BALBOA water group VS510SZ Control System Instruction Manual

June 13, 2024
BALBOA water group

BALBOA water group VS510SZ Control System

Product Information

The Balboa VS Serial/Standard is a spa control system that includes the VS510SZ and VS520SZ models. It is designed to provide a safe and enjoyable spa experience for users. The system comes with various safety features and guidelines to ensure the well-being of individuals using the spa.

Important Safety Instructions

  • Danger: Children should not use this product without close supervision to reduce the risk of injury.
  • Warning – Risk of Child Drowning: Extreme caution must be taken to prevent unauthorized access by children. Always supervise children when using a spa or hot tub.
  • Danger: Do not remove suction fittings to reduce the risk of injury to persons.
  • Spa Location: Ensure the spa is placed in a location that allows sufficient drainage of water around the base and access to the power source compartment.
  • Hypothermia: Prolonged immersion in water warmer than normal body temperature can result in hyperthermia. Symptoms include dizziness, fainting, lethargy, and an increase in internal body temperature. Pregnant women should be cautious as it can cause fetal damage. Alcohol, drugs, or medication usage increases the risk of fatal hyperthermia.
  • Electrical Shock: Follow the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local codes during installation. Bond accessible metal surfaces to ensure electrical safety.
  • Proximity to Electrical Appliances: Do not place any electrical appliance within 5 feet (1.5m) of the spa or hot tub to avoid the risk of electrical shock.

Product Usage Instructions

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while using the Balboa VS Serial/Standard spa control system, please follow these usage instructions

  1. Always supervise children closely when they are using the spa.
  2. Do not remove suction fittings as they are essential for the safe operation of the spa.
  3. Place the spa in a location that allows proper drainage of water around the base and ensures easy access to the power source compartment.
  4. Avoid prolonged immersion in water warmer than normal body temperature to prevent hyperthermia. It is recommended to keep the water temperature between 98.6°F (37°C) and 104°F (40°C) for healthy adults.
  5. Lower water temperatures are recommended for extended use (exceeding 10-15 minutes) and for young children.
  6. Avoid using alcohol, drugs, or medication before or during spa usage as they can increase the risk of fatal hyperthermia.
  7. Follow the NEC and local codes when installing the spa, ensuring proper bonding of accessible metal surfaces and grounding connections.
  8. Keep electrical appliances such as lights, telephones, radios, or televisions at least 5 feet (1.5m) away from the spa or hot tub to prevent electrical shock.

By following these instructions, you can enjoy a safe and relaxing spa experience with the Balboa VS Serial/Standard control system.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

  • DANGER To reduce the risk of injury, do not permit children to use this product unless they are closely supervised at all times.
  • WARNING – RISK OF CHILD DROWNING. Extreme caution must be exercised to prevent unauthorized access by children. To avoid accidents, ensure that children cannot use a spa or hot tub unless they are supervised at all times.
  • DANGER To reduce the risk of injury to persons, do not remove suction fittings. Spa location must accommodate sufficient drainage of water around the base of the structure, as well as the power source compartment.
  • Prolonged immersion in water that is warmer than normal body temperature can result in a dangerous condition known as HYPERTHERMIA. The causes, symptoms, and effects of hyperthermia may be described as follows: Hyperthermia occurs when the internal temperature of the body reaches a level several degrees above the normal body temperature of 98.6 F. The symptoms of hyperthermia include dizziness, fainting, drowsiness, lethargy, and an increase in the internal temperature of the body. The effects of hyperthermia include (1) unawareness of impending hazard, (2) failure to perceive heat, (3) failure to recognize the need to exit spa, (4) physical inability to exit spa, (5) fetal damage in pregnant women, (6) unconsciousness resulting in danger of drowning. WARNING The use of alcohol, drugs or medication can greatly increase the risk of fatal hyperthermia in hot tubs and spas.

DANGER – RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK.

  • A spa may be installed within 5 feet of metal surfaces if each metal surface is permanently connected by a solid copper conductor attached to the wire connector on the terminal box . Refer to NEC and local codes in effect at the time of installation.)
  • A bonding lug is provided on the control box to permit connection of a solid copper bonding conductor between this point and any equipment, metal enclosures of electrical equipment, metal water pipe, or conduit within 5 feet (1.5m) of the unit as needed to comply with local requirements.
  • Bond accessible metal to the dedicated connector on the equipment grounding bus,bond the equipment ground bus to the local common bonding grid as part of the installation in the form of (1) a reinforced concrete slab for support, (2) a ground plate provided beneath the hot tub or spa, or (3) a permanent ground connection that is acceptable to the local inspection authority.
  • DANGER RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK. Do not permit any electrical appliance,  such as a light, telephone, radio, or television, within 5 feet (1.5m) of a spa or hot tub.

To reduce the risk of injury
The water in a spa or hot tub 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 extended use (exceeding 10-15 minutes) and for young children.
Excessive water temperatures have a high potential for causing fetal damage during  the early months of pregnancy, pregnant or possibly pregnant women should limit spa or hot tub water temperatures to 100 F(38 C).

  • Before entering the spa or hot tub, the user should measure the water temperature with an accurate thermometer.
  • The use of alcohol, drugs, or medication before or during spa or hot tub use may lead to unconsciousness with the possibility of drowning.
  • Persons suffering from obesity or with a medical history of heart disease, low or high  blood pressure, circulatory system problems, or diabetes should consult a physician before using a spa or hot tub.
  • Persons using medication should consult a physician before using a spa or hot tub since some medication may affect heart rate, blood pressure, and circulation.

For Cord and Plug Connected Units

  • Must be connected to a grounded, grounding type receptacle only. NEVER connect the spa to an extension cord.
  • Do not bury the cord.
  • WARNING -To reduce the risk of electrical shock, replace damaged cord immediately.

For Permanently Installed Units
A terminal marked “G” or “ground” is provided in the wiring box located inside the equipment compartment. To reduce the risk of electric shock, connect the
terminal or connector to the grounding terminal of your electrical service or supply panel with a continuous green insulated copper wire in accordance with National
Electric Code Table 250-95 and any other local codes in effect at the time of the installation.

For Permanently Installed Units not Provided with an Internal Disconnecting Method  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 422-30 of the National Electric Code, ANSI/NFPA 70 1987. The disconnecting means must be readily accessible to the tub occupant but installed at least 5 feet (1.5m) from the tub water.

For Units with Gas Heaters

  • WARNING – Do not install indoors. This unit uses a gas heater that requires proper ventilation and is intended for outdoor use only.

High Voltage Warning

HIGH VOLTAGE CAN SERIOUSLY INJURE OR KILL!
ONLY EXPERIENCED TECHNICIANS SHOULD SERVICE THIS EQUIPMENT.
DO NOT remove the protective covers from any electrical enclosure, or attempt to service any related electrical device, unless you are a qualified electrician or service professional.

DANGER
Risk of electric shock. Before working with any electrical connections, make certain that the Main Power breaker from the house breaker box has been turned off.

WARNING
All electrical work must be performed by a qualified electrician and must conform to all local codes.

IMPORTANT
Due to the danger of severe electrical shock, locate all power disconnects before servicing a spa. Precautions must be taken whenever working with breaker boxes, G.F.C.I.’s, or service disconnects.

Electrical Installation

  • A licensed electrician must accomplish the electrical installation in accordance with the National Electric Code(NEC) Article 680, and any local codes in effect at the time of installation.
  • Refer to the System Data Label for equipment voltage and maximum amperage draws.
  • The GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) is a mandatory electrical safety device required for all portable spas and hot tubs as specified in the National Electrical Code Article 680-42. The GFCI in your particular installation may be installed at the electrical service panel or a separate sub-panel.
  • Use copper conductors ONLY. The ground must be sized following the National Electric Code, Table 250-122. For Power conductor size, refer to the National Electric Code Table 310-16.
  • A bonding lug has been provided on the control box to allow connection to local ground points. To reduce the risk of electrical shock, a solid copper bonding wire should be connected from this lug to any metal objects within 5 feet of the spa.
  • The NEC and most local codes require that a “disconnect” be installed within “line-of-site” of the spa.

Circuit & Breaker Rating| 15A| 20A| 30A| 40A| 50A| 60A
---|---|---|---|---|---|---
Maximum Amps| 12A| 16A| 24A| 32A| 40A| 48A
Minimum Wire Size| 14| 12| 10| 8| 6| 4

The above table is a wiring chart representation.
IMPORTANT- If your electrician is not absolutely sure how to connect your system correctly, call your local dealer. Any mistake may be costly and void your equipment warranty.

Electrical Installation
If your system was configured to include a 120VAC power cord, ensure that the proper receptacle has been installed (a dedicated circuit is required). DO NOT under any circumstances modify a 20 Amp plug to fit into a 15 Amp receptacle or use an extension cord. Doing so will create hazardous conditions and/or invalidate the warranty.

OPTION 1 Units with 15A / 20A GFCI Plug Connection

15/20AMP CORD END GFCI

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This illustration depicts a typical 15 AMP, cord-end GFCI installation. (The spa must be installed on a dedicated circuit.)

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Electrical Installation

OPTION 2 GFCI Installed in Main Service Panel

20-60AMP HARDWIREDBALBOA-water-group-VS510SZ-Control-System-
\(3\)

Option 2 shows the power from GFCI breaker installed into main service panel to a service disconnect within line-of-site of the spa. If the manufacturer of your homes main breaker panel makes a GFCI breaker, you may be able to add it to an open slot in the panel.

OPTION 3 Subpanel GFCI Installed

20-60AMP HARDWIRED

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Option 3 shows the power from main service panel to a GFCI subpanel within line-of-site of the spa.

(Note: Most local codes will allow a GFCI subpanel to be a disconnect. If this is not the case in your installation, a disconnect must be provided.)

GFCI Wiring Detail
It is important that the GFCI circuit breaker is installed correctly. Often this component has been improperly installed causing the breaker to instantly trip when the system is turned on. Below is an illustration of a typical GFCI breaker installation.

WARNING: Refer to the circuit breaker manufacturers installation instructions. This illustration is meant to be a guide for Field Technicians and is not intended to override or substitute the instructions supplied with the circuit breaker.

LOAD NEUTRAL MUST BE CONNECTED DIRECTLY TO GFCI AS SHOWN

Cord Connections

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SPEED PUMP CORD CONFIGURATION
The following wiring configuration is for two-speed pump circuits.

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SINGLE SPEED PUMP / ACCESSORY CORD CONFIGURATION
The following wiring configuration is for single-speed pump circuits, circulation pumps, ozones, blowers and accessories.

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Figure 1

All Device outputs are preset for 120V outputs (as seen above in figure 1). If 240V output is required, please utilize the chart below to configure the appropriate outputs for 240V. For example, to convert pump 1 to 240V, move the red coded wire to J32 (as shown in Figure 2).BALBOA-water-group-VS510SZ-
Control-System- \(10\)

Voltage Selection Chart for 240V Conversion

Device Plug Location Volts Amps Wire Color Code Move To
2 SPD P1 J23 240V 12A Red RED AC / J32
Circ Pump J47 240V 4A Brown RED AC / J33
Blower / P2 J17/26 240V 12A Violet / Blue RED AC / J34
AV J50 240V 2A White RED AC / J35
Ozone J29 240V 1A Yellow RED AC / J36
Light J20 240V 1A NA NA
Blower / P2 Expander Board 240V 12A Violet / Blue RED AC / J37

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Power Connection

IMPORTANT: Always refer to the product data label (located on top of the control box) for specific electrical information.

  • Use copper conductors only as required by the NEC.
  • Secure wires as defined by the NEC and in compliance with any local codes in effect at the time of installation.

240-VOLT ELECTRICAL SERVICE REQUIREMENTS

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120-VOLT ELECTRICAL SERVICE REQUIREMENTS

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Heater wattage is rated at 240V. When running 120V to heater, output is approximately 25%.

IMPORTANT- All equipment must be rated for 120VAC.

Circuit Board Configurations VS510SZ

  • IMPORTANT: Power off spa when making any dip switch changes.

Dip Switch Chart for VS510SZ

  • A1 Test Mode (normally OFF)
  • A2+A10 Control amp draw requirements (See Table 1)
  • A3 “ON” position : Expander Board Enabled for 1-speed Pump only.*
  • “OFF” position: Expander Board Disabled. A4 Aux Freeze (must be OFF)
  • A5+A9 Pump 1 speeds and Circ Modes
A5 A9 Circ Mode Pump 1 Speed
OFF OFF Non-circ 2-speed
ON OFF Thermostatically Controlled 1-speed
OFF ON 24 hours with 3°F shut-off 1-speed
ON ON 24 hours with 3°F shut-off 2-speed

A6 “ON” position: 50Hz operation

  • “OFF” position : 60Hz operation
  • A7 “ON” position: Blower Enabled.
  • “OFF” position: Blower Disabled.
  • A8 “ON” position: temperature is displayed in degrees Celsius
  • “OFF” position: t emperature is displayed in degrees Fahrenheit

Switchback A

  • A1, Test Mode OFF
  • A2, See Table 1
  • A3, Expander Pump disabled
  • A4, Aux Freeze
  • A5, 2-speed P1
  • A6Switchbank A
  • A7, Blower Disabled
  • A9, Non-Circ Mode A10, See Table 1

Panel Button Positions

Panel Button Assignments

  • 1=Mode
  • 2=Temp Up
  • 3=Temp Down
  • 4=Light
  • 5=Pump 1

| A7: OFF| A7: ON
---|---|---
3: OFF| 6=Unused 7=Unused| 6=Blower 7=Unused
A3:ON| 6=Exp Pump 7=Unused| 6=Exp Pump 7= Blower

Aux Panel Information

Supports 4-button aux panel

Circuit Board Configurations VS520SZ

  • IMPORTANT: Power off spa when making any dip switch changes.

Dip Switch Chart for VS520SZ

  • A1 Test Mode (normally OFF)
  • A2+A10 Control amp draw requirements (See Table 1)
  • A3 N/A (must be OFF)
  • A4 Aux Freeze (must be OFF)
  • A5+A9 Pump 1 speeds and Circ Modes
A5 A9 Circ Mode Pump 1 Speed
OFF OFF Non-circ 2-speed
ON OFF Thermostatically Controlled 1-speed
OFF ON 24 hours with 3°F shut-off 1-speed
ON ON 24 hours with 3°F shut-off 2-speed

A6 “ON” position: 50Hz operation

  • “OFF” position: 60Hz operation
  • A7 “ON” position: Blower Enabled.
  • “OFF” position: Blower Disabled.
  • A8 “ON” position: temperature is displayed in degrees Celsius
  • “OFF” position: t emperature is displayed in degrees Fahrenheit

Switchback A

  • A1, Test Mode OFF
  • A2, See Table 1
  • A3, Expander Pump disabled
  • A4, Aux Freeze
  • A5, 2-speed P1
  • A6 ZH 09 9V
  • A7, Blower Disabled
  • A8, Degrees F
  • A9, Non-Circ Mode
  • A10, See Table 1

Panel Button Positions

Panel Button Assignments

  • 1=Mode
  • 2=Temp Up
  • 3=Temp Down
  • 4=Light
  • 5=Pump 1
  • 6=Pump 2
  • 7=Blower (when A7 is ON)

Aux Panel Information

Supports 4-button aux panel

System Start-Up

  1. Unplug the power cord (120-volt system only) or turn the electrical power “OFF” at the service or breaker panel (120 or 240 volt permanently connected units.)
  2. Open all WATER shut-off valves.
  3. For spas equipped with a hose bib or drain valve, make sure that it has been closed.
  4. For spas equipped with in-line or pressure water filters, make sure that the filter nut, housing drain plug, and air relief valve are closed and tight.
  5. Using a standard water hose, fill the spa with fresh tap water to the level recommended by the spa manufacturer.
  6. Inspect all plumbing connections and lines for any sign of water leaks.
  7. Close all AIR control valves.
    • WARNING: Do not confuse with WATER shut-off valves.
  8. Plug the unit into the proper outlet (120-volt system) or turn on the breaker at the electrical service panel (240-volt system).
  9. When the system is first started (or any time power is reset) it will go through a series of diagnostic checks, displaying various information on the display, and finally ending with the spaside panel reading “PR” meaning Priming Mode.
  10. During Priming Mode, press “Jets” button(s) repeatedly and be sure all pumps are free of air.
  11. On systems with a pressure filter, bleed off the trapped air by opening the Air-Relief valve. You will notice a steady flow of water when the air has been bled completely.
  12. If equipped, switch the “AIR BLOWER” on to verify that it is working, then switch it off.
  13. If equipped, switch the “LIGHT” on to verify that it is working, then switch it off.
  14. If equipped, switch the “AUXILIARY PUMP” on to verify that it is working, allow to run until all air is evacuated from the plumbing system, then switch it off.
  15. Adjust temperature to the desired set point for comfortable use of the spa. The pump low speed and heater will activate until the set point has been reached.

Heater Start-Up Sequence
The HydroQuip heater goes through a testing phase every time it starts up to assure that there is adequate water flow.

  1. Prior to heating, the pump will run for at least 2 minutes and verify that sensors are within specifications.
  2. The heater turns on for 6.5 to 18 seconds. At this point, the heat indicator on the panel is “solid”. During this time the spa side panel is not immediately responsive.
  3. The heater turns off for 90 seconds, checking for adequate water flow in the heater. At this point, the heat indicator on the spa side panel may appear to “flicker” or “dim”.
  4. After adequate water flow has been verified, the heat indicator on the spaside panel returns to “solid” and the spa will heat to set temperature.

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Filtration Programming

  • The first preset filter cycle begins 6 minutes after the spa is powered up. The second preset filter cycle begins 12 hours later. Filter duration is programmable for 2, 4, 6, or 8 hours or for continuous filtration (indicated by fc ). mTo program, press “Warm” or Cool” then “Jets 1.” Press “Warm” or “Cool” to adjust the number of hours of filtration. Press “Jets 1” to exit programming.
  • For non-circulation pump systems, low-speed pump 1 and the ozone generator (if installed) run during filtration.
  • For 24 hour circulation systems, the circ pump and the ozone generator (if installed) run 24 hours. In hot environments, the circulation pump may turn off for 30 minute periods, except during filter cycles.
  • For non-24 hour circulation pump systems, the circ pump and ozone generator (if installed) run during filtration (and may also run automatically at other times).
  • At the beginning of each filter cycle all other pumps and blowers will run briefly to purge the plumbing to prevent water from becoming stale.
  • IMPORTANT – Heater pump must provide a minimum flow of 23 GPM through the

Modes / Behaviors

Standard Mode
STANDARD Mode maintains set temperature.”St” will be displayed momentarily when you switch into Standard Mode. Non-Circ systems will turn on pump 1 low every 30 minutes for 2 minutes to measure water temperature.

Economy Mode
ECONOMY Mode heats the spa to the set temperature only during filter cycles. “Ec” will display when water temp is not current, and will alternate with water temp when the pump is running.

Sleep Mode
SLEEP Mode heats the spa to within 20°F/10°C of the set temperature only during filter cycles.”SL” will display when water temp is not current, and will alternate with water temp when the pump is running.

How to change modes

  • Mode is changed by pressing the “Warm” or “Cool” button, then pressing the “Mode” button.
  • Note that the last measured spa temperature displayed is current only when the pump has been running for at least 2 minutes.
  • On non-circ systems, the low speed of pump 1 runs when the blower or any other pump is on. It may also activate for at least 2 minutes every 30 minutes to detect the spa temperature (polling) and then to heat to the set temperature if needed, depending upon mode. When the low speed turns on automatically, it cannot be deactivated from the panel; however, the high speed of pump 1 may be started.

Spaside Control Operation

Press “Jets 1” to turn pump 1 on or off, and to shift between low and high speeds (if equipped). The low-speed will turn off after 4 hours. High-speed will turn off after 15 minutes. Low-speed may run automatically at times, during which it cannot be deactivated from the panel, but high-speed may be operated. A light will appear next to the Jets button when it is active.
Press “Jets 2” to turn pump 2 on or off (VS510SZ) or shift between low and high speeds (VS520SZ). The pump will turn off after 15 minutes. A light will Jets 2 appear next to the Jets button when it is active.
Press this key to turn the pump/blower on and off. A light will appear next to the Aux button when it is active. Heater pump will run when pump/blower is activated.
Aux/Blower/Jets 3
Press this key to turn the spa light on or off. If your spa has a Deluxe LED light this key will be used to change colors and/or operation modes.
You may turn the light off at any time but the light circuit will turn off automatically after 4 hours of operation.
The last measured water temperature is constantly displayed.
To display the set temperature, press “Warm” or “Cool” once.
To change the set temperature, press a temperature button again before the display stops flashing. After three seconds, the display will stop flashing and begin to display the current spa temperature.
Temperature range (80°F – 104°F/26.0°C – 40.0°C) The last measured temperature is constantly displayed on the LCD.
Note that the last measured spa temperature displayed is current only when the pump has been running for at least 2 minutes.
Mode is changed by pressing “Warm” or “Cool,” then pressing “Mode.” A detailed description of the various modes is outlined in the Modes / Behavior on page

15.

Spa Light
Your control kit may include one of the 2 different light bulbs shown below. Both Light bulb styles will plug into your existing socket.
Your control may also include a new light harness and plug but this harness is not required if your existing unit looks the same.

To replace your spa light bulb, locate the light fitting and clear away any insulating or foam material to allow you to access the rear of the fitting.

Important Note : Do NOT loosen or remove the large light fitting or nut, the bulb replacement can be completed by simply removing the rear reflector.

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Deluxe LED Light

  • The LED bulb is installed by removing the white reflector by turning it counter-clockwise and removing from the fitting body.
  • Remove the existing bulb and replace with the LED bulb and then replace the reflector onto the fitting body.
  • The LED light includes multiple LED’s to allow you to choose from 7 different colors, a color wheel or strobe function.
  • To operate and change the light colors, simply push the light button on the spaside control On and Off until you find your preferred color.

Standard Light

  • The light bulb is removed by simply turning the socket counter-clockwise and then removing from the white reflector.
  • The operation of this bulb is a simple On or Off function by pushing the appropriate button on the spaside control.
  • A colored lens can be attached to the light body as shown to change the color to Blue or Red.

Please refer to page 16 for the appropriate light operation details.

Operation Considerations

The following describes situations you may encounter and situations to be aware of.

Warm Weather Conditions
Since your spa will normally be expected to maintain warm to hot water ready for use, a great deal of attention has been directed to the energy conservation detail of insulation to keep electrical cost down. Energy conservation efficiency may be achieved by extensive insulation of the spa cabinet, plumbing, spa shell and in some climates full foam insulation may have been provided. This energy conservation feature may cause an inconvenience during warmer times of the year. During warm periods of the year, the temperature within the equipment compartment can elevate to a point that the pump will automatically turn off for a short amount of time (15-30 minutes) to allow the pump to cool down before automatically restarting. This cool down feature will not harm your spa, but serves only to protect the pump from damage ad as and indicator that it is too hot. To minimize this occurrence, refrain from using your Hydrotherapy Jets for prolonged periods of time during warm seasons. The jet pump chosen for your spa has been specifically sized for maximum performance and your Hydrotherapy enjoyment.

Filtration System
Please refer to your Spa Manufactures Owner’s Manual regarding the operation, maintenance and cleaning of your filtration system.

IMPORTANT – Heater pump must provide a minimum flow of 23 GPM through heater.

Winterizing
When freezing weather and/or power losses are expected, contact your local spa dealer for freeze protection or winterizing recommendations for both the spa and the equipment system. Freeze related damage is not covered by the warranty.

Chemical Water Treatment

  • Your dealer is familiar with local water conditions and which chemicals are compatible with and designed specifically for your spa. This is the best person to advise you on proper water quality management. The one thing you can do to insure years of trouble free equipment operations is to maintain proper water chemistry.
  • Two basic goals of the chemical water treatment are sanitizing and balancing the water. Sanitizing simply means keeping the water free from microorganisms including algae, bacteria and viruses. The current most popular chemicals for sanitizing include chlorine, bromine and ozone.
  • Balancing water means establishing a balance among pH, total alkalinity and total hardness. Water that is unbalanced can corrode the spa and it’s support equipment or leave deposits of minerals. Properly balanced water is essential to allow the sanitizing chemical to work effectively. There are numerous chemical additives to help you in controlling pH, total hardness and alkalinity. Never use softened water when filling you spa. Softened water is extremely corrosive to the metal parts of the spa equipment and may lead to an unforeseen failure. Sometimes, despite your most diligent efforts, your water may become to far out of balance to be managed chemically. At this point it is probably better to drain and clean the spa and start over with fresh water. Equipment failure caused be improper water chemistry will not be covered under warranty. Saltwater purification systems can potentially damage your equipment. Any related failures will not be covered under warranty.

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Troubleshooting

The following describes situations and possible solutions to common problems you may encounter as a spa owner.

Nothing Operates

  • Main Breaker is OFF – Set to On.
  • Sub-Panel Breaker Off – Set to On.
  • Equipment GFCI Off – Set to On.
  • Power switch in Off position – Set to On.
  • Components not plugged in – Plug in components.
  • Power cord not plugged in – Plug in power cord.
  • Over or High Temperature Protection On – Refer to Spa Side Messages.

No, Low or Surging Water Flow

  • Air Lock in Plumbing System – “Bleed” the system.
  • Restricted Flow – Insure that the water shut-off valves are open and that suction fittings are not blocked by debris.
  • Dirty Filter – Clean or replace filter.
  • Low Water Level – Increase water level to recommended level.

Low Speed Pump Not Operational

  • Circuit board configuration is Incorrect – Contact your local dealer.
  • Pump Not Plugged-In – Plug in the Pump.
  • Blown Fuse – Contact your local dealer.

Jets or Blower Not Operational

  • Blower or Pump Not Plugged-In – Plug in the Blower or Pump.
  • Blown Fuse – Contact your local dealer.
  • Over or High Temperature Protection On – Refer to Spa Side Messages.

Therapy Jet Not Operational

  • Water Shut-Off Valves are Closed – Open Shut-Off valves.
  • Dirty Filter – Clean or replace filter.
  • Jets Not Properly Adjusted – Adjust Jets properly.
  • Diverter Valve Not Properly Adjusted – Adjust diverter valve properly. Thermal Overload Tripping – Check for restricted flow of water.

Water Leaks

  • Spa Overfilled – Adjust water level.
  • Too Many People in the Spa – Adjust water level.
  • Drain-Valve Left Open – Close drain valve.
  • Couplings or Unions Loose – Tighten or contact your local dealer. Pump Seal Leaking – Contact your local dealer.
  • Plumbing / Connections Leaking – Contact your local dealer. Water Leaking from Spaside Control – Contact your local dealer. Water in Air Blower Plumbing – Contact your local dealer.

No Heat

  • Temperature Not Set Correctly – Adjust Set Point.
  • Over or High Temperature Protection On – Refer to Spa Side Messages Current Limiting On – 120V Systems will not heat if High Speed or Blower is on. Contact your local dealer.
  • No Power – Reset breaker at service panel.
  • Low Water Flow – Clean or Replace filter.
  • System is in Economy or Sleep Mode – Refer to modes / behaviors on page 21.

Light Not Operation

  • Light Bulb Defective – Replace bulb or contact your local dealer.
  • Reflector has Fallen Off – Replace deflector or contact your local dealer. Light Not Plugged-In – Plug in the Light.

High Heat

  • Filter Cycles Running Too Long – Adjust filter cycles down. Temperature Set Too High – Adjust Set Point.
  • High Ambient Temperature – Remove spa cover.

GFCI Breaker Trips Occasionally

  • Lightning / Electrical Storm or Power Surge – Reset GFCI Breaker.

NOTE: The GFCI breaker must be properly installed by a licensed electrician.

GFCI Breaker Trips Immediately

  • Defective Component or Improper GFCI Breaker Installation – Contact a qualified service technician or the factory for assistance.
  • 120V conversion jumper installed when 240V power supplied – Remove jumper located between RED AC and WHT AC

Testing the Sensor Set

IMPORTANT: For the following set of instruction, the power must be off when plugging in or unplugging sensors.

  1. Check sensor wires for cracks or damage that may indicate the presence of a rodent.
  2. Inspect connections of both sensors on the circuit board. The plugs must be clean.
  3. If the spaside has the error message of SA or Sb, this is an indication of a faulty sensor or possibly a faulty circuit board.
  4. With the power off to the spa, unplug the two sensors from the circuit board and exchange their positions (i.e., plug the one that was in the “Sen. A jack into the “Sen. B jack and vice versa).
  5. Power up the spa, if the error message did not change (i.g. original error message was SA and still displays SA) this is an indication of a faulty circuit board. If the error message changed (i.g., original error message was SA and now displays Sb) replace the sensor in the corresponding plug on the circuit board.
  6. When replacing sensors, please keep in mind that the heater assembly will contain water pressure even with the spa’s power off. Close available slice valves and proceed with caution not to allow water on the surrounding electronics.

System Plug Pinouts

System Data Label
Note: This information will be necessary if you should ever have to request warranty or any other type of service.
The system data label is located on the control box. This label is very important and contains information you will need to establish your electrical service. The voltage and amperage ratings are shown on the bottom of the label. Product, Model, Serial and Code numbers are also shown on the label.

Warranty Information

  • To all original purchasers, HydroQuip, warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of 1 year from the date of manufacture.
  • Hydro-Quip will, at it’s discretion, repair or replace any part which has been found to be defective.
  • This warranty excludes damage as a result of : normal wear, freezing, low voltage, chemical abuse, accident, negligence, alteration, improper installation, use or care.
  • To obtain warranty service, return defective products within the warranty period to Hydro-Quip.
  • The Hydro-Quip Limited Warranty is for service on the control box only. Purchaser is responsible for removal or reinstallation labor, freight charges, or any other such costs incurred in obtaining warranty service.
  • Hydro-Quip assumes no responsibility for incidental or consequential damages. Some states do not allow the exclusion of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations and exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights, which vary from state to state.

If you are the end user for this control system, the spa dealer may provide a different warranty; contact your spa dealer for details and warranty information.

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