2012 Best of Class Spas information and overview PDF
Wiring Diagram
Wiring Diagram 2
Owners Manual
All of our products are ETL certified to UL standard 1563.
All of the suctions in our spas meet Ul certification and are VGB compliant
All of our locking covers are Ul/ASTM certified.
All of our plumbing is UL certified and meets IAPMO.
Should I install my hot tub spa inside or outside?
Each location has its pros and cons. Outside installations may compromise some of your privacy, however you could add screens, fencing, or landscaping to be more secluded. The outside weather may be a deterring factor, although many people absolutely love the experience of lounging in their hot tub while a light rain or snowflakes are falling. Awnings can be built to shelter the effects of weather. It should be noted for those of you who have not experienced it, hot water raises your body's core temperature, so you will normally not feel cold even when exiting a hot tub outdoors in the dead of winter.
Inside installations will add humidity to the air in your home. It is imperative that proper ventilation be maintained to control this moisture and to prevent mildew and other damage. If you decide on an inside installation, be sure to take into account the draining and filling of the unit. There are two other important questions: will it fit through your doorway, and is your flooring strength adequate? On the plus side, you will have privacy and convenience. Your unit and cover will also be fully protected from the weather.
What's the story on ozonators?
Ozonators are electric-powered devices for helping to sanitize spa water by introducing a form of oxygen called ozone into the water. This ozone attaches itself to bacteria and mold and oxidizes them. Ozonators will reduce the amount of chemicals you need on a monthly basis by aiding in the sanitization of the water. Since ozone has no residual sanitizing ability, it only works while the spa is in operation. In order for the ozone to do its job, the spa should be run a few hours per day. Ozonators must be used in conjunction with another sanitizer such as bromine or chlorine as well as a shock treatment.
Can I save money by using an ozonator?
Yes, the use of an ozonator will cut down the amount of conventional sanitizer needed. The reduction will vary from 25% to 35%, depending on spa usage and amount of run time. These devices use electricity to run, but the amount is really quite minimal.
Is it expensive to operate a hot tub spa?
It doesn't have to be. A primary cost is heating the water. Our spas will cost, on average, only about a dollar a day, even in cold climates. The other major cost is water chemistry and maintenance supplies.
How do I winterize my hot tub spa?
First, turn off power to the spa. Remove the filter encasement(s) and remove the filters from your spa. Drain your spa using the drain fitting and leave the drain in the open position. We recommend the use of a wet shop vac to drain any remaining water in the tub. Loosen the fittings (pump unions) connecting all your pumps to the jet lines. Completely remove the drain plug on all of the pumps. If possible use a shop vac to "blow" out the lines. Set the vac to blow and place the hose on each jet forcing out as much water as possible. Wipe down the tub and filter area as best as possible. Most local pool and spa companies will be able to perform this service for you (if you choose not to do it yourself).
What is meant by the spa pump's horsepower (HP) rating?
Spa manufacturers use two different ratings for their pumps: "Continuous Operating HP" and "Brake HP". Continuous Operating is the amount of HP the motor is capable of producing while the spa is in operation. This is the meaningful rating. Brake HP is the momentary HP the motor produces at startup, before dropping to Continuous HP. Brake HP is marketing hype.
Is there an easier way to remove my spa cover?
Use of a cover removal device will allow one person to remove the spa cover with ease, and without back strain. These devices come in a variety of models, from simple slides to more elaborate units, which allow for easy lifting and out-of-the-way storage of your spa cover. They are easy to install as well, usually requiring little more than a screwdriver to set-up.
How often should I drain my spa?
Depending on usage and type of sanitizing system, a spa or hot tub with well-maintained water, which is treated with non-chlorine shock, should be drained and refilled every three to six months. This is necessary because of the amount of total dissolved solids becomes excessive, making it difficult to maintain sanitizer effectiveness and water balance.
What should I use to clean my spa?
It is very important that you use a cleaner designed for spas and hot tubs. While household cleaners are great for cleaning jobs around the home, they can cause foaming and alter the pH of your water. Quality spa surface cleaners are safe for all materials, contain no abrasives, are non-toxic and will not cause water foaming.
How often should I clean my filter cartridge?
Depending upon bather load, it is generally a good practice to rinse your filter cartridge once a month with fresh water from a garden hose to dislodge hair and other foreign matter. Every 3 to 6 months, and with each water change, your filter cartridge should be soaked in a filter-cleaning compound designed for this purpose. We recommend the rotation method: have two filters on hand, one in the spa and a clean, dry spare. Remove the dirty filter and rinse thoroughly, being careful to spray between the pleats. Soak the filter in a 5-gallon bucket of cleaning solution, overnight or according to the instructions on the package. You can now install your clean spare while the dirty one is soaking. After soaking, rinse again and set aside to dry completely. With this method, your filters will last much longer, and you will never have to wait to use your spa.
When should hot tub filters be replaced?
Filters are generally good for about a full year of usage. After that, they become less efficient in trapping foreign matter because of deterioration of the media. With the filter rotation method described in “How often should I change my filter cartridge”, this means you would replace a pair of cartridges every 2 years.
Is there anything I can do to protect my hot tub cover from damage?
The main factors in spa cover deterioration are sunlight, dirt, and acid rain. Fortunately, there are now great products available to protect and clean vinyl covers, and greatly extend their life. Select a cover protectant that contains a UV blocker for fade resistance. Regular use will keep the vinyl supple, prevent cracking and fading, and seal out damaging moisture. Avoid products which contain silicone oil-- these will actually cause premature failure of the vinyl, when exposed to sunlight. Don't forget to clean and treat the inside surfaces of your cover as well-- this is very important.
Why does my water overheat?
Several conditions could cause water to overheating, including: a stuck thermostat, a stuck relay or contactor in your spa pack, or even leaving your pump on high speed for an extended period of time. Another possibility is a defective high-limit switch, likely in conjunction with one of the above.
What is causing my water temperature to fluctuate?
A temperature sensor unit that is not insulated properly could cause this. In these cases, the sensor may actually be affected by changes in air temperature. Other causes could include: a dirty or clogged filter, sticky or defective thermostat, contactor, or relay.
What can cause the GFCI to keep tripping?
A properly functioning Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) activates when it senses even a very small voltage leak or short to ground. They are designed to react very quickly. The cause can be many things. To isolate the culprit, shut-off the power source, then disconnect the system's major components including: ozonator, pumps, heater, etc. Power on. If it now trips, your problem is isolated to the wiring or circuit board. If the GFCI does not trip, plug these things back in one at a time until the GFCI trips again. (Make sure power is off whenever connecting or disconnecting components). When it trips, you've located the culprit. If it is not one of these, check for bad wire connections, missing or burnt insulation or chafes, and loose screws or corrosion on terminals. If that is not the problem, sometimes a heater element that is going bad will cause the GFCI to trip. Another cause may be a defective GFCI unit itself. They do not last forever, and especially in damp locations, they can fail and cause erroneous tripping. Other electrical devices in your home, especially those with motors, can send a pulse through the circuit that can actually trigger a GFCI to trip. These include washing machines, garage door openers, air conditioners, furnaces, and house fans. Monitor your spa's GFCI to see if it trips when one of these devices is switched on. Make sure that the supply circuit to the spa is adequate.
Can we use our outdoor spa year 'round? Our winters get very cold.
Winter operation of your spa in cold climates is fine, if you take reasonable precautions to prevent freeze-damage to your equipment. During very low temperatures, you should either run your spa continually, or set the thermostat to run the pump(s) at a safe temperature. Check your owner's manual. In extreme low temperatures, 24-hour operation is the safest bet. It is important to check your water level daily, because if it gets too low, the pump could air lock. Remember to keep your filters clean. A clogged filter could cause the flow (pressure) switch to shut down your pump, and this could result in frozen equipment. Keep a clean, dry, spare filter on hand at all times, especially in the winter. Keep your cover securely strapped to prevent heat loss. If your cover is in poor condition, consider replacing it. A waterlogged cover has very little insulating value, and will cost you a lot in energy waste.
What is the importance of pH?
Maintaining proper pH level is essential for proper operation of a hot tub spa, regardless of the sanitizing method used. If the pH falls too low, resulting in water that is too acidic, the sanitizer will dissipate rapidly, pipes and motor seals will corrode, and bathers will notice eye discomfort. If the pH rises too high, resulting in water that is too basic or alkaline, damaging scale may form, water may become cloudy, and eye discomfort may also result.
What is the recommended pH range?
The National Spa & Pool Institute recommends a range of 7.2-7.8, with 7.4-7.6 being considered ideal.
How is pH measured?
We recommend using test strips to measure pH.
How do I raise my pH level?
The pH level can be raised by the addition of a product containing sodium carbonate. This will also raise the Total Alkalinity. Sodium bicarbonate can also be used, but will have less of an effect on pH.
How do I lower my pH level?
The pH level can be lowered by the addition of a product containing sodium bisulfate. Although Muriatic Acid is an excellent pH reducer, it is not recommended because its fumes and skin burning properties.
What is the importance of total alkalinity?
Maintaining the proper range of total alkalinity will prevent wild fluctuations in pH, will reduce the tendency toward corrosion of pipes and fixtures, and will reduce the scale forming potential of the spa water.
What is the recommended total alkalinity level?
The National Spa & Pool Institute recommends a range of 60 to 180 parts-per-million (PPM) with an ideal range of 80-100 PPM. Generally speaking, between 80-120 PPM is good.
How is total alkalinity measured?
You can measure total alkalinity with test strips.
Is there a way to prevent algae formation?
Yes. Regular shock treatment and maintaining sanitizer to proper levels will help greatly. If algae persists, add a spa algaecide. Keep you spa at normal operating temperature at all times to minimize the possibility of algae formation, as it does not thrive as well in hot water.
What is the cause of cloudy water?
Cloudy water can be caused by pH that is too high, but the most common cause is excessive contaminants in the water. Make sure your filter is clean and in good condition. Add a water-clarifying agent.
What causes the musty odor I detect when I open my spa cover?
A common cause is mold or mildew growth on the inside of the spa cover itself. These organisms grow here because they don't come in contact with the sanitizer. Condensation forms on the inside ceiling of the cover, then rains back down into the spa water, contaminating it as well. The remedy is simple: clean the inside of your cover at least once a month and apply a cover protectant to help prevent re-growth of mold.
WHY EXERCISE IN THE WATER?
Just being in the water causes you to exercise. Every move you make in the water has to be deliberate to resist the continual pressure of the water on your body.
Water Resistance
Because the water is a thicker medium than air, by moving in the water the amount of resistance from the water can range from 4 to 44 times that of air. Using the resistance of the water in exercise is like exercising with weights or machines on land, but safer.
Buoyancy
In chest deep water, approximately 90% of your body weight is buoyant, therefore you really are bearing only 10% of your weight when you exercise. Exercise in the water is much safer and your joints and muscles are virtually stress-free.
Water Temperature
The water temperature is the same all year long. You do not need to contend with the variability of the elements; heat, cold, rain, snow, wind etc.
Cooling Effect
Because of your constant movement in the water, cool water is continually moving around you, washing away your sweat and cooling you while you are exercising. You never feel over- heated and sweaty.
Massaging Effect
The hydrostatic pressure of the water on your body, joints, muscles and internal organs, massages and comforts all parts your body while you exercise. You never feel fatigued.
WHY GET IN THE WATER?
Because aquatic exercise is a low impact exercise and it is great for people suffering from joint problems or issues with weight. When you work out in the water you get a total body workout and a fast way to improve general strength, stamina, and cardiovascular fitness. Cardiovascular benefits include the strengthening of the heart muscles a lower heart rate, and improvement of oxygen delivery to muscles.
As a regular physical activity, aquatic exercise can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
The pressure provided by the water helps to stimulate circulation and also provides additional resistance to train against. Swimming provides effective weight management, depending on your weight, 100-200 lbs, you could burn an average of 250-520 calories in a half an hour of swimming.
Water Aerobics or aquatic fitness (exercises performed in a vertical position in either shallow or deep water), can burn between 400 and 500 calories in one hour.
F&Q On Steam Showers:
Does the unit come in one piece or in panels?
All units come in panels. The great thing about our Stand Alone Steam Showers is that they are pre-assembled with pre-drilled holes. You can move any of the units through a standard 32" doorway for easy access into remodeled homes, basements, and other unique situations.
Can I fit the parts through a standard doorway?
Yes, all units can fit through a standard 32" doorway. Even units with a whirlpool tub will fit through any space larger than 26".
What voltage does the unit run on?
110v
What type of Electrical Connection and Breaker will I need?
One 30 AMP GFCI Breaker.
What can I use to clean the shower and tub?
Non-Abrasive cleaners will work great on this surface. There are no special ways to treat this type of acrylic surface. Continue to clean the unit just as you would your normal fiberglass or acrylic shower. Spray a non-abrasive cleaner onto the surface and wipe down or wash away weekly.
I would like to place on the second floor, will there be a weight problem?
The unit is about 500 lbs.+water and your weight, and that is definitely a case by case type question. Please consult your contractor based off of these weights we have provided.
Will I receive a tracking number for the status of my order?
After purchasing your steam shower, you will receive a confirmation of purchase in your email. You will then receive a phone call just as the shipment is leaving our warehouse to ensure the model number of the unit is exactly what you ordered. You will then receive an email with the tracking number and delivering carriers website for easy tracking of your shipment right to your door.
How soon will my shipment be sent after purchase?
Online orders placed prior to Noon on any weekday will be sent the same day. Online orders place after noon on any weekday will be shipped the following weekday. Online orders placed on the weekend will be shipped first thing Monday.
Can I use aromatherapy with these steam showers?
Yes, aromatherapy can easily be used inside the steam emitting cup.
What does the inline heat pump do?
The inline Heat Pump is attached to the water pump, and the heat pump will maintain the water temperature in the tub portion of the unit.
What's the costs for shipping to Canada, Alaska, and Hawaii
Canadian shipments are normally Free Shipping. In the case that our shipping company will not deliver to you directly, we may have to charge an extra fee to cover the trucking costs. The duties and taxes are the customer's responsibility. Alaska and Hawaii shipments are case by case, so please contact us for a quote.
How is the warranty handled, and what will I have to do to get parts in the future?
We stock all the parts for the steam showers. If a part is defective, you will need to return the part to us, and then we will repair it or send out a new replacement. The process is fast and efficient.
How many Gallons per Minute do these steam showers use?
1.5 - 2 Gallons Per Minute (GPM)
How many HOT/COLD Connections are required?
Regardless of the number of showerheads, all units have one hot/cold connection.
Where is the HOT/COLD Connection located?
The connection is located behind the shower hot/cold controls which differs per unit. Normally the hot/cold is about 30" from the the floor on the back of the unit. Flex hoses are included for easy hook ups no matter where your current hot/cold is located. Refer to the listing page of each steam shower for the exact location which can be seen in the diagrams towards the bottom of the page.
Where is the steam generator located?
The steam generator is located underneath the tub and on certain units, it is placed on the back of the unit. All generators are mounted to the frame or screwed to the back of the unit so that they do not take up an room beyond the dimensions of the shower. All of the steam showers will sit flush against the wall.
Do I need an access panel?
The steam showers are designed to be free standing units so that in case of an issue behind the unit, you can easily slide the unit away from the wall for access. The plumbing and the electrical connections are flexible so that you can easily make this happen. If at all possible, an access panel is a terrific option in case of any future issues.
OVERVIEW STEAM SHOWERS
There are 2 types of steam showers.
Walk-In Steam Showers
Combo Steam Shower (with a whirlpool tub)
Walk-In Steam Showers utilize a steam generator to produce a sauna effect. They also have different types of therapeutic devices (acupuncture jets, foot massage, chromatherapy lighting, and aromatherapy).
They function like a normal showers but also have technological advancements (e.g. FM Radio, cooling fans, music, etc.)
The type of shower consumer’s purchase is a matter of preference, size or space requirements, and functions/features.
Combo Steam Showers have all the same features as the walk-in steam shower but add the whirlpool bathtub.
Some of the more popular features that customers will ask for are the foot massager, the overhead rain shower head, dual shower heads, and ozone sterilization.
Since all steam showers are manufactured in China, the companies that carry them in the US typically privately label them. This means that they will call them different model names but once you see a competitor you can easily identify typically as one of 3 manufacturers.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Walk-In Steam Showers come in both free-standing models and retro-fit models. Retrofit models are made to go into an existing space (enclosed on the side so you don’t see the sheetrock). Most free standing models come in either a left or right unit. This means that either the left or right side has a side panel on it that you see when it’s slid against the wall. The other side is unfinished.
Left hand units have shower doors that slide from right to left. For example a left hand model would slide against the left hand wall and the shower door would slide from right to left(toward the wall) to get into the shower. The side panel would also be on the right. The left side that’s against the wall would be exposed.
Steam Showers come in either 110V or 220V. It’s very important to get this correct b/c hooking a 220V circuit up to a 110V unit would ruin the control box. All Mesa units come in 110V and all Platinum units come in 220V. Mesa units can be upgraded to a 220V(special order).
The drains for all steam showers are flex drains. This means they are not hard-pipe. They are flexible and so the drain itself can be mounted anywhere under the footprint of the steam shower.
The steam showers are not vented so there is no need for an exhaust.
WARRANTY AND SHIPPING
All steam showers come with a 1 year parts warranty and 7 year acrylic shell warranty.
They weigh between 400 and 800 lbs depending on the type of shower.
They are shipped on 1 pallet to the customer’s door. We always utilize lift gate service for residential deliveries.
You must advise customers to check the packaging prior to accepting delivery. If they notice any holes in the packaging they refuse the shipment. Otherwise any damage will not be covered by the trucking company (see our Shipping Policy). Once Steam shower has been signed for, it can not be returned unless defective and a replacement is needed. Any modified stem shower is not returnable.
STEAM SHOWER BRANDS
We carry the 2 most popular brands of steam showers. Mesa is the entry line steam shower brand. It’s very popular because of cost and the features they include. Eago Platinum is the luxury line. They feature heavier duty components, more glass, and 6000 watt steam generators. You will also hear this line referred to as Ariel Platinum.
MESA
All Mesa Steam Showers come in 110V. They require a 30 AMP GFCI electrical connection.
Mesa uses a 3000 watt steam generator which is the standard size generator for most applications.
Many of MESA’s steam showers and combo’s can be come in blue glass versions. For example an 803A represents a clear glass version and the 803XP represents the blue-glass version. Note**these models also have different features besides the glass. For example the 803A has a foot massager but the 803XP does not. You will need to reference the product listing for the differences but most customers make the choice based on the glass color.
Mesa steam showers feature gray trim with either clear glass or tinted blue glass. Most Mesa showers have sliding glass doors for entry.
Again, all the MESA units come in 110V but can be special ordered in 220V which takes 8-10 weeks.
EAGO PLATINUM
All Platinum Steam Showers come in 220V. They require a 20 or 30 AMP GFCI connection. Platinum steam showers are luxury line.
Platinum showers feature all the same functionality as Mesa but can be distinguished by the tinted black glass, sleek design and glass black panels. Platinum steam shower also utilize solid brass components as opposed to metal or plastic components on the MESA unit. The warranty is still the same (1 year parts, 7 year shell).
Platinum doors are all hinged as opposed to sliding.
Most Platinum steam showers use a 6000 watt steam generator, wooden floors, and ceiling lights. (all upgraded features).
Platinum steam showers come in both retrofit and free standing models. They only have one shower with a whirlpool bathtubs; all other models are just the steam shower.