The Genesis BLU FUSION is an automated bromine generator system designed for spas, hot tubs, and swim spas, offering an efficient and cost-effective method for water sanitation. This system utilizes naturally occurring bromide salt in the spa water and converts it into pure bromine through a low-voltage electrolysis process. This approach aims to reduce the need for traditional chemical additives, minimize spa draining and refilling cycles, and improve water quality and clarity.
Function Description:
The core function of the Genesis BLU FUSION system is to continuously generate bromine from sodium bromide salt dissolved in the spa water. This process, called electrolysis, creates pure bromine that sanitizes the water by eliminating organic materials such as oils, sweat, and skin cells left behind by bathers. After sanitizing, the bromine reverts back to sodium bromide, completing a perpetual cycle. The system is designed to produce low levels of bromine, free from calcium, binders, chlorine, and fillers often found in brominating tablets and powders. This allows for extended periods between drain and refill times, potentially up to a year, depending on usage.
System Components:
A complete Genesis BLU FUSION system includes:
- Electronic Controller: A NEMA 4X/IP65 enclosed controller with 12 different power settings plus a "BOOST" feature. It incorporates duty cycle control for up to 97% efficiency, automatic voltage detection (110 to 240 volts AC input), and automatic polarity reversal to ensure effective electrode cell operation.
- Bromine Generating Electrode Cell: A patent-pending graphitic electrode cell responsible for the electrolysis process. It is crucial that this cell is installed vertically; horizontal installation voids the warranty.
- TRU BLU Sodium Bromide Test Strips: These strips are specifically for testing sodium bromide levels, not bromine residuals.
- Barbed Elbows: Two 1" to 1½" barbed elbows for plumbing connections.
- Phosphates Test Kit: Included to help monitor phosphate levels in the spa water, as high phosphates can significantly reduce bromine residuals.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Power Consumption: 20 Watts, 34 VA Maximum.
- Voltage Detection: Automatic detection of 110 to 240 volts AC (50-60 Cycles).
- Bromine Output: Adjustable with 12 settings plus a "BOOST" feature for accelerated bromine production.
- Polarity Reversal: Automatic reversal every 2 minutes to ensure efficient electrode operation and reduce scaling.
- Electrode Cell Installation: MUST be installed vertically.
- Controller Enclosure: NEMA 4X/IP65 rated.
- Sodium Bromide Requirement: Uses 99% pure, granular sodium bromide (NaBr). Recommended initial dosage is 1.2 lbs per 100 gallons (0.143 kg per 100 liters) to achieve 1300-1500 PPM/mg/L.
- Recommended Bromine Level: Maintain between 3-5 PPM/mg/L.
- Minimum Circulation Time: 8 hours per day for optimal bromine generation.
- Mounting Location: The supply unit must be at least 1.5 m from the pool and mounted behind a wall preventing access from the system while the spa is in use. The electrode must be installed 4" or greater from the outlet of the electrode connection to the return jet.
Usage Features:
- Adjustable Bromine Output: The Logix Controller allows users to adjust bromine output with 12 settings, catering to different spa sizes and bather loads.
- "BOOST" Feature: A temporary setting that doubles bromine production for eight hours of pump circulation, ideal for occasional heavy bather loads without altering the regular power setting.
- Automated Operation: The system automatically produces bromine when the circulation pump is "ON" and during low-speed circulation.
- Controller Codes: The intelligent controller displays codes (LC for Low Conductivity, BST for Boost, OE for Open Element, HC for High Current) to alert users to potential issues or operational statuses.
- "LOC" Feature: A locking feature on the Top-Side controller to prevent unintended adjustments, ensuring the system manages spa water automatically. Unlocked by pressing the "increase" key for 3 seconds.
- Water Chemistry Monitoring: Users are encouraged to regularly test pH, Total Alkalinity, and Bromine levels using test strips. A phosphate test kit is included to detect phosphates, which can deplete bromine.
- Pre-Filter Recommendation: Filling the spa with a carbon-based pre-filter (e.g., Pure Fill brand) is recommended, especially for well water or non-municipal sources, to reduce metals and ensure a successful start.
Maintenance Features:
- Filter Maintenance: Filters should be cleaned monthly by immersing them in a 5-gallon bucket of clean water with a non-phosphate, non-phosphonic acid filter cleaner. Keeping a second filter set for rotation is advised, and filters should be allowed to dry naturally to extend their life.
- Electrode Cell Cleaning: If conductivity is low or scaling is suspected, the electrode cell may need cleaning. This involves lowering the spa's pH to 6.4 with a "pH down" product, adding scale remover, circulating for 24 hours, and then adjusting pH back to normal. For more aggressive cleaning, the electrode can be removed and submerged in household vinegar for at least 30 minutes.
- Water Draining and Refilling: With the Genesis BLU FUSION system, draining and cleaning the spa is recommended at least once per year, following the initial start-up instructions.
- Sodium Bromide Replenishment: Sodium bromide levels typically remain stable once added and usually only need to be re-dosed when the spa is drained and refilled. Regular testing of sodium bromide levels is recommended at start-up and if error codes appear.
- Vacation/Non-Use Setting: For extended periods of non-use, the power setting should be lowered to half the normal setting to prevent elevated bromine levels.
Warnings and Important Considerations:
- Electrical Safety: The system must be connected to a circuit protected by a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) in the US or a Residual Current Device (RCD) in Canada. Live parts must be inaccessible, and Earth/Ground appliances must be permanently connected to fixed wiring.
- Chemical Use: NEVER use chlorine or cyanuric acid in the spa. Only non-chlorine shock should be used. Only EPA-registered sodium bromide (in the US) or scheduled/registered sodium bromide (in Canada) should be used.
- Water Source: Do not fill the spa from a residential water softener. If using well water or non-municipal water, test for Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and metals, and use a metal remover if TDS is above 500 PPM.
- Safety: Children should always be supervised around the spa. Never enter a spa if bromine is not present or if the water is cloudy. Always cover the spa when not in use. The system is for outdoor use only.
- Phosphates: Phosphates act as "super-food" for algae and deplete free bromine. If detected, use a phosphate remover and thoroughly clean the filter.
The Genesis BLU FUSION system aims to provide a low-maintenance, environmentally friendly, and effective solution for spa sanitation, ensuring clean, inviting, and safe water.