Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why am I getting error messages and system not working?
A. Most error messages are due to incorrect salt levels. Salt too high or too low will disable the Ace system. Refer to the video below.
Q. Can I use ozone with my ACE® system? The Hot Springs service has removed or wants to remove it.
A. Yes you can use ozone and it is a perfect compliment to salt systems. Ozone will reduce the sanitizer load and allow for running the Ace at a lower power level which increases the life of the cell. Ozone also reduces the need for shocking the water. If your ozone cartridge is over 2 years old, it is most likely not producing ozone and must be replaced. In many versions, you cannot use Hot Spring Ozone with the ACE System.
Q. The Scepter has 2 black wires and my Ace wires are 2 different colors. What do I do?
A. The colors of the wires do not matter and can be plugged into either connector. It is beneficial however to reverse the connectors monthly to get the most from your cell.
Q. My cell has some white scale build up, is this normal?
A. Yes this is perfectly normal and can be cleaned off by soaking the cell in white vinegar for 20 minutes.
Q. My readings are ok, why isn’t my system working?
A. There are many reasons for this. The Ace doesn’t always read correctly so check the following:
- Make sure cell is clean. If you see white scale buildup soak cell in white vinegar for 20 minutes.
- Verify salt level with test strips. The Ace is designed to work in the 1500-2000 ppm salt range but can be off at the lower and top range. 1750 is ideal. If you are at 1500, add 1/2 to 1 cup salt and let circulate for an hour. Run jets for 5 minutes, shut off breaker, switch cell leads and turn back on. It will take up to 5 minutes for system to re-boot and it should go into boost mode where you will see bubbles coming from the cell.
- If you are at 2000 ppm or above, drain some water (up to 1/4 to 1/2) and refill with fresh. Shut off breaker, switch cell leads and turn back on. It will take up to 5 minutes for system to re-boot and it should go into boost mode where you will see bubbles coming from the cell. If it comes up call for service you probably need to drain more water.
- If your salt level is in the 1700-1800 range, try switching the breaker off, reverse the cell leads, then turn breaker back on.
Q. What is phosphate remover and why should I use it?
A. Phosphate remover simply removes phosphates which are in every water supply I have tested whether city or well water. Phosphates can also be introduced from freshly laundered swim suits. Phosphates consume chlorine which makes your cell work harder to keep up with demand, lessening the life of the cell. Once you have used phosphate remover you may be able to turn the output down. Phosphates can cause mystery problems as well as foaming.
Q. Why do you sell a kit instead of just the replacement cell?
A. The reason is simple. I want you to have success. The 4 in 1 test strips give you the basic, need to know info on your water. The salt test strips are an important diagnostic tool when your panel indicates cell off line or needs service. This is because the Ace system doesn’t always read the salt correctly. Proper salt levels are the single most important thing you need to operate your Ace system. Phosphate remover reduces sanitizer demand so you can operate at a lower level, thereby increasing cell life.
Q. Why do you place your cell outside the filter?
A. The cell works better. When the filter gets dirty, it reduces water flow through filter. There are only 2 small holes in the top of the original cell for water to flow through which is why they recommend cleaning the filter cell is in weekly. Now you don’t have to worry about the filter getting a little dirty and shutting the system down. Also, since the housing is clear, it makes it easier to see if cell is working or needs to be cleaned.
ACE® is a registered trademark of Watkins Manufacturing Corp., makers of Hot Spring® spas. Pool Spa Efficiency LLC is not affiliated or endorsed by Watkins in any way.
