All electrical work must be performed by a licensed electrician and conform to all national, state,
and local codes. When installing and using this electrical equipment, basic safety precautions
should always be followed, including the following:
DANGER: To reduce the risk of injury, do not remove the suction fittings of your spa or hot tub.
Never operate a spa or hot tub if the suction fittings are broken or missing. Never replace a
suction fitting with one rated less than the flow rate marked on the equipment assembly.
WARNING: Prolonged immersion in hot water may induce hyperthermia. Hyperthermia occurs
when the internal temperature of the body reaches a level several degrees above the normal
body temperature of 98.6°F. The symptoms of hyperthermia include dizziness, fainting,
drowsiness, lethargy, and an increase in the internal temperature of the body. The effects of
hyperthermia include: 1) unawareness of impending danger; 2) failure to perceive heat; 3)
failure to recognize the need to exit spa; 4) physical inability to exit spa; 5) fetal damage in
pregnant women; 6) unconsciousness resulting in a danger of drowning.
WARNING: To Reduce the Risk of Injury —
• The water in a spa should never exceed 104°F (40°C). Water temperatures between 100°F
(38°C) and 104°F (40°C) are considered safe for a healthy adult. Lower water temperatures are
recommended for young children and when spa use exceeds 10 minutes.
• Since excessive water temperatures have a high potential for causing fetal damage during
the early months of pregnancy, pregnant or possibly pregnant women should limit spa water
temperatures to 100°F (38°C).
• Before entering a spa or hot tub, the user should measure the water temperature with an
accurate thermometer since the tolerance of water temperature-regulating devices varies.
• The use of alcohol, drugs, or medication before or during spa or hot tub use may lead to
unconsciousness with the possibility of drowning.
• Obese people and people with history of heart disease, low or high blood pressure,
circulatory system problems, or diabetes should consult a physician before using a spa.
• People using medication should consult a physician before using a spa or hot tub since some
medication may induce drowsiness while other medication may affect heart rate, blood
pressure, and circulation.
WARNING: Risk of electric shock – Install the control center at least five (5) feet (152.4cm)
from the inside wall of the pool and/or hot tub using non-metallic plumbing. Canadian
installations must be at least three (3) meters from the water.
WARNING: Failure to heed the following may result in permanent injury or death:
Risk of electric shock – Disconnect all AC power when insatalling or servicing this system.
• Children should not use spas or hot tubs without adult supervision.
• Do not use spas or hot tubs unless all suction guards are installed to prevent body and hair
entrapment.
• People using medications and/or having an adverse medical history should consult a
physician before using a spa or hot tub.
• People with infectious diseases should not use a spa or hot tub.
• To avoid injury, exercise care when entering or exiting the spa or hot tub.
• Do not use drugs or alcohol before or during the use of a spa or hot tub to avoid
unconsciousness and possible drowning
• Pregnant or possibly pregnant women should consult a physician before using a spa or hot
tub.
• Water temperature in excess of 100°F (38°C) may be injurious to your health.
• Before entering a spa or hot tub measure the water temperature with an accurate
thermometer.
• Do nut use a spa or hot tub immediately following strenuous exercise.
• Prolonged immersion in a spa or hot tub may be injurious to your health.
• Do not permit any electric appliance (such as a light, telephone, radio, or television) within 5
feet (1.5m) of a spa or hot tub.
• The use of alcohol, drugs or medication can greatly increase the risk of fatal hyperthermia in
hot tubs and spas.
• Water temperature in excess of 100°F (38°C) may be hazardous to your health.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of electrical shock, connect the grounding terminal in the
metal enclosure to the grounding terminal of your electric service or supply panel with a
continuous copper conductor having green insulation and one that is equivalent in size to the
circuit conductors supplying this equipment. In addition, a second wire connector should be
bonded with a no. 8 AWG (4.115mm) copper wire to any metal ladders, water pipes, or other
metal within five (5) feet (1.52m) of the tub.
WARNING: A ground-fault circuit-interrupter must be provided if this device is used to control
underwater lighting fixtures. The conductors on the load side of the ground-fault circuitinterrupter shall not occupy conduit, boxes or enclosures containing other conductors unless
the additional conductors are also protected by a ground-fault circuit-interrupter. Refer to
local codes for complete details.
The AutoPilot Pool Pilot Commander PPC10 Wireless Control System brings wireless control to a
new level of simplicity and affordability. The following features make the system distinctive:
• Easy to Use — with simple, push button controls and a clear, easy-to-read display panel
• Everything You Need — includes the functionality and control called for in nearly every
installation.
• Dependable — with Z-Wave
inexpensive repeaters that plug into available electrical outlets to help extend the RF signal
range of the entire system. Z-Wave technology eliminates intermittent signal problems
experienced with many other systems.
• Cost Efficiency — a superior system, easier to install and maintain, with better
dependability, and at a cost that’s competitive with any other system available.
The standard configuration for the Commander PPC10 Pool/Spa Wireless Control System
configuration is shown in Figure 1-1. You can order individual components for a custom
configuration or system as indicated.
Receiving Device (PPC-CON)
®
technology that lets you expand your system with
Two-wire connection (RS485) for
control of variable-speed motors
Antenna can be remotely located
using a Standard Cat 5 Ethernet
cable with RJ45 plugs.
Internal selector switch for
120 / 240 VAC operation
Spare 0.10 Amp Fuse
Offers timer capability and can
control up to five preprogrammed
configurable circuits.
Handheld Controller (PPC-REM).
Additional units can be ordered
separately.
Terminals for two-wire
connections to remote
temperature sensors
Weatherproof outdoor enclosure
can be mounted directly to an
existing enclosure.
Approved snap-in wiring
separator for use with low
voltage heater control circuit
The main function of the Handheld Controller is to transmit user commands
to the PPC-CON Receiving Device and/or Z-Wave home control devices,
and to display the status of the installed equipment.
The unit floats if thrown in the pool or spa, is water-submersible, shock
resistant, and requires three (3) AA batteries. Expected battery life is about
one year in typical use.
When the components of a specific system are linked together into a
network, unique network ID codes supplied by the PPC-REM prevent
unauthorized use of the system by neighboring systems.
24-Volt Valve Actuator (PPC-ACT)
Designed with quality in mind, AutoPilot’s 24-volt valve actuators
provide reliable control of 2-way and 3-way diverter valves for pool/
spa combinations and water features. The water flow can be altered
for specific applications through the adjustable cam, which rotates
diverter valves to multiple degree settings. The cam settings can be
easily adjusted by simply removing the lid. These valve actuators are
compatible with all pool/spa valves currently offered in the industry and
will retrofit into all pool/spa control systems.
One: System Overview 9
• 24VAC Input Voltage
• Automates compatible diverter valves for
pool/spa combos
• Adjustable cam rotates diverter valves to
multiple degree settings
• Designed to operate most 2-way and 3-way diverter valves
• Shipping Weight - 3 lbs. (1.4 kg)
• Agency Approval - CSA/C-US
Water Temperature Sensor (PPC-WTR)
The AutoPilot Water Sensor (PPC-WTR) monitors both pool and spa water
temperature, depending on the position of the diverter valves. Installation is
necessary for the thermostatic control to work. The sensor can be ordered
separately.
Designed as part of the Commander system and for aftermarket
and retrofit applications, the PPC-ACTC unit snaps into almost any
Intermatic enclosure and controls the 24 volt supply for up to three
valve actuators. For this installation, if an enclosure must be added, we
recommend PPC-CASE.
• 120 or 208-240 input voltage
• Controls up to three valve actuators
• Agency approval – CSA/C-US
• Valve Actuator Supply: 24VAC 40VA
24-Volt Valve/Pump Switch with Enclosure (PPC-ACTE)
PPC-ACTE includes the PPC-ACTC with a raintight enclosure for new
installations or those that do not have an existing Intermatic timeclock
housing already in place.
• 120 or 208-240 input voltage
• Controls up to three valve actuators
• Agency approval – CSA/C-US
• Valve Actuator Supply: 24VAC 40VA
80 Amp Bus PE Outdoor Enclosure (PPC-80CP)
One empty 22”x14”x4.25” PE Outdoor Enclosure with 80 Amp Bus.
The PPC-ACTC can be mounted inside this enclosure and can house 8
circuit breakers.
The following diagrams show several plumbing and wiring examples of installations for pool and
spa that share a single filter pump, filter, and heater. If you are installing a pool only or spa only,
these diagrams will not apply.
• 1- Speed Pump: Must be powered from
Terminal 3.
• 2-Speed Pump: Must be powered from
Terminal 3 for High-Speed and Terminal 4 for
Low-Speed.
• Booster Pump: Must be powered from
Terminal 6.
• Actuator Control: Must be powered from
Terminal 7.
• Heater Control: Must be Terminals 8 & 9.
• The metal enclosure must be ground bonded
in compliance with national, state and local
codes.
Terminal 1 must always be Neutral when using
120 VAC power.
Terminal 1 must be L2 when using 240 VAC.
Terminal 2 must always be Hot or L1 for both
120 VAC and 240 VAC.
Terminal 3 must always be connected to the Hot
terminal of the pump.
Terminal 3 must always be connected to the
HIGH SPEED terminal of a 2-speed pump.
AC POWER & STATUS indicator
Manual ON/OFF Switches
CONTROL
120V
240V
POWER IN & CONTROL
POWER SUPPLY
LOAD 1
INCLUDE/EXCLUDE switch
12345
POWER
SUPPLY
123456789
1
2
3
4
Terminal 4 must always be connected to the
LOW SPEED terminal of a 2-speed pump when
using a 2-speed motor.
Terminal 5 is the input supply for both terminals
6 & 7. This terminal is rated at 15 A. maximum.
Terminals 6 & 7 are function selectable with a
maximum combined rating of 15 A.
Terminal 8 is the input supply for terminal 9.
The load is rated at 15 A. maximum.
Terminals 8 & 9 can be used for low voltage
provided the Low Voltage Divider is used to
separate the Low Voltage conductors from Line
Voltage conductors. Low voltage conductors
must exit the cabinet through a separate
opening. (See Figure 3-1)
Figure 3-2 PPC-CON Master Control Center Power Terminal identification
CAUTION: The PPC-CON is a control device and NOT a safety disconnect. A proper sized fused
disconnect or breaker of no more than 125 Amp capacity must be provided in the power supply circuit.
Proper gauge wire should be based on local code requirements of amperage and wire length.
1. To avoid fire, shock, or death, turn off power at circuit breaker and test that power is off
before wiring.
2. Select a location for the installation that is near the pool/spa equipment; at least five (5) feet
distance or more from either the pool or spa and at least five (5) feet above ground level. The
PPC-CON must be mounted in a vertical (upright) position on the top of the enclosure.
3. Select the knockouts to be used. Remove the inner 1/2” knockout by inserting a flathead
screw driver in the slot and carefully punch the knockout loose and remove the slug. If a
3/4’ knockout is required, remove the outer ring with pliers after removing the 1/2” knockout.
Smooth the edge with a file if required.
Water Sensor (PPC-WTR)
Figure 3-3 PPC-CON Master Control Center Upper Terminal identification
Solar Sensor (PPC-WTR)
Remote Antenna Connector
Serial Connection (RS485)
NOTE: Observe polarity when
connecting pump manufacturer’s
cable to the Serial connection.
12345
4. Place the metal enclosure in the desired mounting location and mark the three mounting
holes. Install the top screw first and then hang the enclosure by the keyhole. Then install the
bottom screws, tightening all screws for a secure mounting.
5. Install electrical conduit as needed to comply with all national and local electrical and safety
codes.
6. If a low voltage circuit or a heater control circuit is to be used, remove the low voltage
knockout from the PPC-CON enclosure.
7. Install electrical conduit as required by national, state and local codes.
8. Bond the enclosure in accordance with your state and local codes. Where required, connect
a No. 8 AWG solid copper wire to the enclosure using Bonding Lug (Intermatic part number
156T11047A). Connect the bonding wire to an approved earth ground.
9. Identify and install all wires necessary to complete the installation. Allow a length of
approximately 18” of each wire at the metal enclosure for required connections of junctions.
10. Connect wiring for circuits as required. Refer to the diagrams in this section for wiring
suggestions for specific equipment combinations. All splices and wire nut connections
should be in the metal enclosure, not in the PPC-CON enclosure.
11. Check and tighten all connections and circuits.
12. Apply power.
THE METAL ENCLOSURE MUST BE CLOSED AND SECURED WITH A LOCK OR TY-WRAP.
Select Breaker to match wire size
and load requirement. Observe
maximum control circuit capacity.
1-pole
Breakers
15 A. Max.
NEUTRAL BUS
1-pole Breaker
120 VAC
1-Speed
Pump
# 1 Button
Make sure that voltage selector switch is in 120V
position before applying power to Terminals 1 & 2
12345
Divider provided
120V
240V
HOT
NEUTRAL
RECEIVER
POWER
SUPPLY
1234567 89
# 1 Button
must be installed
for Heater circuit.
NOTE:
Low Voltage
120 VAC
Blower
# 2 Button
The combined load on Terminals 6 & 7
must NOT exceed 15 amps Resistive.
RELAY 1
RELAY 2
VALVES
WHITE
BLK
BLK/WHT
BLK/WHT
120 VAC Actuator Power
Actuator model PPC-ACTC must be installed in a
separate enclosure, either an existing Intermatic
timeclock or PPC-80CP. Or PPC-ACTE may be used
which includes its own enclosure. Refer to
Actuator installation instructions for additional
wiring instructions.
NOTE:
120 VAC
Actuator Control
# 4 Button
NOTE:
Refer to Heater manufacturer’s
installation instructions for
Heater installation and setup
120 VAC
Booster
Pump
# 3 Button
HEATER
# 5 Button
NOTE:
Wires must exit
through separate
opening from line
voltage wires. Use
shutter bushing
provided.
Heater Enable Circuit
(24 VAC Typical) MUST
connect to Terminals 8 & 9
on PPC-CON and to
Fireman’s Switch on the
Heater
Make sure that voltage selector switch is in 120V
position before applying power to Terminals 1 & 2
12345
NOTE:
Low Voltage
Divider provided
must be installed
for Heater circuit.
NEUTRAL BUS
1-pole Breaker
120 VAC
1-Speed
Pump
# 1 Button
120V
240V
HOT
NEUTRAL
RECEIVER
POWER
SUPPLY
123456789
# 1 Button
120 VAC
Lights
# 2 Button
The combined load on Terminals 6 & 7
must NOT exceed 15 amps Resistive.
RELAY 1
RELAY 2
VALVES
WHITE
BLK
BLK/WHT
BLK/WHT
120 VAC Actuator Power
Actuator model PPC-ACTC must be installed in a
separate enclosure, either an existing Intermatic
timeclock or PPC-80CP. Or PPC-ACTE may be used
which includes its own enclosure. Refer to
Actuator installation instructions for additional
wiring instructions.
NOTE:
120 VAC
Actuator Control
# 4 Button
NOTE:
Refer to Heater manufacturer’s
installation instructions for
Heater installation and setup
120 VAC
Blower
# 3 Button
HEATER
# 5 Button
NOTE:
Wires must exit
through separate
opening from line
voltage wires. Use
shutter bushing
provided.
Heater Enable Circuit
(24 VAC Typical) MUST
connect to Terminals 8 & 9
on PPC-CON and to
Fireman’s Switch on the
Heater
Select Breaker to match wire size
and load requirement. Observe
maximum control circuit capacity.
Make sure that voltage selector switch is in 240V
position before applying power to Terminals 1 & 2
NEUTRAL BUS
2- pole
Breakers
240 VAC
1-Speed
Pump
# 1 Button
NOTE:
The combined load on Terminals 6 & 7
must NOT exceed 15 amps Resistive.
240 VAC
Actuator Control
# 4 Button
BLK
RELAY 1
RELAY 2
VALVES
240 VAC Actuator Power
RED
Actuator model PPC-ACTC must be installed in a
separate enclosure, either an existing Intermatic
timeclock or PPC-80CP. Or PPC-ACTE may be used
which includes its own enclosure. Refer to
Actuator installation instructions for additional
wiring instructions.
2- pole
Breaker
BLK/WHT
BLK/WHT
RECEIVER
POWER
SUPPLY
120V
240V
123456789
L1
L2
240 VAC
Blower
# 2 Button
240 VAC
Booster
# 3 Button
NOTE:
Refer to Heater manufacturer’s
installation instructions for
Heater installation and setup
12345
NOTE:
Low Voltage
Divider provided
must be installed
for Heater circuit.
NOTE:
Wires must exit
through separate
opening from line
voltage wires. Use
shutter bushing
provided.
Heater Enable Circuit
(24 VAC Typical) MUST
connect to Terminals 8 & 9
on PPC-CON and to
Fireman’s Switch on the
Heater
Select Breaker to match wire size
and load requirement. Observe
maximum control circuit capacity.
NEUTRAL BUS
2- pole
Breakers
2- pole
Breaker
Three: PPC-CON Receiving Device Installation 25
Make sure that voltage selector switch is in 240V
position before applying power to Terminals 1 & 2
RECEIVER
POWER
SUPPLY
120V
240V
123456789
12345
240 VAC
1-Speed
Pump
# 1 Button
NOTE:
The combined load on Terminals 6 & 7
must NOT exceed 15 amps Resistive.
240 VAC
Actuator Control
# 4 Button
BLK
RELAY 1
RELAY 2
VALVES
240 VAC Actuator Power
RED
Actuator model PPC-ACTC must be installed in a
separate enclosure, either an existing Intermatic
timeclock or PPC-80CP. Or PPC-ACTE may be used
which includes its own enclosure. Refer to
Actuator installation instructions for additional
wiring instructions.
L1
L2
240 VAC
Blower
# 3 Button
BLK/WHT
BLK/WHT
NOTE:
Refer to Heater manufacturer’s
installation instructions for
Heater installation and setup
120VAC
Lights
# 2 Button
NOTE:
Low Voltage
Divider provided
must be installed
for Heater circuit.
NOTE:
Wires must exit
through separate
opening from line
voltage wires. Use
shutter bushing
provided.
Heater Enable Circuit
(24 VAC Typical) MUST
connect to Terminals 8 & 9
on PPC-CON and to
Fireman’s Switch on the
Heater