Bradford BALBOA M3, Installation & Operation Manual

Page: 35 / 50

Residential Spa
pg. 35
File: RES_Hottub_manual_021116
Safe Operation Instruction / Rules
Cautions
1. Do not allow the use or operation of spa if suction grate fitting is missing, broken or loose.
2. Check spa temperature before each use. Do not enter the spa if temperature is above 104°F.
3. Secure spa area against unauthorized access in compliance to all safety codes.
4. Keep all breakable objects, carbon steel tools, fasteners and similar objects out of the spa area.
5. Spa should not be operated during severe weather conditions, ie. electrical storms, hurricanes, tornadoes.
6. Never place electrical appliances (telephone, radio, TV, portable AC or DC TV, etc.) within five feet (5’) or
within reach of bathers (whichever is greater) of the spa. Portable DC-TVs also have high voltage circuits
and can cause severe shock and possible loss of life.
7. DO NOT RUN PUMPS WITHOUT WATER FLOW - Failure to operate pumps without water flow or sufficient flow, can
result in pump and/or plumbing failure due to excessive heat and pressure and is not covered under warranty.
This can also result in bodily injury.
Water Maintenance
Water conditions will need to be tested regularly with a spa test kit and maintained at the levels as outlined on page 34. Testing
on a weekly or daily basis (when required) for a residential spa is brief and very simple. Water should be clean, clear and safe. A
number of specialty chemical products are available, if needed, from your local supplier to control scale, stain, algae and foam.
Water Testing
Test the water with a spa test kit (or take a water sample to your dealer). Pool and spa dealers have a variety of test kits and
chemicals to properly care for your new spa.
Total alkalinity should be maintained at 80 – 120 PPM. This helps to stabilize the pH, which should be maintained between 7.4 –
7.6. This level provides the best conditions for bather comfort, filtration and chemical effectiveness. Operating the spa above or
below this level can cause extensive damage to the tub and support equipment and will void warranty. The sanitizer (bromine or
chlorine) level should be maintained at levels recommended by the chemical manufacturer.
Copper/Silver Ionization Process
During the ionization process, an element gains and loses ions. An ion is an atom or group of atoms that contain an electrical
charge, and usually has an equal number of protons and electrons. An atom contains a nucleus in the center of one or more
negatively charged electrons orbiting around the outside. Ionization works by passing a low-voltage direct current through a
copper/silver anode positioned in the water circulation system. The low voltage charge causes other atoms of the anode to lose
electrons. They become positive ions that attempt to flow across the space between the anodes and are carried into the water by
the force of flow. Once copper/silver ions are released, they create a natural algaecide and bactericide. See owner’s manual for
proper setup and installation. Ensure that water is properly balanced as per above parameters.
Stains
If you suspect that the spa water contains metals (iron, copper, etc.), or is high in minerals (well water), it is a good idea to use
a sequestering agent to help prevent stains. Shock treatment is occasionally required after heavy bather loads. However, pool
shock treatments and poor water management can cause stainless steel corrosion. Shock treatments should only be considered
when necessary to maintain sanitation and should be performed using recommended procedures. For example, adding chlorine
in the center of a water stream so that rapid thorough mixing occurs.
A water temperature of 104°F should never be exceeded.