Balboa Circuit Boards: Things to Know About Your Spa Circuit Boards

What to do when the Balboa circuit boards break down? Are you aware of your spa circuit board? Circuit boards are one of the most commonly replaced spa components. 

What Is a Circuit Board and What it does?

The control pack is the principal component of your spa. The circuit board is one of the essential parts of the control pack that ensures your spa’s proper function.  

Your spa’s circuit board is a printed circuit board (PCB) that you find in many electronic devices. The spa circuit board is designed to perform a specific set of tasks under comparatively extreme conditions. You can say the circuit board acts as your spa’s central nervous system. It controls all of its vital activities and automatic functions through electromagnetic relays. The circuit board control functions, like water-flow, high-limit sensors, operation of temperature, filtration, water temperature, spa lights, and jets and blowers.

 

When to Replace Spa’s Circuit Board?

Over time your circuit board wears out due to overheating and may fail. Being a spa’s the circuit board is exposed to all kinds of harsh conditions. So a circuit board’s life expectancy is usually between nine to ten years. If you take proper care and attention, then the circuit board could last as long as twenty years. You may need to replace the circuit board at least a few times over many years of ownership.

How to Replace Spa’s Circuit Board?

In the present day, most spas on the market today are manufactured using Balboa Water Group components. Here, the Balboa circuit boards are given as an example to help you know how to make the replacement. 

Here are the two most effective methods for getting the right circuit board for your Balboa spa. 

 

Method 1: Check the Serial Number:

The most accurate method for identifying and replacing your circuit board is the serial number. It contains your board’s product number. The product serial number is a series of several numbers (preceded by ‘SN’ or ‘S/N’) found on the rectangular white sticker on the front or back of your printed circuit board. The first five to seven numbers of your spa’s circuit board serial number represent the product number. Beneath the serial number, you find the model of the board. 

Method 2: Consider the Chip Number:

On a small white sticker on your board, you can find the chip number! You can also find the chip number written in black marker on the back of the circuit board. The chip number enables you to identify your circuit board using the handy chipset cross reference provided by the Balboa Water Group. It gives you the ability to track down your board’s part number and match it to the chipset.

To determine if the Balboa circuit boards need replacement or which circuit board is right for you, call us at 1-800-759-8990. With us, get the detailed instruction on changing the circuit Board of your Balboa spa. If you want to make the purchase, then browse through this link: https://www.cedartubsdirect.com/balboa-ciruit-boards-c-115_116.html

Top Hot Tub Accessories to Make the Most of Your Spa Experience

Your hot tub is the best place where you can relax, relish health-associated advantages such as improved quality of sleep, and spend quality time with your family & friends. Soaking in a hot tub is delightful but you can enhance your experience & create your very own haven with some of these below mentioned hot tub accessories.

Cover Lifters: Hot tub covers are bulky and can get damaged if they left to sit on the ground every time you make use of your hot tub. Cover lifters takes off these worries letting hot tub owners to remove & replace their covers pretty easily, and keep covers off the ground. Though it might be enticing to pick a basic cover lifter, keep in mind that you will use this accessory every time you use your outdoor hot tub. A durable, well-built cover lifter designed explicitly for your spa is a safe bet.

Steps: Hot tubs stand 3 feet tall or higher, which might cause an issue for people who’ve limited mobility. This is where hot tub steps can make getting into & exiting your spa easier. Steps made of quality materials are water-resistant, slip-resistant, and build to endure exposure to the elements over the years. Today you can find a wide range of steps, including those that complement your spa cabinet.

Handrails: Handrails can help those who’ve difficulty in getting into & out of a hot tub, including kids. The handrail base plate slips beneath the spa cabinet for firmness, and the rail swings for ever easier spa entry & exit.

Pillows: Specially made spa pillows affix to headrests in your hot tub’s shell to comfily support your head & neck. Waterproof & ideally sized, a spa pillow will surely add to your hot tub enjoyment.

Outdoor Lighting: While most spas have their own lighting systems, you might want to light your hot tub with additional exterior lighting. Check out Sarburst 28 LED Spa Hot Tub Light from Cedar Tubs Direct to illuminate your spa in an entertaining way.

Make your Hot Tubbing experience even more enjoyable with high quality hot tub accessories from Cedar Tubs Direct. We have a wide range of accessories to suit a variety of needs. We believe that every aspect of your spa experience should be sculpted to perfection. That’s why we put the same care into designing our accessories as we do our hot tubs.

5 Different Balboa Hot Tub Heaters for Ultimate Hot Tub Experience

Are you looking to buy a Balboa hot tub heater? Here are a few types you should consider for ultimate hot tub experience:

1. Balboa PN 55629 Replacement Titanium Heater Element

This Balboa hot tub heater comes with PN 55629 heater tube assembly. This is generally used in Balboa’s EL series of spa packs. This unit is available with sensors. The titanium heater element is capable of producing 5.5 kW at 240 V and 1.375 kW at 120V. 

Upon buying this kit, you will be provided with 2” slip tail pieces, gaskets and split ring nuts. However, this titanium heating element is ideal for high chlorine levels or salt water pool or spas.

2. Balboa Temperature Sensor with 12 Inch Cable PN 30344

 This hot tub heater features with PN 30344 that comprises of the standard thermostat temperature sensor. It’s used in the M7 series spa packs like VS, GS, EL, and GL series. If these sensors don’t match so that an SN error message appears, one of the sensors or both needs to be replaced to recreate a matched pair.

3. Balboa 5.5 KW Heater Tube Assembly Sensors PN 58083

The most common heater tube assembly used in the Balboa VS, EL, and BP series of spa packs is the PN 58083. This unit is available with sensors. The heating element in this hot tub heater produces 5.5kW at 240V and 1.375kW at 120V.

 You will be supplied with 2” slip tail pieces, gaskets and split ring nuts. The spa heating kit comes with one year warranty. The 58083 Balboa spa heater assembly is an ideal replacement for all 5.5Kw EL, VS, and BP series spa packs.

4. Balboa PN 58118 Replacement Heater Assembly with Sensors 3KW 240V

Balboa’s international (50Hz) M7 spa packs (GS and GL series) use the most common hot tub heater assembly i.e. PN 58104. It can be an ideal replacement for North American spa packs – VS and EL series. The heater tube is made from stainless steel and is provided with 2” slip tail pieces, gaskets, and split ring nuts. This replacement heater assembly is available with one year warranty and provided with free lifetime technical support on this product.

5. Balboa 5.5KW Heater Tube with Titanium Heater Element PN 55624

PN 55624 is the most reliable heater tube assembly for Balboa spa packs. The external heater tube is made from stainless steel and is of 2” diameter and 15” length. The titanium heater element is able to produce 5.5 kW at 240 V and 1.375 kW at 120V.

This heating element is specifically engineered for high chlorine levels or salt water pool or spas. When you purchase this product, you will be provided with free lifetime technical support.

Bottom Line –

When it comes to buying a Balboa hot tub heater, you should look no further than Northern Lights Cedar Tubs Direct. We specialize in providing Balboa hot tub heating packages best suiting personal preferences and requirements. For more information about our products, feel free to contact us as soon as possible at 1-800-759-8990.

5 Best Hot Tub Accessories for Ultimate Hot Tub Experience

Do you just love your hot tub? Your hot tub water is properly balanced and warm; but you find something missing. However, you need hot tub accessories for your ultimate hot tub experience.

Soaking in a hot tub feels amazing; but with good quality hot tub accessories, it can be a paradise. Whether you want to create a peaceful spa retreat, family bonding or good ambience for your get together, your hot tub will make you most out of your overall experience.

If you seek for functionality and convenience, taking a hot tub session will give you ultimate relaxation and peace of mind you and your guests want. Here are some of the best accessories you prefer buying for your hot tub:

1. Hot Tub Cover

A hot tub is a big investment in your home. Therefore, you need to protect your hot tub from the external elements. This is where a hot tub cover comes in handy. It helps in providing lower operational costs by ensuring additional insulation.

When you use a hot tub cover, it’ll keep the heat absorbed inside your hot tub and won’t allow the heat to escape. This means, the system won’t need to work hard to regulate temperature. Generally, hot tub covers are perfectly designed to fit your hot tub, keeping it energy efficient and cleaner water for much longer.

2. Spa Steps

Of course, you need a way to get in and out of the spa. Spa steps are the important accessories worth buying for your hot tub. You can create some under step storage and add a couple of connected planters.

3. Spa Rail

A spa rail is a right companion to spa steps and slides under the spa. It gives a safe hand hold to climb in and out of the space. When you come out of the spa, you can’t stand up suddenly and can feel dizzy. It’s easy to slip and fall when coming out of a hot tub because of the slippery wet surfaces.

4. Spa Pillow

You will feel relaxed and reinvigorated in your hot tub with a spa pillow. You will enjoy resting your head on the side of your spa; which seems hard on your neck; won’t feel relaxing.

5. Towel Warmer

A towel warmer is a must-have item in the list of hot tub accessories. You will wrap yourself in a warm and comfy towel on a chilly night. You will feel like a towel warmer is a basic requirement you will need during your session.

Final Consideration –

No whatever accessories you want for your spa experience, you should look no further than Northern Lights Cedar Tubs Direct. We have a wide selection of accessories to choose from. You’ll find everything you need to transform your backyard into a relaxing retreat to chill out and entertain.

All of our accessories can help you improve overall safety and functionality of your backyard while improving how much you enjoy soaking in the water. For more information, feel free to reach out to our team as soon as possible at 1-800-759-8990.

5 Common Symptoms of Spa Pump Failure

Do you use spa pumps often? If yes, you can use a quality spa pump in an average of five to ten years. If you’ve used your spa pumps more than five years and started showing problems or major breakdowns, it’s better to consider spa pump replacement rather than troubleshooting different components.

Understanding a Spa Pump

Generally, a spa pump is an important piece of equipment for a spa or hot tub. It draws water into the filtration system where its momentum pushes water through the filter, heater and spa jets prior to water going back to the spa.

A spa pump comprises of two main components like a motor and wet end. Generally, the motor powers up the impeller which is present inside the wet end. The impeller starts propelling the water through a discharge port on the pump present on the side or center part of the house.

This spa pump is available in one or two speeds and has horsepower that ranges from 1/8 HP for spas that only require water circulation to 5 HP for spas with a large number jets. There are different pumps available to fit any size or setup of any spa.

5 Common Symptoms of Spa Pump Failure

There are so many reasons behind the failure of spa pumps and some of the best symptoms are discussed below:

1. Leakage

If the frames are loose, they may cause water to escape and propel through the pump. It’s suggested to check the frames and o-rings to make sure that they are fully secure and tight. Leakage causes when there’s a faulty pump seal. You should change the pump seal to make sure that your pump gets a tight and leak-free fit.

2. Low Water Pressure

If the water pressure is low, it may be due to some sorts of obstructions. They may prevent the impeller from turning on. Check the impeller and remove any debris if present to prevent blocking further.

3. Unnecessary Noise

If the bearings are worn, they can produce humming sound and prevent the motor from functioning properly. You need to check the bearings for dirt or corrosion and replace them if you find them worn. Don’t forget to check the motor coupling, brackets and other connected parts. Make sure that all the screws, nuts and bolts are perfectly connected and fully secure.

4. Overheating

However, you can keep your hand on a spa pump safely under regular conditions. When it produces more heat with the increase in temperature, it releases unnecessary energy. Therefore, overheating can occur, especially when there’s not sufficient clean air flowing through the motor. If it’s the case, it can be due to the motor. Therefore, you should place your spa pump in an area without any dirt and leaves.

5. Defective Motor

If your motor is not functioning properly, you should check whether the power switch is one. If it is and still not working, check whether there are any failed relays, burned out wires or a blown fuse. Inspect all connections like copper bonding wire and pump power cable and identify any possible signs of damage.

Bottom Line –

When you find any above-discussed signs of spa pump failure, you should consider buying spa replacement pumps from Cedar Tubs Direct. For more information, feel free to give us a call now at 1-800-759-8990.

Buying Balboa VS520 Hot Tub Heater and Spa Pack

Do you have a costly spa or hot tub heater that requires the spa pack upgraded or replaced? This is where the Balboa VS520 – premium hot tub system comes in. It’s the unit that can handle nearly every combination of electrical requirements. This hot tub heater and spa pack uses the latest M7 technology, the best spa technology available on the market. It has completely digital circuitry which means less failure, more accurate heating and simple to use.

The Balboa VS520 hot tub heater is a premium hot tub heating kit perfectly designed to retrofit even the most existing spas. It features with a plastic exterior in order to protect against water entrance and corrosion. Its 5.5w heating unit can be installed into the existing PVC plumbing and can be wired for 60Hz and 240VAC convertible power.

The use of integrated connectors in the circuit board makes the installation process easy and its effortless design eliminates the unnecessary energy costs. This spa heating pack comes with a heater unit, the circuit board and sensors.

In addition to, the Balboa VS520 has some of the built-in programmable features like cycle programming, freeze protection, economy mode, sleep mode and self diagnosis. Also the Balboa spa heater has the ability to choose how much current will be drawn by choosing the number pumps to run. It has receptacles for two 2-speed pumps, one speed pump or blower, one circulation pump, one ozonator, one constant-on for audio or visual devices and one 12 volt light. Except light, all the receptacles can be switched to supply 230 volts or 120 volts.

Upon buying a Balboa VS520 spa heater, you will get VS520SZ pack with 2” heater tail pieces, plasticized control instruction sheet and complete instruction manual for retrofit situations. However, the VS520 spa heater belongs to the Value Series (VS) family of hot tub control systems. As discussed above, this system is designed using Balboa’s patented M7 temperature and water flow sensor technology as well as completely new universal control platform.

Here are a few best reasons why buying a Balboa VS series spa heater makes perfect sense:

Perfectly designed for ease of installation and service –

The Balboa VS520 is based on the common universal platform that enhances feature flexibility while minimizing installation and configuration related issues. The VS family spa heater comes with unique, good feature flexibilities whereas its performance is competitive with much high-end products.

The M7 technology helps the system in eliminating more failure prone pressure switches and simplifies the installation without drilling additional holes inside the spa.

Ultimate flexibility and feature-rich

The Balboa VS520 hot tub heater has a plastic enclosure to get rid of water intrusion smoothly. The connectors present on the circuit board minimize wires and simplify the service.  The system has a single two speed pump, or an additional pump or a blower. The hot tub heaters feature a convertible power supply that can be wired for 120 or 240 volts, a 5.5 KW heater and support VL panels.

Improved reliability

Currently, most people have been using the M7 technology. The VS series of spa control systems are built using M7 technology that will deliver optimal performance and satisfaction. This universal control platform increases flexibility and reduces configuration related hassles.

Final Consideration –

When it comes to installing a Balboa VS520 hot tub and spa system, it’s wise to look no further than Cedar Tubs Direct. Please check out our available Balboa VS520, please visit our website at https://www.cedartubsdirect.com.

Understanding the Basic Details of Hot Tub Plumbing System

More often, sauna bathers never give a second thought to hot tub plumbing in Canada. When it comes to enjoying hot tub sessions, all you want is to focus on relaxation and enjoyment. You won’t need to figure out how water gets pushed through the jets. 

At least once in a while, you should find yourself wondering how your hot tub creates soothing and tranquil ambiance. Take a look at this post and understand better about hot tub plumbing systems in Canada:

Understanding the Basic Details of Hot Tub Plumbing Kits 

Now it’s time to get started with an empty hot tub. First of all, you should know what will happen when you fill it with water.

Skimmer and Suction Line –

Suction line will start sucking in water whereas the skimmer will remove debris like leaves, insects, etc. Both the skimmer and suction line are responsible for sending water to the pump.

Filter and Pump –

After that, the suction line collects the water and the skimmer takes it to the pump. The pump pushes the water towards the filter. When the water passes through the filter, it will remove any small contaminants like dust and dirt particles. 

Manifolds and Heater –

The filtered water goes to the heater. The heater uses its heating element to make the water toasty and nice. As soon as water gets heated, the water starts flowing through the hot return line and goes to the manifold. 

Generally, manifolds are water diverters and absorb water from a single source. After that, manifolds divert it to different places. 

Water Jets –

When the water gets hot and clean, it will flow from the manifolds to the jets in a hot tub through a number of flexible PVC pipes. At the end, jets push out the water to reach you. 

Different Elements of Hot Tub Plumbing System 

Apart from the above discussed elements, there are other elements of hot tub plumbing systems that you need to know:

Air Control 

Hot tubs are able to draw in air and expel them through the jets while offering a pleasantly bubbly effect. The availability of simple to use air control valves makes it possible. 

Sanitation –

All you need to have is an effective sanitization to ensure optimal safety and sanitization while enjoying hot tub sessions. Traditionally, either chlorine or bromine is used for sanitization purposes. You will have to sanitize your water by adding those chemicals in liquid, tablet or powder form. 

Apart from sanitizers, you can add a few things to your hot tub plumbing in Canada. For instance, you can buy an ozonator. The ozonator receives water once it’s heated and filtered. Bacterial busting ozone molecules are present in the ozonator to add to the water. 

Typically, this is true for salt water sanitation systems. Once the water gets hot and clean, it should be better sanitized prior to being pushed into the hot tub. 

Maintain your hot tub plumbing system –

A plumbing system is paramount for your hot tub plumbing kit. Your hot tub would be nothing more than a bucket of water. Therefore, you should take care of your plumbing system. This way, you’ll make sure that you provide enormous fun and relaxation to you and your near and dear ones. 

Bottom Line –

So, what are you thinking about hot tub plumbing in Canada? Feel free to reach out to Northern Lights Cedar Tubs Direct team as soon as possible. Contact us today and we’ll get back to you right away.