Just Set Up Your Wave Spa? Your First-Fill Checklist

Congratulations on your new Wave Spa! Once it's assembled, follow this checklist before your first soak. Doing these steps in order protects your heater and gets you relaxing sooner.

For step-by-step assembly, see the instruction manual for your model (linked under Tech Specs on every product page).

Before you fill

• Check the drain plug at the bottom of the spa is inserted correctly and watertight.

• Plug directly into an earthed wall socket. Never use an extension lead, adaptor or timer.

• Don't set up or leave the spa outside for long periods below 5°C (41°F).

• Never switch the spa on when it's empty. This can permanently damage the pump and void your warranty.

Step 1: Fill with water

1. Fill with fresh, clean tap water using a hose, between the MIN and MAX lines. Don't overfill, because the level rises when people get in.

2. The fill water should be between 5°C and 30°C (41°F–86°F). Water that's too hot or too cold can trigger an error code.

3. Don't use rainwater, surface water, seawater or salt water.

Step 2: Run the first circulation cycle (filters out)

This makes sure water is flowing through the heater before it starts heating, which protects it from overheating.

1. Make sure the filters are not fitted yet.

2. Press the Filter button once and let it run for 10 minutes.

3. Then fit the hair stopper(s) and screw the filter cartridge(s) on hand-tight, followed by the filter protector cover(s). Not sure which filter you have? See Which Filter Does My Wave Spa Use?

Step 3: Test the RCD plug

Test the RCD (UK/EU) or GFCI (US) plug now, and before every use:

1. Press ON / RESET. The light turns red.

2. Press OFF / TEST. The light turns off.

3. Press ON / RESET again. If the light turns red, the RCD is working.

If it doesn't behave like this, switch off the spa and contact us.

Step 4: Set the temperature and heat

1. Press the HEATER button and set your temperature (maximum 40°C / 104°F).

2. Heating usually takes about 1–1.5°C (2–3°F) per hour, so allow plenty of time for the first heat.

3. Fit and secure the cover while heating. It keeps the heat in and debris out.

Step 5: Balance the water

Add spa chemicals following the manufacturer's instructions. Always add chemicals to water, never water to chemicals. Our Chemical Starter Kit has everything you need to get started.

Safety essentials

• Typical soaking temperature is 34–38°C (93–100°F). Water should never exceed 40°C (104°F).

• Children must be supervised at all times. The cover is not a safety cover.

• Don't use the spa after alcohol, drugs or medication that may cause drowsiness. Leave immediately if you feel uncomfortable or sleepy.

• If you're pregnant, or have heart disease, blood pressure, circulation problems or diabetes, consult your doctor first.

• Shower before use to help keep the water clean.

• Download and display our safety sign near your spa.

Looking after your spa

• Rinse your filters every 1–2 weeks. See our filter maintenance guide.

• Seeing a code on the controller? See our guides to the FC, SL and HL codes.

Need help?

Use the chat widget at the bottom of the page and tell us your spa model and what you're seeing, and we'll help you get set up.