Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs
This section of the website will assist in solving simple problems with your spa. If the problem cannot be solved using these procedures, contact your authorized Bullfrog
Spa Dealer.
Technical
Installation
Chemicals
quick jump guide |
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What is the best chemical to use? |
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Why does my spa smell? |
Delivery
quick jump guide |
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How do I prepare for delivery? |
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What do I use to move my spa? |
Maintenance
| Technical |
Why does my GFCI keep tripping?
The neutral wire from the spa to the breaker box must be wired into the breaker itself and not the bus bar. This is because it is not a dedicated 240v spa. If the neutral is wired to the bus bar, the breaker will instantly trip at power up. Refer to wiring diagram.
The installation of all spas must be in accordance with national and local wiring rules. Always have a licensed Electrician perform the electrical installation. Each Bullfrog Spa and Tadpole Hot Tub is manufactured and tested to a standard that provides maximum protection against electrical shock. Improper wiring may prevent the spa from operating safely which could result in electrical shock, injury or death. Improper wiring could also lead to a malfunction of the spa’s equipment and risk of fire.
If the spa is located in an area that is experiencing hot weather, it is normal to have the spa water temperature rise. Keep spa in economy mode, minimize filtration hours and open lid for heat escape. Never leave a spa unattended while the cover is open do to safety issues.
If OHH is displayed on the control panel, this means that the thermometer has detected spa water temperature above 110 degree F.
What are the electrical wiring requirements?
Click here for wiring requirements as stated in our Delivery/Installation section.
What are the differences between 120v and 240v spas?
- 120v spas are only available on single pump, smallest 3.0 BHP motor.
- Heat up and recovery time is longer with 120v spas (approximately 4x longer to heat than 240v spas).
- 120v spas can not heat while the high speed jets are running; this can be a problem in colder temperatures.
- Advantage to 240v pump is that high-speed pump and heater can run at the same time.
How do I program the topside controls?
Refer to pages 24-29 in your owners manuals.
| Installation |
My spa won’t work after initial start-up or after draining and refill, how do I fix this?
Alternate between high and low speed on the pump at least 6-7 times to purge the system.
The wet-end of the pump has a bleed valve, loosen this until all the air escapes and water starts to drip out or, loosen the union on the pump to let the air out until you see water. Do not attempt this while the spa pump is running. If this does not resolve the problem, please contact your authorized Bullfrog Spa Dealer.
My spa is not level, is this a problem?
If your spa’s pad is slightly sloped it will not affect the performance of the spa or its structure, however, there should be no dips, sags, or unevenness in the pad. Most patios are built to slope away from the house for drainage purposes. There should be no more than a ½” (1.27cm) slope in an 8‘ (2.44m) run. Do not use shims to level the spa, this could create tension on the spa shell which might result in damaging your spa.
Can I sink my spa into a deck?
Yes, make sure to have access to the equipment area (spa door). This is located on all Bullfrog spas underneath the top-side control. Allow ample room for drainage. Attention: Normal installation is covered under the warranty but removal from a deck is not covered under warranty.
What is acceptable support underneath the spa?
Firm, solid, flat surface, cement is most common, synthetic concrete, pea gravel, pavers, railroad ties are other options. Click here for more information on spa foundation
| Chemicals |
What is the best chemical to use?
As a manufacturer we do not recommend what to use because water is different based upon region (calcium, pH levels, minerals, metals, etc.). See your local Bullfrog Dealer for best service.
Your chemical levels need to be adjusted. If your spa’s chemical levels are maintained correctly you should never have an odor.
| Delivery |
How do I prepare for delivery?
Please refer to delivery/installation page of our website to answer all delivery questions.
A cart or dolly that can support at least 900 pounds. Carpets can be used to drag a spa on most surfaces.
Attention: Do not lift the spa on the door side because the door side cannot support the weight of the spa and you will break the door. Do not lift from the shell lip or outer cabinet panels, lift from the fully supported base of the spa.
Maintenance |
How do I clean my filters?
Every 6-8 weeks spray the filter off with a high-pressure garden hose attachment. Depending on use, a degreaser or de-scaler is recommended every 4-6 months. Refer to the owner’s manual.
How do I maintain my spa cover?
Wash weekly with water. Use saddle soap or vinyl conditioner monthly to keep it looking new.
What do I use to clean the hot tub shell?
Refer to local Bullfrog Spa Dealer for Gel gloss or any shell cleaner that will not interfere with water chemistry. Recommended at the time of each spa draining.
Use our “Locate a dealer” page on our website.
Where can I buy replacement accessories?
Your local authorized Bullfrog Spa Dealer.
Do I need to keep the spa cover on when the spa is not in use?
Yes! Keep spa covered at all times and out of direct sun-light. Never leave a spa unattended while the cover is open do to safety issues.
To winterize, follow these steps:
WARNING: Prior to winterizing your spa, it will be necessary to Super Sanitize the spa water as per the instructions in the Water Chemistry section of the owner's manual. This procedure will help prevent the growth of bacteria, algae and fungi in any areas of plumbing that may not be fully free of water after you drain your spa for its period of winterization.
Step 1: Drain the water.
Step 2: Remove the drain plug from the pump(s), loosen all PVC pipe unions, and pump air-bleed valves in the equipment compartment. Do not replace the plugs, tighten the unions or close the air-bleed valves until the spa is de-winterized.
Step 3: Clean the entire spa.
Step 4: Remove filter cartridge(s) and clean. Allow filter to dry fully and store in a dry place.
Step 5: Secure the cover to the spa utilizing the tie downs and locking system. In areas where heavy snow is anticipated, place a large piece of plywood (or its equivalent) on top of the spa cover to assist in supporting the cover with the added weight of the snow. Remove snow off the cover following each snow storm.
WARNING: To avoid water from becoming trapped between the floor suction fitting and the filter pipe close the slice valve in front of the pump leading to the filter. Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove the remaining water out of pipe by placing the vacuum end over the filter hole. In a two-pump spa, first plug off one filter then vacuum out the water. Or pour 1-2 gallons (4.55-9.09l) of RV antifreeze into the filter hole.
NOTE: RV antifreeze is nontoxic and does not require evacuation at start up.
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- FAQs
- Maintenance
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