Quick answer: there is no single Arctic Spa symbol chart that fits every tub. Custom, Classic, Core, and older Arctic Spas use different topsides and software. First identify the spa series and approximate model year; then interpret the indicator, button, or display message with the matching manual.
Choose the correct control panel before decoding it
Arctic Spas has reused model names while changing control hardware. A Kodiak or Cub from one generation may not use the same keypad as a newer spa with the same name. Use this sequence:
- Read the model and serial plate before relying on the cabinet badge.
- Identify the series: Custom, Classic, Core, or an older/unknown generation.
- Note whether the control is a touchscreen or a button keypad and count the pump buttons.
- Photograph the complete display, including any small status icon and the exact capitalization of a code.
- Use the matching official manual page rather than a button sequence copied from a different panel.
The Arctic Spa model library helps identify current and legacy tubs. If the screen is showing a fault rather than a normal status symbol, use the Arctic Spa error-code lookup.
Common Arctic Spa control-panel indicators
| Indicator or state | What it means on the documented panel | Important limit |
|---|---|---|
| Pump 1 indicator | On the Custom Series topside, flashing means pump 1 low speed and solid means high speed. | Do not assume that visual behavior applies to every Core or Classic keypad. |
| Pump 2 or pump 3 indicator | A solid indicator shows the selected pump is running on supported Custom panels. | The number of pump controls depends on the installed equipment package. |
| Heater indicator | The controller is calling for heat and the heater is operating under normal safety conditions. | No heater indicator during a fault can be normal protection, not proof of a failed heater. |
| Light indicator | The spa light output is on. | Color and brightness controls vary with installed lighting. |
| Temperature/setpoint symbol | The screen is displaying or changing the desired set temperature rather than only the current water temperature. | Wait for the panel to return to its normal display before comparing the actual temperature. |
| Filtration indicator | A solid icon commonly marks an active filtration cycle; on documented Core/Classic controls, blinking can mark a temporarily suspended cycle. | A blinking filtration icon is not the same as FLO, FLC, or ER 00. |
| Wi-Fi symbol | On documented in.touch-equipped Classic controls, the color/state reports connection progress or failure. | Arctic/Global Spa and Gecko in.touch 3 systems use different app and module workflows. |
Display messages, locks, and normal operating states
| Display | Plain-English meaning | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| LocP | Partial keypad lock. | Use the partial-unlock sequence for the matching topside. |
| LocF | Full keypad lock. | Use the full-unlock sequence in the correct manual. |
| Sbb | Spa Boy Boost is active for its documented boost cycle. | Do not press Boost repeatedly to chase a chemistry reading. |
| boo | Spa Boy boost mode is shown on some documented controls. | Verify chemistry manually and follow the Spa Boy manual. |
| ER 00–ER 28 | Newer numbered Custom Series error family. | Look up the exact number before resetting or buying parts. |
| FLO, FLC, HL, HPt, Hd, Prr | Older-style flow, temperature, heater, or probe messages. | Use the focused error guide; one power reset is enough to test for a transient state. |
Arctic Spa control-panel and manual finder
| Your spa | Best starting document | Related owner guide |
|---|---|---|
| Custom Series | Official Custom Series topside and quick-reference pages | Filtration settings and purge guide |
| Classic Series | Official Classic Series topside page; confirm software and installed in.touch option | App and Wi-Fi guide |
| Core Series | Official Core Series topside page and Core filtration menu | Core FS/Fd/FF settings |
| Older or unknown | Use the serial plate, model library, and the PDF manual nearest the manufacturing year | Current and legacy model library |
Button labels and menu paths can also change with software. If a menu shown online is missing, stop before forcing a different sequence. Record the software version when available and ask the Arctic Spas dealer to match the controller, topside, and installed options.
Related owner help
- Start with the Arctic Spa troubleshooting router
- Identify the filter system and replacement path
- Identify Spa Boy versus Onzen
FAQs
Why do Arctic Spa control-panel symbols differ?
Arctic Spas has used different topsides, controllers, and software across Custom, Classic, Core, and older models. Identify the series and year before treating a symbol or button sequence as universal.
What does a flashing pump 1 indicator mean?
On the documented Custom Series topside, a flashing pump 1 indicator means low speed and a solid indicator means high speed. Other panels can display pump state differently, so confirm the matching manual.
What do LocP and LocF mean?
LocP indicates a partial keypad lock and LocF indicates a full keypad lock on documented Arctic Spas control systems. Use the unlock sequence in the manual for that exact topside.
Why is the filter icon blinking?
On documented Core and Classic controls, a blinking filtration indicator can mean the cycle was temporarily suspended. Normal filtration resumes after the manual interruption period unless another fault is present.
Where can I find the correct Arctic Spa manual?
Start with the model and serial plate, identify Custom, Classic, Core, or an older generation, then use the official Arctic Spas manual directory and the model library linked in this guide.
References
This independent owner resource uses the official manufacturer material below. Spa Filter Adapter is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or approved by Arctic Spas or Gecko Alliance. Features and menus vary by model year, series, controller, software, and installed options.