Balboa Water Group TP240 / TP260 User Guide

Sequence Key

Understanding the symbols used in sequences:

• Red LCD Characters: Indicate flashing or changing characters, often used when adjusting settings like temperature.
• Blue LCD Characters: Indicate an alternating or progressive message, such as when viewing the Time-of-Day.
• TEMP Button: An "action" button used for adjusting Set Temperature, menu navigation, setting Filter Cycle Time, Heat Mode, etc.
• LIGHT Button: Used for navigation or selection. Crucial for saving settings.
• Hollow Dots: Indicate that the last setting was not saved. Press the LIGHT button to save.
• Solid Dots: Indicate that the last setting was saved. Settings are saved automatically after a pause.
• Dashed Line Around the Display: Indicates a menu item that depends on manufacturer configuration and may or may not appear.

Panel Interface & Terminology

TEMP Button(s): Control temperature and initiate actions while changing settings. Can be one or two buttons.

Main Screen: Displays the current water temperature by default. Pressing the TEMP button shows the Set Temperature, which flashes.

Set Temperature: The desired water temperature programmed by the user. Flashes when adjustable.

LIGHT Button: Controls spa lights and navigates menus. Essential for saving settings.

JETS Button: Controls one-speed or two-speed pumps depending on spa configuration.

AUX Button: Controls auxiliary devices like a blower or additional pump.

Main Menus & Navigation

Navigate the main menu by following sequences. Pause for a few moments to return to the Main Screen. Settings not saved if no button is pressed.

Navigation Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP (Set Temp flashes) -> Press LIGHT (while Set Temp flashes) -> Select Menu Item.

Menu Items may include: Temperature Range, Heat Mode, Time-of-Day, Flip Display, Lock Panel & Settings, Hold Function, Filter Cycle 1, Filter Cycle 2, Preferences, Utilities.

Set Time-of-Day

Setting the Time-of-Day is important for filtration and other features. Systems without battery backup will reset the clock on power loss, but filter cycles will still run as programmed if the spa starts up at the correct time.

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until TIME appears -> Press TEMP to adjust Hour -> Press LIGHT to select Minutes -> Press TEMP to adjust Minutes -> Press LIGHT to save.

Note: CE control systems default to a 24-hour time display. Users can choose between 12-hour or 24-hour display (see page 44).

Change the Set Temperature

Adjust the desired water temperature. Settings are saved automatically after a pause or can be saved immediately by pressing LIGHT.

Sequence (Single Temp Button): Main Screen -> Press TEMP (Set Temp flashes) -> Press TEMP repeatedly to adjust. Pause to save, or press LIGHT to save immediately.

Sequence (Warm/Cool Buttons): Main Screen -> Press TEMP (Set Temp flashes) -> Press WARM or COOL to adjust. Pause to save, or press LIGHT to save immediately.

Press-and-Hold: Holding a temperature button will continuously change the Set Temperature until released.

Note: Users can choose between Fahrenheit (°F) or Celsius (°C) display (see page 42).

Set Filter Cycle Times

Filter cycles are programmed with a start time and duration. The end time is calculated automatically.

Filter Cycle 1

Example: Set start time to 8:00 PM, duration to 3 hours (ends 11:00 PM).

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until F1 appears -> Press TEMP to view/set start time -> Press LIGHT to select minutes -> Press TEMP to adjust minutes -> Press LIGHT to save duration -> Press LIGHT or pause to return to Main Screen.

Filter Cycle 2

Filter Cycle 2 is optional and off by default. It can be enabled to provide additional filtration.

Example: Turn On Filter Cycle 2, set start time to 8:00 AM, duration to 3 hours (ends 11:00 AM).

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until F2 appears -> Press TEMP to turn On/Off -> Press TEMP to view/set start time -> Press LIGHT to select minutes -> Press TEMP to adjust minutes -> Press LIGHT to save duration -> Press LIGHT or pause to return to Main Screen.

Purge Cycles: At the start of each filter cycle, pumps or blowers may run briefly to purge plumbing.

Restrict Operations

The panel can be locked to prevent unauthorized use.

Lock Panel

Locks the panel interface, but automatic functions remain active.

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until LOCK appears -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT to select Panel Lock (ON) -> Press LIGHT to save.

Unlock Panel

Sequence: Main Screen (or any screen on locked panel) -> Press TEMP -> While holding TEMP, press LIGHT twice slowly -> UNLK appears -> Press LIGHT to return to Main Screen.

Lock Temperature & Settings

Allows Jets and other features to be used, but Set Temperature and other programmed settings cannot be adjusted.

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until LOCK appears -> Press TEMP twice -> Press TEMP to toggle between OFF (unlocked) and ON (locked) -> Press LIGHT to save.

Unlock Temperature & Settings

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> While holding TEMP, press LIGHT twice slowly -> UNLK appears -> Press LIGHT to return to Main Screen.

Invert Display

Flip the display orientation for better readability.

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until FLIP appears -> Press TEMP to flip display -> Press LIGHT to save.

Hold Mode

Disables pumps for service (e.g., cleaning, filter replacement) for 1 hour. Can be exited manually by pressing LIGHT.

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until HOLD appears -> Press TEMP to activate Hold Mode (1 hour duration) -> Message indicates pumps are on hold -> Press LIGHT to exit Hold Mode.

Hold Mode + Drain Mode

Some systems offer Drain Mode, which allows a pump to run during water draining.

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until HOLD appears -> Press TEMP to activate Hold Mode -> Press JETS to activate Drain Mode (if available) -> Message indicates Drain Mode is running -> Press JETS to return to Hold Mode, or LIGHT/TEMP to exit both.

Light Timer Programming

If available, this feature allows scheduling the spa lights.

Note: If "LITE TIMR" does not appear in the Main Menu, the feature is not enabled by the manufacturer.

Example: Turn On Light Timer, set start time to 8:00 AM, duration to 3 hours (ends 11:00 AM).

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until LITE TIMR appears -> Press TEMP to turn On/Off -> Press TEMP to view/set start time -> Press LIGHT to select minutes -> Press TEMP to adjust minutes -> Press LIGHT to save duration -> Press LIGHT or pause to return to Main Screen.

Spa Behavior

Filtration and Ozone

If no circulation pump, Pump 1 low and ozone run during filter cycles. If a circulation pump exists, ozone runs with it. Filter cycles are programmable. Purge cycles may run at the start of filter cycles.

Freeze Protection

If sensors detect low temperatures, pumps and blower activate automatically to prevent freezing. An optional auxiliary freeze sensor can provide additional protection.

Clean-Up Cycle

A clean-up cycle begins 30 minutes after a pump or blower is turned off or times out. The pump and ozone generator run for 30+ minutes. This duration may be adjustable.

Pumps

Press JETS to turn Pump 1 On/Off or switch speeds. Pump 1 may activate periodically in Ready Mode to check temperature. The heater pump runs whenever another pump or blower is on.

Circulation Pump Modes

Three modes are possible, determined by the manufacturer:

MODE 1: Continuous operation, turns off for 30 mins if water exceeds Set Temp by 3°F (1.5°C).

MODE 2: Continuous operation, regardless of water temperature.

MODE 3: Operates during temperature checks, filter cycles, freeze conditions, or when another pump is active.

How Does Your Control System Check Water Temperature?

The control system activates a pump to circulate water through the heater, which contains two temperature sensors. Water flow around these sensors allows the system to calculate the water temperature. This process is called "polling".

Heater Pump

The heater pump is dedicated to circulating water through the heater. It's either the circulation pump or a two-speed pump. When activated automatically, it runs at low speed.

Heat Settings

Manage spa heating for comfort and energy saving.

Heat Modes

1. READY MODE (RDY): Keeps water temperature close to Set Temperature 24/7. Ideal for consistent use.
2. REST MODE (REST): Heats only during filter cycles. Suitable for periods of infrequent use.
3. READY-IN-REST MODE (RRST): A subfeature of Rest Mode. If JETS is pressed while in Rest Mode, it switches to RRST for one hour, heating to the Set Temperature.

Sequence to View/Change Heat Mode: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until RDY, REST, or RRST appears -> Press TEMP to change mode -> Press LIGHT to save.

Note: In REST MODE, the Main Screen alternates between water temp and "REST". In RRST, it alternates between water temp and "RRST".

Temperature Ranges

HIGH RANGE: 80°F - 104°F (26.6°C - 40.0°C)

LOW RANGE: 50°F - 99°F (10.0°C - 37.2°C)

Freeze Protection is active in both ranges. Different ranges may be manufacturer-defined.

Sequence to View/Change Temperature Range: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until TR:HI or TR:LO appears -> Press TEMP to change range -> Press LIGHT to save.

Fill It Up!

Proper preparation and filling are crucial for spa operation.

Preparation and Filling

Fill the spa to the correct operating level. Open all valves and jets before filling to allow air to escape. Trapped air must be removed by priming the pumps.

Priming Mode

After powering on, the spa enters Priming Mode (4-5 minutes) to allow pumps to prime. The heater is disabled during this mode. Pumps can be energized manually. Turning power off and on again restarts priming.

Priming the Pumps

Priming removes trapped air. Observe jets for bubbles to confirm priming. Prime each pump individually.

Two-Speed Pump Priming: Press button once for low speed. Press again for high speed. Run high speed for 2 minutes. Repeat if necessary.

One-Speed Pump Priming: Press button once to turn on. Run for 2 minutes. Repeat if necessary. Momentarily turning the pump off/on may help.

Heater Pump Identification: In Priming Mode, press LIGHT. If water flows, a circulation pump is the heater pump. If not, a two-speed pump is the heater pump.

Important: Do not run a pump without priming for more than 2 minutes. Running a pump without priming beyond the end of Priming Mode can damage the pump or cause overheating.

Exiting Priming Mode

Priming Mode ends automatically after 4-5 minutes, or can be manually exited by pressing the TEMP button. After exiting, the panel displays dashes, then the water temperature after the control system cycles water through the heater for one minute.

Panel Messages

This section explains various messages displayed on the panel, often accompanied by Message Codes for fault logging.

General Messages

• Priming Mode: Indicates the spa is in Priming Mode. Heater is disabled. Circulation pump can be turned on with LIGHT.
• Unknown/Out-of-Date Temperature: Water temperature is not displayed until a pump runs for 1 minute. May also appear if a pump hasn't run for an hour in Ready Mode.
• Freeze Protection: A potential freeze condition is detected. Pumps and blower activate to prevent freezing. This is an operational message.
• Overheat: Water temperature reached 110°F (43.3°C). Spa functions are disabled. Resets automatically below 108°F (42.2°C).
• J29 Warning: J29 connector (heater disable input) is shorted at power-up. Contact dealer if persistent.

Water Flow Check List

• Ensure spa is filled sufficiently for proper flow.
• Check for closed valves (jets).
• Ensure suction covers are unobstructed.
• Prime the heater pump to remove trapped air.

Heater Related Messages

• Low water flow through heater: Insufficient flow to carry heat away. Heater restarts after ~1 min.
• Inadequate water flow through heater: Heater disabled due to insufficient flow. Press any button to reset heater start-up after resolving.
• Heater may be dry: Possible dry heater or insufficient water. Spa shut down for 15 minutes. Press any button to reset.
• Heater is dry: Not enough water in heater. Spa shut down. Press any button to reset heater start-up after resolving.
• Heater is too hot: Heater sensors detected 118°F (47.8°C). Spa shut down. Press any button to reset when water is below 108°F (42.2°C).

Temperature Sensor Related Messages

• Temperature sensor balance is poor: Sensors are out of sync. Contact dealer if message persists for over 1 hour.
• Temperature sensor "A" has failed: Sensor A or its circuit has failed. Contact dealer.
• Temperature sensor "B" has failed: Sensor B or its circuit has failed. Contact dealer.

Miscellaneous Messages

• No Communications: Panel not communicating with control system. Contact dealer.
• Panel Cable: Indicates test mode. Contact dealer.

Control System Related Messages

• Memory Failure - Checksum Error: Firmware problem. Contact dealer.
• Memory Warning - Persistent Memory Reset: Appears after setup changes. Contact dealer if persistent.
• Clock Error: Internal clock failed. Contact dealer. (Not applicable on all systems).
• Configuration Error: Spa will not start up. Contact dealer.
• GFCI Failure: System could not test/trip GFCI (North America only). May indicate unsafe installation. Contact dealer.
• A Pump Appears to be Stuck ON: Water may be overheated. Power down the spa immediately and contact dealer.
• A Pump Appears to have been Stuck ON: Similar to above, but occurred on last power-up. Power down and contact dealer.
• Water level is too low: Detected by water level detector. Pumps shut down until resolved.

Reminder

General maintenance reminders can be displayed, alternating with the Main Screen. Frequency and availability are manufacturer-defined. Press a temperature button to reset a displayed reminder.

• Check pH: May appear every 7 days.
• Check sanitizer chemicals: May appear every 7 days.
• Clean the water filter: May appear every 30 days. (See Hold Mode for pump operation).
• Test the GFCI or RCD: May appear every 30 days. Crucial safety test. If freezing conditions exist, reset immediately or drain spa. Users must be trained to test and reset.
• Change the spa water: May appear every 90 days.
• Clean the spa cover: May appear every 180 days.
• Treat the wood: May appear every 180 days.
• Change the water filter: May appear every 360 days.
• Change the mineral cartridge: As needed, per manufacturer instructions.
• Check the ozone and/or UV generator: May appear every 360 days.
• Your spa needs a service check: May appear every 365 days. Contact service organization.

Preferences

Fine-tune your spa's settings.

Preferences Menu Navigation

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until PREF appears -> Press LIGHT to view UTIL (next screen) or TEMP to navigate within Preferences.

Display °F or °C

Set the temperature display to Fahrenheit or Celsius.

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until PREF appears -> Press TEMP until F/C appears -> Press TEMP to toggle between °F and °C -> Press LIGHT to save.

Set 12 or 24 Hour Clock

Switch the clock display format.

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until PREF appears -> Press TEMP until F/C appears -> Press LIGHT until 24-12 appears -> Press TEMP to toggle between 24HR and 12HR -> Press LIGHT to save.

Turn On/Off Reminders Display

Enable or disable the display of reminder messages. Reminders continue running in the background.

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until PREF appears -> Press TEMP until F/C appears -> Press LIGHT until Reminders message appears -> Press TEMP to toggle between YES (On) and NO (Off) -> Press LIGHT to save.

Set Cleanup Cycle Duration

Adjust the duration of the cleanup cycle (0-4 hours in 30-minute increments). The heater pump runs during this cycle. Not available on all systems.

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until PREF appears -> Press TEMP until F/C appears -> Press LIGHT until Cleanup Cycle message appears -> Press TEMP to adjust duration (e.g., 2.5 to 3.0 hours) -> Press LIGHT to save.

Turn On/Off M8

M8 is artificial intelligence software that evaluates temperature readings to decrease device usage and wear. Not available on all systems.

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until PREF appears -> Press TEMP until F/C appears -> Press LIGHT until M8 appears -> Press TEMP to toggle between OFF and ON -> Press LIGHT to save.

Utilities

Helpful tools and information for spa technicians.

Utilities Menu Navigation

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until UTIL appears -> Press TEMP to view INFO, GFCI Test, or Fault Log.

Information Submenu (INFO)

Displays software ID, model number, configuration setup, voltage, heater wattage, DIP switch settings, and panel software version.

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until UTIL appears -> Press TEMP until INFO appears -> Press TEMP to cycle through information screens.

GFCI Test Feature

Note: Not available on CE rated control systems. UL rated systems may require a GFCI Trip Test for proper function.

The spa may automatically trip the GFCI within 1-7 days of startup. The GFCI must be reset. Subsequent trips indicate a ground fault.

Forcing the GFCI Trip Test

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until UTIL appears -> Press TEMP until GFCI Test Mode appears (ARMD or PASS) -> Press TEMP for TRIP to flash -> Press TEMP to perform test.

• Unsuccessful Test: "UNSUCCESSFUL TEST" appears. Spa is inoperable. Power off and contact a technician.
• Successful Test: Spa powers off. Power on the GFCI.

Reset GFCI Test Feature

Resets the GFCI test to its armed state (e.g., after moving the spa).

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until UTIL appears -> Press TEMP until GFCI Test Mode appears (PASS or ARMD) -> If PASS is shown, press LIGHT to navigate back to ARMD state.

GFCI Test Status

Check the current status (PASS or ARMD).

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until UTIL appears -> Screen displays ARMD or PASS.

• PASS: Most recent GFCI test was successful.
• ARMD: No test performed yet, or the last test was unsuccessful.

Fault Log

Stores up to 24 faults with details like time, message code, temperature, set temperature, range, heat mode, and sensor readings. Helps diagnose issues.

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until UTIL appears -> Press TEMP until INFO appears -> Press LIGHT until FAULT LOG appears -> Press TEMP to view faults (highest number is most recent) or LIGHT to return.

Fault Information Captured: Fault Number, Message Code, Day of Days, Time, Set Temperature, Temperature Range, Heat Mode, Sensor A Reading, Sensor B Reading.

Temperature Sensor Readings

View direct readings from the two temperature sensors (A and B) located inside the heater for diagnostic purposes.

Sequence: Main Screen -> Press TEMP -> Press LIGHT until UTIL appears -> Press LIGHT to turn On/Off sensor readings display. When On, readings from Sensor A and Sensor B appear on the Main Screen.

Safety and Installation Guidelines

Warning: Qualified Technician Required for Service and Installation.

• Use minimum 6AWG copper conductors.
• Torque field connections between 21 and 23 in-lbs.
• Provide readily accessible disconnecting means.
• Permanently connected.
• Connect only to a circuit protected by a Class A GFCI or RCD, located at least 1.5m horizontally from spa walls and in line of sight.
• CSA enclosure: Type 2.
• Refer to Wiring Diagram inside control enclosure cover and manufacturer's Installation and Safety Instructions.

General Warnings:

• People with infectious diseases should not use a spa.
• Exercise care when entering or exiting.
• Do not use immediately following strenuous exercise.
• Prolonged immersion may be injurious to health.
• Maintain water chemistry per manufacturer instructions.
• Equipment and controls must be located at least 1.5 meters horizontally from the spa.
• Test GFCI or RCD before each use.
• Shock Hazard! No User Serviceable Parts. Contact dealer or service organization for assistance. Installation by a licensed electrician is required.
• Water temperature in excess of 38°C (100.4°F) may be injurious to health.
• Disconnect electrical power before servicing.

CSA Compliance/Conformity (French and English):

• Test the ground fault circuit interrupter or residual current device before each use.
• Read the instruction manual.
• Adequate drainage must be provided if equipment is installed in a pit.
• For use only within an enclosure rated CSA Enclosure 3.
• Connect only to a circuit protected by a Class A ground fault circuit interrupter or residual current device.
• To ensure continued protection against shock hazard, use only identical replacement parts when servicing.
• Install a suitably rated suction guard to match the maximum flow rate marked.
• Avertissement: Toujours verifier l'efficacite du disjoncteur differentiel avant d'utiliser le bain. Lire la notice technique. Lorsque l'appareillage est installe dans une fosse, on doit assurer un drainage adequat. Employer uniquement a l'interieur d'une cloture CSA Enclosure 3. Connecter uniquement a un circuit protege par un disjoncteur differentiel de Class A. Afin d'assurer une protection permanente contre le danger de shock electrique, lors de l'entretien employer seulement des pieces de rechange identiques. Les prises d'aspiration doivent etre equipees de grilles convenant au debit maximal indique. Des temperatures de l'eau superieures a 38°C peuvent presenter un danger pour la sante. Deconnecter du circuit d'alimentation electrique avant l'entretien. Garder la porte fermer.

Information

TP200 Support

Trademark | Patent Notices: BALBOA WATER GROUP and its logo are registered trademarks. Products are covered by various US and Canadian patents. Other patents are pending.

Intellectual Property Advisement: Balboa Water Group owns all intellectual property related to its spa control systems. Users may not infringe on these rights and agree not to modify, reverse engineer, or decompile the software.