria or

"Iruses that are resistant to ozone.

? 9rganic ~n~ inQrg~niG ~taminants

.oxidized by ozone. th~n e~jly separateQ are fr9m the water through the filtration system.

to the environment because, unlike chlorine, it by-products.

4. Ozone, unlike chlorine, leaves no foreign chemicals remaining in the water.

5. No by-products other than oxygen, carbon dioxide, and filterable remains are geflerated by using ozone.

ENJOY YOUR SPA!

12