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RIVERBATH
117198-5-BD
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IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
READ AND FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
INSTRUCTIONS PERTAINING TO A RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC
SHOCK, OR INJURY TO PERSONS
WARNING: When using this unit, always
follow basic precautions, including the
following:
DANGER: Risk of personal injury. To reduce
the risk of injury, do not permit children to use
this unit unless they are closely supervised at all
times.
DANGER: Risk of personal injury. Hot
whirlpool baths can put certain stresses on the
body, as does any hot bath, shower, sauna, or
steam bath. Prolonged immersions in hot
water may induce hyperthermia. Symptoms
of hyperthermia include an increase in the
internal body temperature, dizziness, lethargy,
drowsiness, and fainting. The effects of
hyperthermia include (1) failure to perceive
heat, (2) failure to recognize the need to exit the
bath, (3) unawareness of impending hazard, (4)
fetal damage in pregnant women, (5) physical
inability to exit the bath, and (6)
unconsciousness resulting in the danger of
drowning. Warning – The use of alcohol,
drugs, or other medication can greatly
increase the risk of fatal hyperthermia.
Use this unit only for its intended use as described
in this manual. Do not use attachments not
recommended by Kohler Co.
Do not operate this unit without the guards (covers)
on the suction fittings.
Never drop or insert any object into any opening.
IMPORTANT! Flush your whirlpool system twice a
month or more depending upon usage, as
described on Page 7.
Keep small objects such as bath toys and bathing
accessories out of the whirlpool while the whirlpool
is running.
Repeated use of personal care products containing
oils can damage plastic whirlpool components. Do
not use heavy, vegetable-based shampoos or bath
oils.
The unit must be connected only to supply circuits
that are protected by Ground-Fault
Circuit-Interrupters (GFCI’s). Such GFCI’s should be
provided by the installer and should be tested on a
routine basis.
To test the GFCI’s, push the test buttons. The
GFCI’s should interrupt power. Push the reset
buttons. Power should be restored.
If the GFCI fails to operate in this manner, the GFCI
is defective. If the GFCI interrupts power to the bath
without the test button being pushed, a ground
current is flowing, indicating the possibility of an
electric shock. DO NOT use this hydro-massage
bath. Disconnect the hydro-massage bath and have
the problem corrected by a qualified service
representative before using.
To reduce the risk of electric shock, connect only to
properly grounded, grounding type receptacles,
protected by Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupters
(GFCI’s). Do not remove the plugs’ ground pins. Do
not use grounding adapters.
A pressure wire connector is provided on the exterior
of the pumps or controls within this unit to permit
connection of bonding conductors between this unit
and all other exposed metal in the vicinity, as needed
to comply with local requirements.
Whirlpool hydro-massage action can cause even a
small amount of bubble bath, bath soap, shampoo,
or bath oil to foam excessively. Refrain from using
these products during whirlpool operation.
Exercise extreme caution if you walk or move around
in the whirlpool, particularly if the whirlpool is
running. Acrylic surfaces are inherently slippery
when wet.
Do not allow the water temperature in the whirlpool
to exceed 104 F (40 C).
Your new whirlpool has been listed by Underwriter’s
Laboratories, thus ensuring safety for you and your
family. Your new whirlpool also conforms to rigid
ANSI and IAPMO standards set within the plumbing
industry.
Identify and record the model and serial numbers below (found near the whirlpool pumps):
Model No. Serial No.
117198-5-BD
2
Kohler Co., Kohler WI U.S.A.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 2. . . . . . . .
INTRODUCTION 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SERVICE AND WARRANTY INFORMATION 3. . . .
Call Us For Help 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Limited One-Year Warranty 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
LOOK AT THESE FEATURES 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
LET’S GET STARTED 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CARE AND CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS 7. . . . . . .
Cleaning Your Acrylic Whirlpool 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning Your Removable Pillows 7. . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning Your Faucet, Drain, and Trim 7. . . . . . . .
Flushing Your Whirlpool System 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TROUBLESHOOT THE WHIRLPOOL SYSTEM 8.
1. INTRODUCTION
Thank you for choosing The Bold Look of Kohler with your RiverBath whirlpool system. Kohler craftsmanship offers
you a rare combination of proven performance and graceful sophistication with the RiverBath. The dependability and
beauty of your new whirlpool will surpass your highest expectations. We’re very proud of the RiverBath here at Kohler
Co., and we know you will be too.
Please take a few minutes to study this operating and maintenance guide before you use your whirlpool for the first
time. Pay special attention to the care and cleaning instructions on Page 7.
All information in this manual is based upon the latest product information available at the time of publication. At Kohler,
we constantly strive to improve the quality of our products; we therefore reserve the right to make changes in product
characteristics, packaging, or availability at any time without notice.
2. SERVICE AND WARRANTY INFORMATION
A. CALL US FOR HELP – 1-800-4-KOHLER
Contact your dealer or plumbing contractor if you
encounter problems with your Kohler whirlpool. Ask
them to review the Installation Guide to be sure all the
installation steps have been followed exactly. If the
whirlpool still fails to operate correctly, contact Kohler
Co. either through your dealer or plumbing contractor, or
by writing: Kohler Co., Attn: Customer Service
Department, 444 Highland Drive, Kohler, WI 53044, or
by calling 1-800-4-KOHLER. Please be sure to provide
all pertinent information regarding your claim, including
a complete description of the problem, the product,
model number, color, finish, and the date the product
was purchased. Also include the name of your
contractor or distributor and your original invoice.
B. LIMITED ONE-YEAR W ARRANTY
Kohler plumbing fixtures and fittings are warranted free
of manufacturing defects.
Kohler Co. will, at its election, repair, replace, or make
appropriate adjustment where Kohler Co. inspection
discloses any such defects occurring in normal usage
within one year after installation. Kohler Co. is not
responsible for installation or removal costs.
To obtain warranty service, contact Kohler Co. either
through your Dealer or Plumbing Contractor, or by
writing Kohler Co., Attn: Customer Service Department,
444 Highland Drive, Kohler, WI 53044 USA, or by calling
1-800-4-KOHLER from within the USA.
Implied warranties, including that of merchantabil-
ity or fitness for a particular purpose, are expressly
limited in duration to the duration of this warranty.
Kohler Co. disclaims any liability for special,
incidental, or consequential damages.
Kohler Co., Kohler WI U.S.A.
Some states do not allow limitations on how long an
implied warranty lasts or the exclusion or limitation of
special, incidental, or consequential damages, so these
limitations and exclusions may not apply to you. This
warranty gives you specific legal rights. You may also
have other rights which vary from state to state.
This limited warranty provides specific legal rights as
they apply within the USA, and other rights may be
available, but may vary from country to country.
This is our exclusive written warranty.
KOHLER CO., KOHLER, WISCONSIN 53044
3
117198-5-BD
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3. LOOK AT THESE FEATURES
Your Kohler RiverBath is designed to stimulate,
invigorate, and energize your body for total
hydro-massage relaxation.
Select from the Waterfall function or three distinct
whirlpool experiences: Whirlpool, Rapids, or
Whitewater. You can operate the Waterfall alone,
or pair it with one of the other three functions to
customize each RiverBath adventure.
The extra-large basin area provides enough room
for up to four bathers.
RiverBath uses two quiet but powerful
2-horsepower pumps and motors so you can use
the Waterfall and any of the jet functions at the
same time to maximize your whirlpool experience.
Waterfall Whirlpool
RiverBath includes a contoured Waterfall pillow to
act as a comforting headrest. You can remove this
pillow for occasional care and cleaning. In addition
to the Waterfall pillow, RiverBath includes three
small, removable pillows you can position as you
please for maximum comfort.
The K-1397 RiverBath features an integral fill
system using dual fill ports at both sides of the
Waterfall, and pre-installed valving. The K-1399
model allows you to use the fill valving of your
choice – you can use the pre-installed dual fill ports
or a separate fill spout if you desire.
RiverBath features three easy-to-read electronic
controls. Use these controls to individualize your
hydro-massage experience by selecting Waterfall,
Whirlpool, Rapids, or Whitewater functions. You
can vary the intensity of your hydro-massage from
gentle to vigorous with the touch of a finger.
The integral heater built right into each pump
housing helps maintain the temperature of the
water while your RiverBath is running.
Rapids Whitewater
Pillow
Dual Fill
Ports
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Kohler Co., Kohler WI U.S.A.
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4. LET’S GET STARTED
If you’re like most people who install a Kohler
Whirlpool, you can’t wait to get in and try it out. You’ll
soon find that the whirlpool features and controls are
very easy to use, and offer you a safe and exciting
personal care adventure. There are a few things you
should know before you start using your new
whirlpool. Please spend a few minutes with these
simple rules, and then you’ll be ready to go.
Remove all loose bathing items, such as soap
bars, shampoo bottles, and washcloths from inside
the whirlpool basin.
Don’t use shampoo, soap, or bubble bath while you
are using the whirlpool. Of course, you can freely
use shampoo and soap for showering before you
fill the whirlpool.
NOTE: The water temperature in the whirlpool should
not exceed 104 F (40 C).
Close the drain.
For K-1397 Model Only:
With your handshower installed and connected to
the transfer valve, open the hot and cold water
valves. Make sure the transfer valve handle is
rotated fully clockwise so water enters the bath
from the fill ports under the large pillow.
You can choose to divert the water from the fill
ports to the handshower by simply rotating the
transfer valve handle position.
For All Models:
If you only plan to use the Waterfall (no Whirlpool
or River Jets), fill the whirlpool basin to a level
about 2” (5.1cm) over the top of the suction cover.
To use the Waterfall and Whirlpool (no River Jets),
fill the whirlpool basin to a level about 2” (5.1cm)
over the top of the highest Whirlpool Flexjet.
If you plan to use all the RiverBath functions
(Waterfall, Whirlpool, Rapids, and Whitewater), fill
the basin to a level above the River Jet water-level
sensors located on either side of the River Jets.
Transfer
V alve
River Jet
Water-Level
Sensor
River
Jet
2” (5.1cm)
Flexjet
Handshower
Flexjet
Trim Ring
2” (5.1cm)
Water
V alves
Suction Cover
Kohler Co., Kohler WI U.S.A.
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117198-5-BD
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5. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
NOTE: Exercise caution if you walk or move around in
the whirlpool, particularly if the unit is running. Acrylic
surfaces are inherently slippery when wet.
NOTE: The River Jets will only operate if both
water-level sensors are completely covered with
water. If the water level drops below the sensors while
the River Jets are running, they will automatically turn
off, and the eight Whirlpool Flexjets will start to run.
NOTE: The River Jets and Whirlpool Flexjets will not
operate at the same time. The Waterfall, however, will
run in conjunction with either the River Jets or the
Whirlpool Flexjets.
To use the Waterfall: press the “Waterfall” control
button once. The Waterfall will start to flow at
maximum volume within several seconds.
Adjust the water flow volume by pressing and holding
down the volume control arrows () in the direction
desired.
Press the “Waterfall” control button a second time to
turn off the Waterfall.
“Waterfall”
Control
Button
Volume
Control
Arrows
To use the jets: press the “River” control button once
to start the jet functions. The eight Whirlpool Flexjets
will start to immediately flow at maximum volume
(Whirlpool mode). Adjust the water flow volume by
pressing and holding down the volume control arrows
() in the direction desired.
Your Whirlpool Flexjet system adds air to the water
stream to increase the force of the water flow.
Decrease the force of the water flow by turning the
Whirlpool Flexjet trim rings clockwise until you obtain
the desired water force. Turn the trim rings
counterclockwise to increase the water flow force.
Press the “Whitewater – Rapids – Whirlpool” control
button once to turn off the Whirlpool Flexjets and turn
on all four River Jets (Whitewater mode). Water will
start to flow from the River Jets within several
seconds.
Press the “Whitewater – Rapids – Whirlpool” control
button a second time to turn off the two center River
Jets. The two outermost River Jets will continue to run
(Rapids mode).
Press the control button a third time to turn off all the
River Jets and restart the Whirlpool Flexjets in the
Whirlpool mode.
Press the “River” control button a second time to turn
off all the jet functions.
“River”
Control
Button
Decrease the
Water Force
Volume
Control
Arrows
“Whitewater
Rapids
Whirlpool”
Control
Button
Increase the
Water Force
NOTE: A built-in timer automatically stops the pumps
and motors after approximately 20 minutes of
operation.
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Kohler Co., Kohler WI U.S.A.
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6. CARE AND CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS
A. CLEANING YOUR ACRYLIC WHIRLPOOL
Do not use abrasive cleansers or solvents on acrylic
surfaces.
Wipe out your acrylic whirlpool with a soft cloth after
each use to prevent a build-up of soap and scum. If the
surface gets excessively dirty you can use a general
purpose cleaner such as: Cinch , Glass Plus , 409 All
Purpose, Dow Soap Scum and Mildew Remover , Scrub
Free Mildew Remover, Mr Clean Lemon Fresh, or
Fantastik. You can also use an automotive-type
polishing compound, followed by an application of
good-quality paste wax.
Avoid cleaning products that contain the following
chemicals, as they will damage the finish of your acrylic
whirlpool: acetone, ethyl alcohol, amyl or ethyl acetate,
sodium hypochlorite, toluene, or phenol.
Extreme heat such as that generated by cigarettes or
portable heaters can damage acrylic surfaces; do not
use such items near your whirlpool.
C. CLEANING YOUR F AUCET , DRAIN, & TRIM
If available, follow the care and cleaning instructions
packed with your faucet and drain trim.
Gold Finishes: The best way to clean these finishes
is to use warm water and dab dry with a cotton ball.
B. CLEANING YOUR REMOV ABLE PILLOWS
Clean your pillows twice a month or more, depending
upon usage.
Use mild soap and water on a clean, soft cloth for
routine cleaning. Remove more stubborn stains with a
high-quality cleaner recommended for vinyl. Remove
the pillows from the whirlpool before applying any
cleaners.
Periodically use a vinyl treatment product to
rejuvenate the appearance of your removable pillows.
Follow all cleaner manufacturer instructions.
D. FLUSHING YOUR WHIRLPOOL SYSTEM
Flush your whirlpool system twice a month or more,
depending upon usage, following the procedures
below .
Turn the Flexjet trim rings fully clockwise.
All Other Finishes: Clean these finishes with a mild
soap and warm water. Wipe the entire surface
completely dry with a clean, soft cloth. Many cleaners
contain chemicals, such as ammonia, which could
adversely affect the finish, and are not recommended.
Do not use abrasive cleansers or solvents on Kohler
faucets and fittings.
Fill the whirlpool with hot water to a level above the
River Jet water-level sensors.
Add 4 teaspoons of a low-foaming dishwasher
detergent, and 1 cup of household bleach to the water.
Run the whirlpool for 5 to 10 minutes in the Waterfall
and all Whirlpool modes. Then turn off the whirlpool,
and drain.
Fill the whirlpool with cold water to a level above the
River Jet water-level sensors, and run the whirlpool for
another 5 to 10 minutes in the Waterfall and all
Whirlpool modes. Turn off the whirlpool, and drain.
Wipe the surface dry with a clean, soft cloth.
Kohler Co., Kohler WI U.S.A.
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7. TROUBLESHOOT THE WHIRLPOOL SYSTEM
This troubleshooting guide is for general aid only. A Kohler Authorized Service Representative or a qualified
electrician should correct all electrical problems. For warranty service, contact your dealer or wholesale distributor.
SYMPTOMS PROBABLE CAUSES RECOMMENDED ACTION
1. Whirlpool does not
start/stop.
2. Motor starts, all jets
are not functioning.
A. No power to pump motor. A. Set/Reset GFCI breaker; check
wiring. If problem persists, refer to
installer/dealer.
B. Jets are blocked. B. Remove blockage. Refer to installer/
dealer.
C. Switch disconnected from motor. C. Reconnect switch to motor. Refer to
installer/dealer.
D. Control switch does not work. D. Replace switch. Refer to
installer/dealer.
E. Circuit board does not work. E. Replace circuit board. Refer to
installer/dealer.
F. Motor/pump assembly does not work. F. Replace motor and pump. Refer to
installer/dealer.
G. Auxiliary control does not work. G. Replace auxiliary control. Refer to
installer/dealer.
A. Whirlpool Flexjet is closed. A. Rotate Whirlpool Flexjet trim ring
counterclockwise to open.
B. Trim kit installed incorrectly. B. Re-install trim kit, checking for
damage to O-ring. Refer to
installer/dealer.
C. Butterfly valve does not work. C. Replace butterfly valve. Refer to
installer/dealer.
D. Auxiliary control does not work. D. Replace auxiliary control. Refer to
3. Whirlpool stops
automatically
before 18 minutes.
4. Whirlpool does not
automatically stop
after 22 minutes.
A. GFCI trips. A. Identify source of fault and correct. If
B. Suction blocked. B. Remove obstruction.
C. Jets are blocked. C. Remove blockage. Refer to
D. Motor overheated and protection
device activated.
E. Circuit board does not work. E. Replace circuit board. Refer to
A. Circuit board does not work. A. Replace circuit board. Refer to
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
installer/dealer.
problem persists, refer to
installer/dealer.
installer/dealer.
D. Check for blockage at motor vents.
Remove blockage and allow motor to
cool.
Check for suction blockage. Remove
blockage and allow motor to cool.
Check for jet blockage. Remove
blockage and allow motor to cool.
installer/dealer.
installer/dealer.
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Kohler Co., Kohler WI U.S.A.
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TROUBLESHOOTING CONTINUED
5. Pump does not
prime.
6. Noisy operation. A. Pump straps have not been cut. A. Cut straps with tin snips. Refer to
7. Little/poor flow from
dual fill ports
(K-1397 model).
8. Little/poor water
flow from Waterfall.
9. Flexjets run, but
River Jets do not
operate as
described.
A. Pump shimmed too high. A. Lower pump base to subfloor. Refer
to installer/dealer.
installer/dealer.
B. Flexjet squeals due to dislodged
Flexjet O-ring.
A. Water supply lines blocked. A. Remove blockage. Refer to
B. Transfer valve not fully open. B. Rotate transfer valve handle.
A. Suction or harness blocked. A. Remove blockage.
B. Variable flow valve does not work. B. Replace variable flow valve. Refer to
A. Insufficient water in whirlpool basin. A. Fill whirlpool so water covers water
B. Control switch does not work. B. Replace control switch. Refer to
C. Butterfly valve does not work. C. Replace butterfly valve. Refer to
D. Auxiliary control does not work. D. Replace auxiliary control. Refer to
B. Remove Flexjet, replace and lubricate
O-ring, and reinstall Flexjet. Refer to
installer/dealer.
installer/dealer.
installer/dealer.
level sensors.
installer/dealer.
installer/dealer.
installer/dealer.
10.Volume control
arrows do not
change water flow
as described.
A. Control switch does not work. A. Replace control switch. Refer to
installer/dealer.
B. Variable flow valve does not work. B. Replace variable flow valve. Refer to
installer/dealer.
C. Circuit board does not work. C. Replace circuit board. Refer to
installer/dealer.
Kohler Co., Kohler WI U.S.A.
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Kohler Co., Kohler WI U.S.A.
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Kohler Co., Kohler WI U.S.A.
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CALL US FOR HELP
Questions? Problems? For your convenience, this homeowners guide describes any applicable maintenance or
troubleshooting. For additional assistance, call our Customer Service Department for direct help. You may also
contact us at our web site listed below.
In the U.S.A., call 1-800-4-KOHLER
In Mexico, call 001-877-680-1310
In Canada, call 1-800-964-5590
117198-5-BD
1212
2002 Kohler Co.
Kohler Co., Kohler WI U.S.A.
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