Find Answers to All of Your Installation Questions
- How long will it take for the spa to reach desired temperature?
- How do I drain the spa and how often should I do this?
- What should I consider when placing the spa in position?
- What should my filtration cycle be set at?
- How do I know the ozone is operating properly?
- What health and safety precautions should I be aware of?
- What are the electrical specifications of the unit?
- Why are the pumps "humming" after filling the spa?
- What are the large control knobs on the lip of the spa?
- Why are the large control knobs (diverters) difficult to turn?
- What are the smaller knobs on the spa lip?
- There is one jet I would like to turn off, how do I do that?
- Can I install my spa on composite decking?
How long will it take for the spa to reach desired temperature?
Initially, your hot tub will take 5 to 14 hours to warm to a suitable temperature. This will depend on your starting water temperature and the ambient air temperature. It is best to warm your hot tub with the cover on and leave the cover securely locked on the unit when you are not using it. It is far more efficient to bring your spa to desired temperature and maintain the temp as opposed to decreasing the temp between soaks and waiting (and paying) for the water to get to temp for each use.
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How do I drain the spa and how often should I do this?
All PDC Spas come with drain valves that are located in the base of the spa or as a hose bib on the AdvantagePack. Simply remove the service panel or end cabinet and attach a garden hose to the valve, turn it to flow and release the water from the spa. You must first reduce the temperature setting to the lowest point and disconnect power to the spa at the GFCI breaker before draining. Most manufacturers recommend draining and cleaning your spa no more than 3 or 4 times per year, depending on how frequently you use it and how well you maintain your water. In most cases, this simple process will only take about an hour to accomplish. Details on this procedure can be found in your owners manual. Remember to open the head screw on the filter lid and open the hose bibs to release any trapped air that could "lock" your system's flow.
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What should I consider when placing the spa in position?
Our units look fantastic and are easiest to service when access is available from all sides of the hot tub when the unit is sitting above grade. If you feel you must sink the hot tub in a deck or limit the access to the unit you may incur costly repair bills and inconvenience when attempting to gain access to its components. This type of install is not recommended at PDC. Since we make such a variety of hot tubs it is always best to check with your PDC Spas consultant before you decide on a restrictive location or paint yourself into a corner. Call us, we will be glad to help you find the right model that suits your location needs. If you choose a unit with an end cabinet, leave ample access for servicing and with a slimline unit, the best scenario is to have all four sides of access panels within easy reach. Also consider the seating arrangement of the spa for an easy "step into" spot and also the view from each of those seats. If you purchase a cover removal device., allow for an additional 24 inches in the back and at least six inches on each side for the pivot bar.
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What should my filtration cycle be set at?
The amount of spa usage will determine what your filtration cycle needs to be set at. As a general guideline is to begin at 14 hours a day. If the spa water is cloudy, additional time should be added to the filter cycle. Consult your control manufacturer at 1-800-78-GECKO for programmed filtration cycles and periodic purging offered on the spaside digital controls.
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How do I know the ozone is operating properly?
During the filtration cycle, check the front of the ozonator for a green light. If the green light is lit on the ozonator, it is in proper operation. The ozonator will be located on the side of the spa with the equipment. Remove the panel and notice the ozonator is in a blue plastic housing attached to an upright support.
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What health and safety precautions should I be aware of?
Check to be sure that the spa you buy is listed by a recognized independent testing agency such as UL or ETL.Use a qualified electrician to connect the electrical service to the spa.Make sure the cover comes with a locking system to prevent unauthorized use. Many spas feature locking control panels, as well.Keep appliances and other electrical devices away from the spa area.Always observe the warnings about spa use by small children, pregnant women, people with certain health conditions and people under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
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What are the electrical specifications of the unit?
Typically all of our hot tubs are 220V - 50Amp requiring installation with an approved G.F.C.I. breaker. For specific information and an illustration of a typical GFCI installation, go to the ownership - spa prep and maintenance section of this site and download the document for your electrician's reference. A licensed electrician is required to properly bring power to the unit. The 50 amp requirements and installation of the spa may be more costly than a cheaper 110V plug-in unit, although for proper heating and simultaneous pumping action you will be satisfied with the higher amperage draw.
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Why are the pumps "humming" after filling the spa?
Bleed air out of the black valve on the top of the filter and open the hose bib until you get a steady stream of water. For pumps 2 & 3, unscrew the unions on the return side of the pumps slightly to let any air out that might be locked in the system.
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What are the large control knobs on the lip of the spa?
These large knobs are called diverter valves (Ultra Massage Selector). Depending on what spa you have it will either have one or two of these, measuring about 4 3/4" in diameter. These knobs control water flow to specific spa seat zones. By having the knob in the center position, water flow is balanced between two zones. Turning the knob in either direction causes the water flow to be diverted to that seat section. This allows you to choose a powerful or more gentle massage.
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Why are the large control knobs (diverters) difficult to turn?
The diverter valves will be difficult to turn when the pump is on. These valves could be adjusted when the pump is off. If the valve is difficult to adjust even when the pump is off, there is probably debris in the control. The sand or grit can be removed by first turning off the spa, removing the handle and unscrewing the cap. Remove the diverter assembly and clean. Reverse the steps to re-assemble.
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What are the smaller knobs on the spa lip?
These controls are termed air controls which introduce outside air into the jets increasing the jet action. There will be several of these on your spa. They can be used not only to adjust the jet pressure, but also to reduce the spa water temperature if desired.
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There is one jet I would like to turn off, how do I do that?
The majority of jets can have their intensity lowered by turning the jet counter-clockwise. Most of the jets can be nearly closed off entirely. Jets in the neck collar on certain spa models do not have the ability to shut completely off.
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Can I install my spa on composite decking?
Yes, composite decking can be used as a base for your spa. It offers durability and a low-maintenance surface that complements the look of your outdoor space. However, please be aware of the following: Composite decking is sturdy and provides a stable foundation for your spa. It resists moisture, reducing the risk of warping and rotting. Static electricity can build up on composite decking material surfaces and produce a small static shock when a grounded metal surface such as railing, door, etc., is touched. This condition can be decreased with the use of a product such as ACL Staticide®. For more information, please visit the composite decking manufacturer's website.
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