Aries Portable Spa Owner's Manual

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ARIES SPAS

BY ARIES ACRYLIC MFG., INC.

OWNER'S MANUAL

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Page 1 ARIES SPAS BY ARIES ACRYLIC MFG., INC. OWNER'S MANUAL...
Page 2 ARIES SPAS BY ARIES ACRYLIC MANUFACTURING, INC. 4176 I-30 EAST ROCKWALL, TEXAS 75087 ARIES SPAS OWNER'S MANUAL Copyright © 2005 Aries Acrylic Mfg., Inc. 4176 I-30 East Rockwall, Texas 75087 • (972) 771-6286 Printed in the USA...
Page 3: Important Safety Instructions
Aries Spas • User Manual IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS READ AND FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS • WARNING - To reduce the risk of injury, do not permit children to use this product unless they are closely supervised at all times. • A wire connector is provided on this unit to connect a mini- mum No. 8 AWG (8.4mm solid copper conductor between this unit and any metal equipment, metal enclosures of electri- cal equipment, metal water pipe, or conduit within 5 feet (1.5 m) of the unit. • WARNING - This product is provided with a ground-fault circuit-interrupter on the side of the control box (beneath the spa). The GFCI must be tested before each use. With the prod- uct operating, open the service door. If the product stops oper- ating, this merely indicates that the door is equipped with an electrical interlock. Next, push the test button on the GFCI and close the service door. The product should not operate. Now, open the service door, push the reset button on the GFCI and close the service door. The product should now operate nor- mally. If the product fails to operate in this manner, there is a ground current flowing indicating the possibility of an electric shock. Disconnect the power until the fault has been identified and corrected.
Page 4 Aries Spas • User Manual • DANGER - Risk of Accidental Drowning. Extreme caution must be exercised to prevent unauthorized access by children. To avoid accidents, ensure that children cannot use this spa un- less they are supervised at all times. • DANGER - Risk of injury. The suction fittings in this spa are sized to match the specific water flow created by the pump. Should the need arise to replace the suction fittings or the pump, be sure that the flow rates are compatible. • DANGER - Risk of Electric Shock. Install at least 5 feet (1.5 m) 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 by a minimum No. 8 AWG (8.4 mm solid copper conductor to the wire connector on the terminal box that is provided for this purpose. • DANGER - Risk of Electric Shock. Do not permit any elec- tric appliance, such as a light, telephone, radio, television, within 5 feet (1.5M) of a spa. • WARNING - To reduce the risk of injury: • The water in the spa should never exceed 40˚ C (104˚ F). Water temperatures between 38˚ C (100˚ F) and 40˚ C are considered safe for a healthy adult. Lower water tem- peratures are recommended for young children and when spa use exceeds 10 minutes.
Page 5: Save These Instructions
Aries Spas • User Manual • Since excessive water temperatures have a high po- tential for causing fetal damage during the early months of pregnancy, pregnant or possibly pregnant women shouldn't limit spa water temperatures to 100˚ F (38˚ C). • Before entering a spa, the user should measure the water temperature with an accurate thermometer since the tolerance of water temperature-regulating devices varies. • The use of alcohol, drugs, or medication before or during spa use may lead to unconsciousness with the pos- sibility of drowning. • Persons suffering from obesity or with a medical his- tory of heart disease, low or high blood pressure, circulato- ry system problems, or diabetes should consult a physician before using a spa. • Persons using medication should consult a physician before using a spa since some medications may affect heart rate, blood pressure, and circulation. SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
Page 6: About This Manual
Aries Spas • User Manual About this manual This booklet was designed to be an aid in understanding the operation, functions, and maintenance of your Aries Spa. To receive maximum pleasure from your Aries Spa, it is helpful to understand how the spa operates and to have knowledge of proper maintenance procedures. Different applications and installations require various types of equipment. If your equipment is different from that described in this manual, it may be necessary to refer to any manuals supplied by your equipment manufacturer for specific operating and installation information. We hope that this manual will give you all the information needed to understand the basics of operation and main- tenance of your spa. If you have questions that were not answered in this booklet, please give us a call. Enjoy, The staff at Aries Spas...
Page 7: Table Of Contents
Aries Spas • User Manual Contents Important Safety Instructions ..........ii About this manual ............v Installation ..............1 Electrical Hookup ............1 Replacement of Existing Equipment ......2 Location..............2 Operation ............... 3 Initial Start-up ............3 Filling your Spa ............3 Starting your Circulating Pump ........
Page 8 Aries Spas • User Manual Internal Clock ............10 Customized Circulation Mode ........10 Freeze Protection ............. 12 Internal High Limit Switch .......... 12 Interior Fittings .............. 13 Venturi Controls (Air Controls) ........13 Circulation Fittings ............ 14 Suction Fittings ............. 14 Hydrotherapy / Massage Jets ........
Page 9: Installation
Aries Spas • User Manual Installation of Portable Spa HAVE YOUR ELECTRICIAN READ BEFORE INSTALLATION BE- GINS! Please contact a qualified electrician to wire your spa. All Aries Spas have a High current GFCI (ground-fault current interrupt- er) built in. A standard circuit breaker is required in your circuit supply panel. Do not use a GFCI-type breaker in your supply panel. All Aries Spas require a 220 volt supply circuit consisting of four wires. Use #6 AWG wire (copper conductors only). All metal components of the equipment assembly have bonding lugs. These lugs should be connected together with a minimum #6 AWG cop- per conductor. All spa equipment packs require a dedicated breaker. The breaker should be 50 amp, (60 amp for double-jet pump system) single phase, 220 volt service, consisting of four wires; two hot wires, a neutral wire and a ground wire. Wire size is determined by length of run, but generally #8 wire for 0-50 feet and #6 wire for 51+ feet is recommended. This might vary, depending on length of run or other unforeseen factors. Any varia- tion from this service will void warranty.
Page 10: Replacement Of Existing Equipment
Aries Spas • User Manual tions are made by a qualified electrician in accordance with the National Electric Code and any local and State Electrical Codes in force at the time of installation. These connections must be made in accordance with the wiring diagrams found inside the control box and the wiring diagrams within this manual. This equipment has been designed to operate on 60 Hz alternating current only and at 240 Volts. Make sure that power is not applied while performing any electrical installation. A copper bonding lug has been provided on the electrical equipment pack to allow connection to local grounded points. The ground wire must be at least 8 gauge solid copper and must be connected securely to a grounded metal structure. Replacement of an existing Equipment Pack Follow the instructions above for the equipment installation so that the proper settings are made for current and voltage that the spa was connect- ed to. Due to the frequent updates in equipment models, please consult an Aries Spa technician if there are any differences in component connec- tions. Location It is very important that your spa be located on a solid, level foundation.
Page 11: Operation
Aries Spas • User Manual water will not hit the siding of the spa. Gates giving access to the spa should be self-closing and self-locking for safety. Operation Initial Start-up Please read this section fully before attempting initial start-up of your spa. Always turn the thermostat(s) and electric power off when filling or draining the spa, and always fully open any valves that could restrict water flow to and from the heater element.
Page 12 Aries Spas • User Manual air by turning the Bleed Valve (the small valve located on the filter lid) counterclockwise until you hear a release of air. Do not totally unscrew or remove the Bleed Valve. Do not remove the black locking ring of the filter lid at this time or serious damage could occur. Opening the Bleed Valve will allow any trapped air to be purged and some gurgling or bubbles may come from the Return GFCI Jets. Once a steady stream of water starts spurting from the Bleed Valve,...
Page 13: Equipment Pack Controls
Aries Spas • User Manual released all trapped air. Sometimes draining a small amount of water from the Hose Bib (located by the Equipment Pack) is also helpful for releasing an air lock. If you have tried all the above, and there is still no visible water flow coming from the Circulation Jets, STOP! Push the black “Test” button on the GFCI to turn spa off and call the Aries Spas Factory immediately! Do not go on to the next step or serious damage may occur to your spa equip- ment pack. Once you are sure that the Circulating Pump motor is circulating the wa- ter, proceed to the next section. Equipment Pack Controls Power Switch (GFCI) Your Aries Spa Equipment Pack is provided with a ground-fault cir- cuit interrupter (GFCI). This GFCI may look and/or operate similar to one you may have in your home, but know that it is a highly special- ized device exclusive to your Aries Spa. It is located on the right side of the Equipment Pack (not on the face of the equipment pack). Electrical problems within the spa equipment are monitored by this device. If any potential shock situation does occur, this device will interrupt the power supply, thereby removing the potential of danger to equipment and/or hu- man occupants. You can use this GFCI as a system “On-Off” switch. GFCI Breaker (Test) and (Reset) Buttons To make sure that the GFCI breaker is operating properly, press the black button labeled “Test”. If operating normally, the Equipment Pack will shut off, and the red button will pop out and require resetting. The same will happen if water comes into contact with the components.
Page 14: Spa-Side Controls
Aries Spas • User Manual time for all moisture to evaporate, and try to reset again. If it continues to pop out, call your spa dealer or Aries Factory. (If your fingers are large and you have trouble resetting, try using the eraser end of a pencil). Spa-Side Controls Your Aries Spa equipment is composed of state-of-the-art microproces- sor circuitry, similar to that of a home computer. All user-functions and operational changes are done via the Top Side spa control. Setting the Desired Temperature The Thermostat can be set to temperatures within a range from 70˚ through 106˚ as described below. Push and hold either the “up” or “down” arrow button for a few seconds. The “ac- tual” water temperature in the display will be replaced with the “de- sired” temperature, and the number will begin to increase or decrease, Spa-Side Controls depending on which ar- row you are depressing. When you get to your new desired temperature, simply release the arrow button. The spa will now begin adjusting the water to that temperature and maintain it there. Use the digital readout and your personal preferences as a guide in adjust- ing the temperature. WARNING: Prolonged immersion in hot water may induce hyperthermia.
Page 15: Digital Temperature Readout
Aries Spas • User Manual temperature of the body. The effects of hyperthermia include: Unawareness of impending hazard ◊ Failure to perceive heat ◊ Failure to recognize the need to exit the spa ◊ Physical inability to exit the spa ◊...
Page 16: "Aux" Button
Aries Spas • User Manual When the jet pump(s) are turned on, an internal timer in the control box will automatically turn the jet pump(s) off after 30 minutes. This is a safe- ty feature that greatly lengthens the life of the jet motors and eliminates unnecessary use of electricity. If you are still using the spa and the jet pump(s) shut off while you want them on, simply push the “Jet” button(s) and the pump will come back on for another 30 minute cycle. “AUX” Button The “AUX” Button operates the Air Blower Pump. The air blower forces air through the Air Injector Fittings. These are fittings located in the spa seats or on the vertical wall under the seats, and are designed to introduce air into the spa under pressure. (Some models resemble salt shaker tops.) Push the “AUX” Button and the Air Blower will come on. Push it again and the Blower will shut off. The spa controller box will au- tomatically turn the blower off Function Buttons after 30 minutes. This is a safety feature that greatly extends the life of the blower and eliminates unnecessary use of electricity. If you are using the Air Blower and it turns off but you want it to be on, simply push the “AUX” Button and the Blower will come back on again for another 30 minute cycle. “Light” Button The “Light” Button operates the Spa Light, which is usually located in the step area of the spa. Push the button once and the light will turn on. Push it again and the light will turn off. The Raydiance® Light is an option. A specialty LED bulb replaces the standard light bulb. This light has 8 different colors including fade/strobe. The standard light can later be replaced by the Raydiance® light, if de- Page 8...
Page 17: Display Inversion
Aries Spas • User Manual sired. The Raydiance® light is operated as follows: Push the “Light” button to turn on or off as you would the standard light. As long as the light was left on for more than 5 seconds, the next time you turn it on, it will remain the same color as it was last time you used it. To change the color, turn the light off within 5 seconds of turning it on, then immediately turn it on again. It will cycle to the next color. Repeat until you get to the color of your choice. The last color on the cycle is fade/strobe. The light starts by strobing, then fades from one color to another, cycling through all 7 of the other colors. The bulb for the standard or Raydiance® light is easily replaceable from the underside of the spa, inside the equipment area, accessed by the equipment area door. The bulb is a 12V 9 watt low-voltage outdoor light- ing type of bulb found at most hardware stores. “INV” Button (Only on models equipped with double jet pumps) This feature allows the temperature to read right-side-facing when look- ing at it from inside the spa. Normally, the temperature display reads right-side-facing when viewing from outside the spa. To invert the display, press the “INV” Button, To return to standard dis- play press the button again. L.E.D. Indicator Light “Heat” Light Any time the heater is running, this light will flash just below and to the right of the temperature readout on the topside control. When the water reaches the desired temperature, the light will switch off.
Page 18: Special Features
Aries Spas • User Manual neously for about 5 seconds, until the LOC display is removed. Note: While in "LOC" mode, only the light function will operate. Special Features Auto-Purge Cleansing Your Aries Spa is equipped with an Auto-Purge System that twice daily turns on all pumps for 30 seconds. This automatic flushing of lines is im- portant to the overall sanitization of the water, eliminating stagnant water in unused plumbing lines. This is an automatic feature and takes no effort on your part. It takes place twice daily, based on the moment the internal clock was last reset (see below). Internal Clock In the effort to improve and simplify the operations of spas, we have replaced the traditional hard-to-set timeclock with an internal time-me- tering device. It is computerized, and requires no setting. It is a 12 hour clock, which controls Auto-Purging and Customized Circulation Modes. This clock divides each day (24 hours) into two 12-hour periods. The start time is reset every time the power is restored to the spa after be- ing turned off, regardless of whether the spa was manually turned off or inadvertently lost power. When the power is restored, the Internal Clock starts at "0" and goes to "12", then restarts at "0". The Auto Purge will happen each time the clock reaches "0". The Circulation Mode (below) also begins then. Start time of the clock is mostly insignificant except for the start time of the Custom Circulation Mode, unless a specific Auto Purge time is desired.
Page 19 Aries Spas • User Manual Warning: Never use the Customized Circulation Mode in Wintertime or when freezing weather could occur. This disables the Freeze Protection and could cause water in your equipment or lines to freeze, causing serious damage. Aries will not warranty against freeze damage caused by improper Circulation Mode settings.
Page 20: Freeze Protection
Aries Spas • User Manual temperature is reached, at which time the circulation pump and heater will again turn off. During the “off” period, jet, air blower and light functions are still avail- able to be used,. It is recommended that when you initially set to the Customized Circulation Mode that you do this in the evening, remembering to turn the system off, then back on to reset start times. The operating times will then be at night, in the cooler periods.
Page 21: Interior Fittings
Aries Spas • User Manual “Intermediate Overtemp” will disable the heater until the spa water inside the equipment cools down. When the display stops flashing, the heater's function is restored. The “Catastrophic Overtemp” functions in the same manner as “Inter- mediate Overtemp”, but does not automatically restore heater function. You must manually reset by pushing the “Temperature Up” (red triangle) Button. Interior Fittings Venturi Controls (Air Controls) Venturi Controls are round knobs located on the “lip” or upper ledge of your spa. Depending on the model, your spa may have one or several Venturi Controls, each operating a certain number of jets. They control the amount of air that is mixed with the water coming through the jets, which increases or softens the pressure of the jets. To control the amount of air introduced into your jets, turn the Venturi Control to the desired setting, to any position from far counterclockwise (maximum on) to far clockwise (minimum off). For maxi- mum air injection and a firmer massage, turn the knob all the way counterclock- wise. For a more gentle massage, turn toward clockwise. Venturi When the jet pump is not running, the venturis will do nothing. It does not mat- ter what position they are left in when you leave the spa. Circulation Fittings All of the fittings under the water in your spa are considered circulation fittings. They either circulate air or water. Your spa has two types of water Page 13...
Page 22: Suction Fittings
Aries Spas • User Manual fittings; suction and return. Some are designed to move water from the spa to the equipment (suction fittings), while others move water from the equip- ment to the spa (return fittings). The spa’s Circulating Pump circulates the water by pulling it from the spa via Suction Fittings (the Top Suction or Skimmer, and the Bottom Suctions), passing it through the heater and filter, then return- ing it to the spa via the Circulation Jets, usually located near the light or step of the spa. Normally, there are two Circulation Jets: one is a normal-sized jet, the other is a very small jet. Skimmer The spa's Jet Pump circulates water by pulling it from the spa via separate Bot- tom Suction Fitting and returns the water through the Massage Jets. Bottom Suctions Suction Fittings The Top Suction, or Skimmer, is designed to skim debris from the water’s surface. The Bot- tom Suctions are designed to pull water and dirt from near the spa’s bottom. The Suctions draw water from the spa whenever the Circulating Pump is running. It is important that the perforated cover of the suction always be in place and in good condition.
Page 23: Hydrotherapy / Massage Jets
Aries Spas • User Manual The Circulating Pump will draw water from one bottom suction and the skim- mer. Because this pump is of a small energy-efficient design, you will prob- ably not feel water passing into the bottom suction fitting that is connected to this system. Hydrotherapy / Massage Jets The Massage Jets in your spa are powered by the high-speed Jet Pump. The water is drawn from your spa via a Bottom Suction, and returned through your Massage Jets. These jets massage sore muscles and stimulate and increase blood circu- lation to aid in the recovery of injured body parts. Most spa owners agree that this is the single most beneficial function of their spa. Below are the description and operation of several of the more popular Massage Jets available at press time. In our continuing effort to update and improve the quality of our product, and because of the rapid advance- ments in the components available to us, jet availability changes frequent- ly. Because of this, the jets described below may not be identical with those being used at the time of your spa's manufacture. Standard Jets You can adjust both the direction and the velocity of water flow from the Standard Jets. The water flow can be reduced by turning the center nozzle or outer ring (depending on the model) clockwise. By closing one jet, the pressure in the other jets is increased. Do not close more than four jets at one time.
Page 24: Circular Jets
Aries Spas • User Manual Circular Jets There are several versions of these jets but they are all distinguished by their circular flow of water. Some allow you to adjust the diameter of the flow pattern. Certain designs have two circles that overlap each other when operating. One model has an exterior that looks like a “honeycomb” and has a circular jet be- Circular Jet hind the “honeycomb” baffles. The water can only escape at the individual holes thereby creating a pulsing circular effect. Jumbo Jet The Jumbo Jet is optional, and is not avail- able on all models. The Jumbo Jet is the big brother of the Circu- lar Jet, and is the largest jet you will have in your spa. It uses a large volume of water for a deep-muscle massage. Jumbo Jet The water pressure can be adjusted by turn- ing the outer ring of the jet clockwise (to decrease pressure) or counterclockwise (to increase pressure). Neck Jets Neck Jets are normally found above the water level. They can be turned on or off by pushing the nozzle inward (off) or pulling it outward (on). It is best to leave the Neck Jets off while not in use, because they sometime inject the water above the normal water level of the spa, splashing it out. Page 16...
Page 25: Circulation & Recovery Jets
Aries Spas • User Manual These jets are designed to be above the waterline and should not be covered by water. Neck Jets Circulation & Recovery Jets Do not obstruct the flow of these jets or serious damage to your equipment could occur.
Page 26: Air Injectors
Aries Spas • User Manual produced by the Ozone Generator. The air and cleansing agent are rein- troduced into your spa’s water, to efficiently get the maximum cleansing effect possible. If your spa is not equipped with an Ozone Generator, this fitting does nothing. It is there to facilitate the addition of an Ozone Generator if one is desired at a later date. Occasionally, jets that look similar to the small Circulation Jets will be used in place of Neck Jets or Regular Jets in the spa, or as air injec- tors (see below). These jets are not attached to the Ozone Generator, but rather are similar to standard jets. The Circulation & Recovery Jets are not adjustable. Air Injectors Most Aries Spas contain 14 to 20 Air Injectors, depending on the model of spa. These are white or stainless steel fittings located in the seating area of your spa. When you activate the Air Blower Pump by pressing the “Air” button on your Spa-side Control, air is forced through these fittings to make stimulating, tingly bubbles. The source for this air is the inside the spa enclosure (cabinet). The air that passes through the blower absorbs some heat from the blower, but it is not uncommon for the air to feel cooler than the spa water. Maintenance Filter The most important function of the Circulating System is to run the spa water through the filter to remove dirt, debris, and body oils. The filter cartridge is located inside the filter canister, hidden by the round lid con- taining inset drink holders. The Top Loading Pressure filter is most commonly used due to its ease Page 18...
Page 27: Cleaning Your Filter
Aries Spas • User Manual of cleaning and maintenance. It is available in the majority of Aries Spa models. Cleaning Your Filter Cleaning of the filter is the single most im- portant maintenance procedure that a new spa owner can perform. Aries recommends that you clean your Fil- ter at least once a week. If cared for prop- erly, you can expect to get about 1 years' use from each Filter Cartridge, depending on spa usage. When the Cartridge becomes worn, damaged, or heavily debris-embed- Filter Lid ded, replace it with a new one. Before cleaning the Filter, make sure to turn off power to the spa, using the GFCI. To do this, push the black “test” or “off” button on your GFCI. Or, you can turn off power to the spa by turning off the breaker in your electrical panel that powers the spa. Once power to the spa has been ter- minated you may proceed to clean your Filter. As the Top Loading filter is a pressure filter, make sure that power to spa is turned off before attempting to open this type of filter.
Page 28 Aries Spas • User Manual Firmly pull up on the Cartridge to remove it. Spray the cartridge with high pressure water from your water hose. The use of a pressure nozzle is recommended to ensure that the water cleanses between the accordion-like pleats of the filter. Start at the top working your way down, while rotating the Cartridge. If it appears to be heavily embedded with body oil or debris, you can clean it in your dishwasher, as the very hot water helps to break down the body oils. If you choose to use this method, do not add detergent, and make sure that the dish- washer's drying cycle is turned off. Note: For convenience sake, you may want to purchase an extra Filter Cartridge. When one needs cleaning, you can replace it with the other, and soak the dirty Cartridge in a mild solution of swimming pool acid (50 parts water to 1 part acid) or a 50/50 solution of household bleach, overnight. Then let it dry and shake or brush lightly. This process helps to remove body oils and fine embed- ded particles, resulting in the cleanest-possi- ble Cartridge with the least amount of effort.
Page 29: Water Treatment
Aries Spas • User Manual see water starting to flow from the Return Jets and hear bubbling and gur- gling. This is air being purged from the system. To remove any remaining air, momentarily turn counterclockwise the black Bleed Valve on top of the filter lid. When water starts to spray out, turn valve clockwise until closed. Make sure that there are bubbles coming from the Circulating Jets. If not, refer to the “Initial Start-up” section of this manual. Once your Circulat- ing Pump is operating properly, return Thermostat to previous setting. Also, check to see that no water is leaking from around the “mason-jar” lid. If you detect any leaks, turn off the power and remove the lid again. Lubricate the rubber gasket on the underside of the spa lid with a small amount of Vasoline© or marine lubricant, . Replace the lid as before and restart the Circulating Pump. If leaking persists, call Aries Service De- partment for assistance. Water Treatment One of the benefits of Aries' Continuous Circulating System is water treatment. If you are sanitizing with chemicals, this system will effective- ly stir water to aid in the mixture of chemicals and water. If your spa is ozone equipped, continuous injection of ozone will create a nearly chemi- cal and maintenance-free spa. Water treatment is a somewhat specialized topic. We will attempt to cover some of the basics, but we recommend visiting a spa chemical store, or the Aries Factory. Also, there are several good books available on the subject. It is necessary to treat your spa’s water for two important reasons: 1) To keep the spa water free from harmful bacteria and algae. 2) To keep the water’s percentage of acidity and alkalinity (pH) in bal- ance, so that your spa’s equipment will not be corroded by acid or clogged by alkaline buildup. Page 21...
Page 30: Disinfectants
Aries Spas • User Manual Disinfectants There are several alternatives for disinfecting your spa, including chemi- cal disinfectants (most notably bromine or chlorine products), and non- chemical methods (such as ozone generators, reverse ionizers, etc.). Ask your spa specialist for a more detailed explanation. The non-chemical methods will not only sanitize your water, but also help to stabilize the water’s pH balance (explained below). This is be- cause you aren’t altering the balance by adding chemicals (which have a pH factor of their own). Bromine To chemically treat against bacteria, spa bromine is often used. Many brands come in self-dispensing containers. If you use these, check fre- quently to make sure that your dispenser hasn’t run out of chemical. Also, using a spa test kit, test the water frequently to make sure that your sanitizer is at acceptable levels. The use of chlorine products are not recommended for acrylic spas, such as Aries Spas. Occasionally, it is necessary to add a larger-than-ordinary quantity of disinfectant to remove body oils and protein wastes (such as perspiration) from the water. This large dose, or “Shock Treatment”, can be purchased in handy packets, or in bulk form. Ozone Generator Ozone Generation is a method of sanitizing water that has been in gen- eral use since the late 1800’s. Most of the bottled drinking water today is purified by ozone as part of the process. The Ozone Generator uses the...
Page 31: Adjusting Ph
Aries Spas • User Manual Because this method of sanitizing uses much less chemicals, chemical residue in the spa water is lessened. Also, because you are not adding as many products with their own pH factor (see below), the pH of your spa water stays balanced longer. When using an Ozone Generator for sanitizing, it is extremely important to operate the Circulating Pump for sufficient periods of time each day. We recommend operating the Circulating Pump continuously. Adjusting pH It is necessary to keep your spa water’s ph (acidity /alkalinity ratio) at acceptable levels. A simplified explanation of pH is that it is like a ruler.
Page 32: Preventing Hard Water Or Stain Damage
Aries Spas • User Manual concentrated for use in large volumes of water (15,000 to 30,000 gals.). Proper dilution of these chemicals to an acceptable strength is difficult at best. Whenever possible, use one of the chemicals specifically formulated for spas. The Aries Factory carries a complete line of spa chemicals.
Page 33: Deep-Cleaning Of Plumbing Lines
Aries Spas • User Manual Deep-Cleaning of Plumbing Lines Occasionally, spas that are not used for long periods of time will develop “white flaky stuff” floating on the surface. This “stuff” is usually algae and can be removed Algae Treatments or by draining and refilling. But sometimes a simple drain and refill of the spa is not enough. Occasion- ally, a deep-cleaning or flushing of the spa's internal plumbing system is necessary to remove buildup of algae growth. To accomplish this, first turn the heater off by lowering the desired tem- perature. Add common bleach to the spa water; One gallon for 7’ spas and two gallons for 8’ spas. Run the Jet Pump and Air Blower Pump for 5 minutes. Then let the water sit for 20 minutes. Run jets and blower again. Let sit again. Repeat running the jets and air blower several times as needed. Finally, drain the spa and refill with fresh water. Install a new filter cartridge. This is the best method for deep cleaning of the internal plumbing. System Flush ® and Swirl Away ® are deep cleaning products made specifically for this purpose, and can be purchased at the Aries Store or in our online store at http://www.ariesspas.com/extras.html Draining your Spa Occasionally, it may become necessary to drain your spa for thorough cleaning or other reasons. Aries recommends draining and refilling the water at least once a year. Before draining your spa, turn off spa's Main Power Switch or GFCI.
Page 34: Troubleshooting Guide
Aries Spas • User Manual Note: The above method of starting a siphon only works when the faucet is below the water level of the spa. Another way of emptying your spa is to use the faucet or spigot that is built into your Aries Spa, attached to the equipment pack. Open the valve (turn the spigot). It is best if you attach a garden hose to the faucet, keep- ing the water off of the Equipment Pack. The water will start to drain out as long as the free end of the hose is below the water level of the spa. Note: The above method will drain the water only to the level of the lowest circulating fitting in the spa (the lowest Bottom Suction).
Page 35 Aries Spas • User Manual Can hear Circulating Pump running, but water is not circulating. Knife valve(s) closed. Shut off spa immediately. Otherwise, your equipment will “dry-fire” and burn out. Make sure all knife valves are in open position (pulled up). If they are fully down, they must be turned one-half turn before pulling open. Circulating Pump has drawn air and lost prime. Make sure that the water level in the spa is approximately to the middle of the Skimmer. Turn Thermostat to the lowest setting to protect heater. To release air from the system, with pump running, loosen (but do not remove) Bleed Valve located on the Filter lid. (This is a small screw- like fitting on top of the Pressure Filter.) Wait until water starts to spurt from the Bleed Valve, then re-close. Let pump run for about ten minutes. If prime has not been restored, momentarily turn open the hose bib that is built-in near the equipment pack and allow some water to run out. You may need to do this several times to purge all trapped air. Don’t let the pump run for more than ten minutes without prime. To do so could cause serious damage to your equipment. If, after 10 minutes, your pump has not picked up prime, wait 1 hour and try again to restore...
Page 36 Aries Spas • User Manual Spa does not heat The Filter Cartridge is dirty, causing insufficient water flow. When your heater’s interior flow valve senses low water flow (this can be caused by a clogged Filter Cartridge), it shuts the heater off until the flow is again sufficient (protecting your heater from overheating, and possibly burning out). Thoroughly clean your Filter Cartridge and restart the equipment. The Knife (“T” shaped) Valves may be partially or fully closed, causing insufficient water flow (see “Filter Cartridge is dirty”...
Page 37 Aries Spas • User Manual side temperature is very hot, you might try adding some ice, also. This will help speed the process of cooling the water. Jet Pump does not work There is an air lock inside the Jet Pump system (this is a common problem in in-deck installations, especially after spa has been drained and refilled). After turning system off, locate the Quick Coupler (it is black and has ridges to aid in gripping) closest to the pump that is not operating. Loosen it by turning counterclockwise until water starts flowing out.
Page 38 Aries Spas • User Manual much slower pace. You will not be able to see or feel the pull of its bottom suction, but will be able to see the water returning to the spa via the Circulation & Recovery Jets The Top Skimmer is not drawing everything in This is normal and takes no action on your part. Your spa's Circulating Pump moves small volumes of water over long periods of time for efficiency. Eventually, the surface items are drawn into the filter. Nothing works except Circulation Pump and Light The system has been incorrectly wired and is only receiving 110 power, instead of 220.
Page 39 Aries Spas • User Manual sary. Make sure there is no standing water under equipment. Reset GFCI. If GFCI immediately trips, the blower may still have moisture in it. It may take up to a few days for the blower to dry sufficiently to be able to reset the GFCI. If, after a few days, the problem persists, contact your spa dealer or Aries Service Department.. Light won't turn on The light bulb is burned out. In portable spas, take off the back of the light and change the bulb. Replacement bulbs can be found at most large automotive parts stores, or at Aries Store. Some inground spas are equipped with swimming pool-type lights, accessible from the front. Contact your spa dealer for bulb replacement instructions. Water is dripping from plumbing near the equipment area of my spa “Quick-Coupler” Union has become loose and needs tightening Your spa has been designed with Quick-Coupler Unions on either side of the equipment so that any necessary servicing can be done easily.
Page 40 Aries Spas • User Manual or replace if necessary. Make sure the O-Ring is seated properly in the groove of the lid. Replace lid, making sure that it doesn't cross-thread, and tighten it sufficiently. Water in spa is “ugly” or smells bad Water used to fill the spa was dirty, or water in the piping of the spa was dirty. It can take your spa a day or two to clear up when initially filled. Make sure your spa is in the “24 Hour” Mode and running continuously. In extreme cases, especially when a spa has been filled with well water, it may be necessary to drain and refill the spa, using filtered water. Water is not being circulated sufficiently. Make sure your spa is in the “24 Hour” Mode and running continuous- ly, so that the Ozonator (if so equipped) or chemicals will be properly mixed in the water. We recommend running the Circulating Pump...
Page 41: Trouble Codes
Aries Spas • User Manual ously. It is recommended that the Circulating Pump runs continually so that your Ozone Generator can operate round-the-clock. Algae has grown in the piping system of the spa. Make sure Ozona- tor (if so equipped) is working properly or that sanitizers are at the proper level. Use Spa Algaecide to kill algae and continue to use in maintenance doses to keep it from returning. If necessary, use the Deep Cleaning of Plumbing Lines method in the Maintenance Section of this manual. Trouble Codes If your computerized Equipment Pack senses an internal problem, it will put an error or trouble code in the digital readout area of your Topside Control. Following are the most common error codes, and the solution for each. " -- " " [temp] " (two bars flashing, alternating with your spa's temperature flashing). This appears when there is a low flow volume through the heater.
Page 42 Aries Spas • User Manual " loc " (loc flashing) You have programmed the Topside Control to prevent all functions (except for the light) from working. To unlock, push and hold the heat "up" (red triangle) button and jet button simultaneously for about 5 seconds, until " loc" disappears from the display.
Page 43 Aries Spas • User Manual Index Customized Circulation 10, 11, 12, 34 Acrylic Surface 24 Adjustment Arrows (heat) 7 Digital Controls 6 Adjustment Temperature Readout 7 Digital Temperature Reading 7 Air Blower 18 Disinfectants 22 Malfunctions 30, 31 Display Inversion 9 Air Button 18 Draining Spa 12, 25 Air Control.
Page 44 Malfunction 29 Lowering 23 Jets 14, 15 Raising 23 Circular 16 With Ozone Generators 23 Circulating 4, 14, 30 Placement of Portable Spa 1 Closed 30 Pump, Circulating. See Circulating Pump Neck 16, 18 Initial Startup 3 Recovery 17 Standard 15...
Page 45 Aries Spas • User Manual Temperature Up/Down Arrows 7 Temperature Readout 7 Test Button 5 Thermostat on Spa Side Control 6 Setting Desired Temperature 7 Setting During Freezing Temp. 12 Thermostat Setting 27 Top Loading Pressure Filter 19, 28 Top Skimmer 30 Topside Control Lock Mode 9 Trouble Codes 34...