FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
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Electrical
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Your Softub® has been carefully engineered to provide maximum safety against electrical shock. Installation must be within 10 feet of a three-prong grounded outlet with an isolated power supply of 15 amps 115 volts. The outlet should be a minimum of 5 feet from the spa. Connecting the Softub® to an improperly wired circuit, or using an extension cord, may cause damage to the motor unit
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Your Softub® can be plugged into any isolated 15 Amp 115 volt. We recommend it to be on a dedicated breaker of at least 15 amps minimum, and we prohibit the use of extension cords. In light of the design of the HydroMate® system, the Softub® is the most energy-efficient hot tub available, gallon for gallon. The sealed, high-density insulated cover keeps the heat from escaping when the tub is not in use. Your Softub® can be kept at 104 degrees and be used for 20 minutes every day on average of $15 a month!
Chemical
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Softub® recommends using water-treatment products that have been tested and approved for its liners. Softcare® products and the FROG® @ease system are recommended. Other chemicals have not been tested by Softub® and could potentially damage the spa. Using unapproved chemicals is at the owner’s risk and may void the warranty.
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Softub® has approved the FROG® @ease Floating System. It combines sanitizing minerals with SmartChlor® technology and uses up to 75% less chlorine. The system automatically regulates sanitizer levels and is designed to provide softer-feeling water with less chlorine odor.
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No. Softub® does not recommend saltwater chlorine generators. Testing has shown that saltwater can corrode metal components and eventually cause leaks. Using an unapproved generator or chemical system may also void the Softub® warranty.
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The labeling was changed because of California regulatory requirements; the product itself did not change. Softub® warns against potassium monopersulfate (non-chlorine) shock. For proper shocking, Softub® recommends either super-chlorinating with Softcare® Chlor or using FROG® Jump Start.
Surround Deck Accessory
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The natural-stain surround is an optional accessory made from incense cedar. It is not required for the operation of the Softub®, but provides additional usable space and a finished appearance. It comes weatherized and can either be stained or left natural.
The cedar surround is available for the Legend® 220, Resort® 300 and Portico™ and adds approximately 2 feet around the spa. It ships separately as pre-drilled components and requires some assembly.
The Boca Poly-Rattan Surround is also available for the Legend® 220, Resort® 300 and Portico™. It adds approximately 3 feet around the spa and ships separately in sections that require assembly.
Temperature Controls
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Press the up or down arrow once to display the current temperature setting. Continue using the arrows to select your desired temperature. The selected setting remains on the display for about five seconds before the display returns to the current water temperature.
The thermostat automatically turns the spa on and off as necessary to maintain the selected temperature.
When a “P” appears on the display, press the JETS button. After the pump has operated continuously for approximately two minutes, the current water temperature will be displayed.
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“P” indicates the initial pause required before the system can accurately measure the water temperature. Water near the temperature sensors needs to circulate before a reliable reading can be taken. It can take up to approximately two minutes for the temperature to register and the “P” to disappear.
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The Softub® heats while the motor runs, and heating a freshly filled spa with cold water can take close to 48 hours. If the motor is running, the spa is also heating.
If it does not reach the selected temperature, check that the lid is properly secured and that the air control is closed. If the problem continues, contact a local Softub® service center.
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Softub® spas have an adjustable temperature range of approximately 60°F to 104°F. Temperature is controlled with the up and down arrows on the HydroMate® control panel.
Because the system operates from a standard household outlet and is designed for energy efficiency, allow roughly 48 hours for cold water to reach the desired temperature after filling or refilling the spa.
Once the desired temperature is selected, the SmartChip™ system automatically maintains that setting until you change it.
Filtration
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The Softub® automatically determines when filtration is necessary. The filter icon illuminates while a filtration cycle is running.
The controls are programmed for two 15-minute filtration cycles during each 24-hour period, approximately 12 hours apart. If the spa has already run to heat the water during the previous 12 hours, the scheduled filtration cycle is skipped because the water has already circulated.
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Softub® filters are available in two styles: Pre-VGB and the current design.
The Pre-VGB filter is intended for older tubs with the smaller suction cover, which measures slightly less than 4 inches and uses an offset attachment ring. The current filter attaches to the larger 5¼-inch suction cover using a full-diameter attachment ring.
Jets
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Depending on the Softub® model, the spa comes with 4, 5, 7 or 8 jets.
When the water has reached the selected temperature, the jets normally stop. Pressing the JETS button overrides the temperature setting and operates the jets for a 20-minute cycle. Press the button again if you want to stop them before the cycle ends.
If the water temperature drops sufficiently during use, the thermostat may keep the motor running after the 20-minute cycle. If the motor stops, simply press JETS again.
The JETS button can also be used during the standby portion of Overnight or Energy Saver Mode.
Always maintain the water level at least 2 inches above the highest jet to prevent water from spraying out and to avoid unnecessary strain on the motor.
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Jets can be pulled straight out of the side of the tub. Grasp the outer housing containing the three Softub® logos, slide your fingers behind it and pull outward. Rotating the jet slightly while pulling can also help. Some force may be necessary.
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First check the three plumbing connections between the HydroMate® and the tub and make sure they are securely tightened and properly connected.
If the connections are secure but the system continues to leak, contact a Softub® service center or Softub® technical support for assistance locating the source of the leak.
Liner
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Softub® liners and exteriors are designed for long-term durability in a variety of weather conditions, including sun, rain, frost and snow. Softub® uses materials including LeatherTex®, SynTex® and Berwick for its exterior surfaces.
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Yes. The existing skin can be removed and replaced to give the spa a renewed appearance.
Softub® recommends having this performed by a certified technician because openings for the jets and drain must be precisely cut into the new vinyl. An incorrect cut could cause the liner to leak. Contact a Softub® service center for availability and pricing.
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For simple stains, first wipe the area with a damp cloth to remove buildup, then clean it with a mixture of baking soda and water.
For tougher stains, drain the spa and clean the affected area using mild soap and a sponge.
For ink or particularly difficult stains on the inner vinyl only, Softub® recommends carefully using VM&P naphtha with a rag. Do not use VM&P naphtha on the exterior skin because it can permanently damage the material.
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Wrinkling can result from excessively high chlorine levels, low pH or other water-chemistry problems. If chemical imbalance has caused the vinyl to become hard or brittle, replacing the spa’s skin may be necessary.
Before installing a new liner, correct the water chemistry so the replacement liner is not damaged in the same way. Softub® also recommends contacting support for assistance with chemical maintenance and relining.
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Slimy or slick walls usually indicate that sanitizer or chlorine levels are too low. Softub® recommends draining the water and thoroughly cleaning the spa rather than simply adding more chemicals to the existing water.
When refilling, add chlorine gradually and test the water after each addition until the sanitizer reaches the recommended range of approximately 2–3 ppm. If too much chlorine is added, operate the jets with the air control open and the cover removed to help the excess chlorine dissipate.
Water chemistry should be checked after each use, or at minimum twice per week. Maintaining proper chemistry is important both for water safety and to prevent permanent liner damage.
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The floor plate is originally attached to the tub wall at the factory using heat lamination. A Softub® service center can repair it using a similar process.
An appropriate adhesive may also be used to reconnect the materials, but adhesive should not be applied directly to the inner vinyl because it could bond to the wrong area inside the spa.
Location/Set-Up
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A Softub® can be placed on a smooth, level and sufficiently strong surface such as concrete, tile, wood, brick or sand. Make sure there are no sharp objects underneath the spa before setting it up.
Avoid locations where excessive dirt and debris are likely to be tracked into the water. Check local regulations for requirements such as childproof gates or other safety measures.
If installing the spa on a deck or elevated structure, make sure the structure can safely support the total filled weight of the spa.
Softub® also recommends using a protective cover to improve cleanliness and energy efficiency and help extend the life of the spa.
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Unlike many traditional hard-sided spas, a Softub® generally does not require excavation, construction or a dedicated concrete pad. You simply need an appropriate level surface that can support the filled spa, either indoors or outdoors.
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Yes. Softub® spas are designed to operate in below-freezing temperatures.
Keep snow accumulation cleared from the spa and motor unit, and make sure the Softub® remains powered during freezing conditions. The system should remain operating to maintain the water temperature and protect against freezing.
Owner’s Manual
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A replacement copy can be downloaded from the Manuals & Instructions section of the Softub® website.
Parts & Accessories
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Softub® recommends purchasing accessories and water-treatment products through authorized dealers and distributors or through its online store. For in-person purchases, use the Softub® Dealer Finder to locate an authorized dealer or service center.
Seating
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Softub® spas use barrier-free seating, meaning the entire interior can function as a seat. This allows occupants to position themselves freely rather than being restricted to molded seats.
The larger models may include a raised therapy seat or Therapy Station™ bench that provides a higher seating position and access to strategically positioned therapy jets.
A matching water booster seat is also available as an accessory.
Service
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Because Softub® spas are lightweight and portable, the tub can be drained and transported in a pickup truck if service is required.
If the issue involves only the HydroMate® motor pack, that component can potentially be shipped to an authorized Softub® service center. The service center can diagnose and repair the unit and return it to you.
Softub® technical support can also be contacted for assistance.
Vinyl
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The exterior surfaces of the tub, lid, motor unit and vinyl cover use materials such as LeatherTex® or SynTex®, marine-grade vinyls designed to resist mildew, cracking and discoloration.
Clean the vinyl using mild soap and water, then rinse with clean water. Avoid abrasive cleaners, abrasive tools and solvents.
Softub® advises against typical automotive vinyl protectants because they may accelerate deterioration. Aerospace 303 Protectant is the vinyl protectant approved by Softub®.
For spas kept outdoors, Softub® strongly recommends using its protective cover to reduce UV exposure, keep rainwater out and help keep exterior surfaces clean. Never cover the spa with transparent plastic, as this can damage the tub.
Contact a Softub® dealer if the exterior becomes torn or punctured.
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Contact an authorized Softub® service center to obtain the appropriate exterior vinyl patch kit for your particular spa. The service center can help identify the correct repair material.