Top Side Controls - The Problems and Things to Do

 

The topside control panel of the spa is used on hot tubs, portable spas, jetted tubs. Almost every spa uses a display panel to allow the users to control the functions of a typical spa easily that include pumps, heater, blower and lights.

And that is all the Balboa topside controls is a control panel that acts just like a remote control for your hot tub, wired into your spa controller, which is a brain of the spa system. The Balboa top side controls panel is a convenient way to turn things on and off and view equipment status lights and water temperature.

Balboa top side controls typically consist of a small LCD or LED screen, touch pad membranes and LED indicator lights that are topped with a pretty overlay. Balboa top side controls can either be digital, analog or a combination of both. These are made for air control systems as well as digital control systems for spas.

Top side controls work with a particular spa system control boards only. Top side controls work only with a particular make and model of the spa control for which they were designed. Talking more specifically, many top side controls work only with the circuit boards that possess a particular chip version that is printed on the spa control circuit board main chip label.

However, top side control panels aren't easy to test. The best way to check if a top side control is bad or not, is to plug in another one and see if it works or not. How to reduce the risk on the spa owner? Let's have a look:

Problem: There is no display on top side control panel

Things You Need to Do:

• Reset the spa controller, power down and restart
• Check if there is condensation under the display glass
• Verify if the cable is compressed or any other visible damage is there or not
• Clean both ends of the plug-in cable connections
• Verify the power at the transformer on control circuit board
• Check power at fuse on spa control circuit board
• Verify if the top side control number is working with the spa control chip version
• Examine the circuit board for any damage and rectify the power output
• Replace the Balboa top side controls
  

Problem: Incorrect Display on the Spa Control Panel

Things You Need to Do:

• The problem is indicated by error messages or error codes
• If there is flickering display it indicates low voltage from the transformer
• If partial display is the issue then there might be dirty contacts or moisture
• Lights flashing or blinking occurs when a system reset is required
• Make sure to check that the topside control number is working correctly with the spa control chip version
• Inspect the circuit board for any damage and appropriate power output
• If nothing works, replace the top side controls

Problem: The Spa side control panel buttons aren't working properly

Things You Need to Do:

• Take a look if there is moisture under glass or on contacts
• Verify if the cable is in good condition and free from rodent damage, crimps or melting
• Make sure to clean the plug-in cable connections at both ends
• Check the membrane or touch pad buttons are working properly or not
• Examine the circuit board for damage and appropriate power output
  
• Finally, if nothing works replace the top side controls

Conclusion:

Northern Lights Hot Tub Parts offers Balboa top side controls. To know more visit https://www.cedartubsdirect.com/balboa-top-side-controls-c-115_118.html

How Do You Replace Your Circuit Board Easily?

Most modern spas are equipped with circuit boards present inside the equipment area. They are commonly known as the spa packs. The spa pack works like the brain of your spa. If you are looking to replace the circuit board, you should ensure that you replace it with right one.

Many circuit boards look the same; but they may be different. Take a look at important tips that will make sure that your new circuit board will work perfectly with the existing system.

Note – Many circuit boards look alike; but may not work in your spa. Therefore, you shouldn’t order a replacement circuit board as per the appearance. To identify a circuit board, you should check the part number and the chip number.

Do you really want to replace your circuit board?

If you want to know whether you should replace your circuit board, it depends on what’s exactly wrong with your spa. Different possibilities may exist that causes malfunctioning of the system. Hence, you should identify the right problem so that you don’t need to waste money for parts replacement that doesn’t need to be replaced. If you want to get started, please remove the cover of the spa pack.

How do you troubleshoot your circuit board?

• Your circuit board may not work; if the important equipment like the pump, blower, heater, etc, doesn’t receive power.
• Check the voltage on the circuit board that will let you know the place where you lose power.
• Want to look at the board on your own? Please check for the melted components or burn marks, if there’s any.
• If you’re not sure about the issues with your circuit board, you should seek professional help from a spa technician.

Replacing Balboa Circuit Boards –

There are so many companies available that manufacture and supply hot tub circuit boards and each type may display the replacement information you require in a slightly different way. Out of all types, Balboa circuit boards are commonly used systems in the most spa packs. Most spa manufacturers have been using the Balboa spa packs over the years. When it comes to replacing Balboa circuit boards, you should know the chip number. Go through the below details and know how to find the chip number easily.

• Generally, a chip number is alphanumeric which you’ll find on the white label present on the black chip on the board.
• Remember, the chip number ends in a revision number like “R1A”, “R1B”, etc.
• However, the chip number defines the software used between the circuit board and topside control. This number will make sure that the topside control and circuit board work together.

Safety Precautions -

• Doing electric work around water can result in dangerous consequences. You should ensure that the power is disconnected while replacing a circuit board or working on any other electrical component.
• If you are not feeling confident about replacing the circuit board, you should seek for help from a noteworthy hot tub technician or an insured electrician.

Bottom Line –

Still have questions regarding the replacement or installation of Balboa circuit boards? If yes, then you shouldn’t hesitate to contact Northern Lights Cedar Tubs Direct as soon as possible at +1-800-759-8990.

What Makes Balboa BP501 Retrofit Kit an Ideal Spa Pack?

Are you looking to buy a replacement spa pack? If yes, then why don’t you purchase the Balboa BP501 retrofit kit spa pack! This spa pack comes with a 5.5 KW digital spa controller that features wireless smart phone integration. It integrates with your iPhone, iTouch, pad and android devices.

The Innovative Features of Balboa BP501 Spa Pack

Reliability –

The Balboa BP series comes with newly designed and highly advanced spa packs that focus on reliability. They use improved carbon bases that are highly flame retardant and impact resistant. The spa packs have new features like quick disconnect heater elements, Wi-FI connectivity, press and hold topside navigation buttons, etc.

Retrofit Kit –

Balboa BP501 is a retrofit kit and is specifically designed to replace the complete spa pack like Gecko, Colman, Hydro Quip, Spa Guts, Arctic Spa, LA Spas, Beach Comber, Sundance, Emerald Spas, Hydro Spa, Maxx Spa, Hot Spring, etc.

As discussed above, this retrofit kit has the TP600 digital top side controller, a set of cables for two pumps and ozone. In addition, you’ll find detailed retrofit instructions included in the kit allowing you to switch to Balboa – the world leader in the spa heating technology.

The Latest Technology –

The Balboa BP series spa packs use M7 technology, simply the best technology available on the market. They have complete digital circuitry that means there’ll be less failure, more accurate heating range (+/- 1 degree F). 

Now, the BP series replacement spa packs come with a high range of (80-104F) and a low range of (50-99 F) for their operation. With the patented M7 technology, these spa packs don’t require pressure sensors and remote heat sensors like other older spa packs. This innovative technology allows the spa pack to be placed in any direction or location.

The spa packs can operate at 120 VAC which will be able to produce 1.5 KW heat. If they will use 230 VAC, then they will produce 5.5 kW of heat. These systems can slave one of more auxiliary heater – each producing 4KW or 5.5KW, if they require more power.

Built-in Programmable Features –

The Balboa BP501 replacement spa package comes with built-in programmable features like 12-24 hour filter cycle programming by duration or time of day, different power saving modes including standard, economy, ozone suppression, clean up cycle, temperature lock, freeze protection, panel lock, standby mode for changing filter, sophisticated diagnosis, reminder measures, cleanup cycle, etc.

Final Consideration –

When you buy Balboa BP501 replacement spa pack from Northern Lights Cedar Tubs Direct, you’ll be provided with much more than just a quality product. Our on-staff engineer will help you during the buying process and will make the installation as simple and effortless as possible. Besides, we will be there for you during the ongoing support afterwards at free of cost.

If you really want to know our service difference, feel free to contact us today at 1-800-759-8990. We’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Why Do You Use Balboa Spa Heaters with M7 Technology?

When it comes to buying Balboa spa parts in Canada, there are certain things that come to your mind. Balboa spa heaters are something that needs immediate attention for your spa. The patented M7 smart sensor technology is used in the Balboa VS series spa heaters. This technology eliminates the issues of pressure switches virtually.

The main reason behind installing a VS series Balboa spa heater is the simple installation process. In addition, you won’t need to drill the holes into the spa for the installation. However, the overall cost of routine maintenance, adjustments, downtime and service charges are fairly less than their counterparts. The digitally controlled Balboa spa packs are considered as the most reliable systems available in the industry.

Their spa control systems use the field proven M7 control system which provides additional reliability and ease installation process as compared to older spa control systems. The software based M7 control systems make decisions as per the condition of the temperature and flow present within the spa heater. This innovative technology opens new possibilities as the system and heater can be installed on the pressure or suction side of the heat pump.

The M7 control system in Balboa spa packs feature with automatic diagnostics, electronic non pressure switches and dip switches. Some of the features can be configured in the field ensuring a greater level of flexibility. The smart sensors deliver multiple high limit safety system, eliminate additional cycling, and adapt to flow direction automatically. Most spa components cause electric noise which can affect different spa equipment. If you want to avoid this type of noise, Balboa controls feature built-in hardware and software filters to optimize the electric operations of the hot tub.

Balboa spa heaters engineered with M7 technology come with onboard output connectors that eliminate the maze of wires in the enclosure. As a result, it will significantly minimize the time for assembly, corrosion and obviously the margin for error. Connectors present inside the enclosure are less likely to come loose. Hence, there’ll be fewer holes in the enclosure which ensures that the entire system remains protected against moisture and chemical intrusion.

The Balboa spa packs have high amperage components like spa heaters, pumps and blowers. They can cause wear and tear on relays especially when they’re not switched on correctly. However, the EL/GL line of control in Balboa spa packs uses the “Zero Crossing Technology”. It results that the components are turned on and off at the maximum zero crossing of AC power.

This means, you can expect the relays to last a lifetime virtually. If you want better standard serviceability, you should consider the new BP501 systems that come with a new single board configuration and a quick connect heater system. You don’t need to remove heater straps; instead unplug the existing heater and plug in a new one.

If you’re looking to purchase Balboa spa parts like the Balboa spa heaters, you should look no further than Northern Lights Cedar Tubs Direct. Our Balboa spa heaters can replace almost any other spa heaters and rest assured that you’ll receive the perfect model for replacing the existing spa heater. If you find your existing spa heater is failing to work, feel free to contact us today at +1-800-759-8990 and let us provide you with a newer, energy-efficient unit.

Upgrade Your Existing Spa with Balboa VS501Z Hot Tub Heater

Are you looking to upgrade your existing spa heaters? If you need a top-quality replacement available on the market, you should look no further than Balboa VS501Z Hot Tub Heater engineered with M7 technology. The unsurpassed reliability and unmatched quality are something that makes Balboa spa heaters unbeaten in the spa industry.

Balboa VS501Z series spa heaters utilize industry-standard M7 technology on the market and are available with complete digital circuitry ensuring less failures, more accuracy in heating range and simple operation.

This Balboa spa heating pack works at 120 VAC producing 1.5KW or at 230 VAC producing 5.5 KW heat. It fits any standard 2” or 1 ½” plumbing system, which makes it a perfect addition to upgrade almost every old mechanical spa package.

Built-in Features –

Balboa VS501Z spa package has built-in programmable features like cycle programming, sleep mode, economy mode and self diagnosis. Though the built-in freeze protection system, it can eliminate the weather freeze ups effortlessly. You can be able to choose how much current will be drawn while allowing you use a 30 Amp or a 40 Amp breaker.

Receptacles –

This Balboa spa heating system has receptacles like one two speed pump, one one-speed pump or blower, one circulation pump, one ozonator, one constant-on for audio or visual devices and one 12 volt light. These receptacles can be switched to supply 120 Volts or 230 Volts except the light.

Easy Installation –

The Balboa VS501Z pack includes stainless steel made portable heater with 2” heater tail pieces. It comes with plasticized control instruction sheet and complete instruction manual for retrofit situations.

Patented Technology –

Though this spa pack is manufactured with patented M7 technology, it eliminates the requirement for pressure sensors and remote heat sensors. The technology allows the spa package to be positioned at any location or direction. The direction of flow doesn’t matter for the heating kit.

Main Difference between VS501 and VS501Z –

The Balboa VS501Z operates either at 220 VAC or 120 VAC accessories or a mixed combination. Both models require accessories like same voltage ozone as the primary pump that limits their applications. However, the VS501Z is the most current model lineup from Balboa group.

The Main Specifications –

• 10.56" Height, 19.5" Length and 4.60" Depth
• 12 V lighting supporting LED light
• UL, CSA, and CE Certified Model
• Additional Infrared Waterproof Remote Control
• 120 VAC or 220 VAC Ozone Support
• 120/240 VAC at 50/60 Hz
• 1^st Pump = 12 AMP Maximum, 2^nd Pump = 12 Amp Maximum; Blower = 8 Amp Maximum, 1^st Pump = 15 Amp, 2^nd Pump/Blower = 15 Amp, Circulation Pump = 5 Amp, Ozonator = 1 Amp, A/V = 5 Amp, Light = 12V at 1 Amp
• Two Years Manufacturer Warranty

 Important Things to Remember –

You can only use a secondary single speed pump or blower but not the both. If you use a small circulating pump, the flow through the spa heater must deliver 23 USGPM or more. The Balboa VS501Z Spa Heaters are made in America and work with following top-side controllers like Balboa VL404, Balboa VL400, Balboa VL402, Balboa VL406, Balboa VL200, VL260, VL240, Balboa VL406T, Balboa VL406U, Balboa VL403, and Balboa VL406.

Bottom Line –

If you want to learn more about Balboa VS501Z spa heaters, you should contact Northern Lights Cedar Tubs Direct at +1-800-759-8990. We’ll get back to you right away.

Replacing Balboa 5.5 KW Heater Tube with Titanium Heater Element- 55624

Are you looking for such a component that defines the specialty of spa experience? The answer is the hot tub heater. Balboa hot tub heaters are generally focused on the in-line heater space. They are literal pipes installed right in-line with existing plumbing fixtures. 

The configurations mount all of the needed sensors and have a built-in pressure switch, the important component that keeps the hot tub safe to use. This switch sends signals to shut down components within a fraction of seconds. The moment something seems going out of control – from water pressure to heat levels, you can rely on a Balboa hot tub heater to leap into action without hesitation. 

Balboa is the reigning champion in the spa heaters. Their parts are highly dependable. When they fail because of the damage, they’re very easy to repair. Over the use, every hot tub heater will fail. Likewise any heating element, most heater tubes have a life span of about five to ten years. 

Maintaining right water chemistry plays a significant role in improving the life of your Balboa hot tub heater tube. Again if you own a Balboa heater and your heating element fails, you won’t require replacing the entire heater. 

Instead, you can consider buying a Balboa heating element. The Balboa Heater Tube comes with two flow sensors and stainless steel housing as well as new 2” heater unions. Replacing a Balboa Heater Tube is quite simple. Even, you can get it done likewise most homeowners. 

How do you replace Balboa 5.5 KW Heater Tube with Titanium Heater Element- 55624?

PN 55624 is the most trustworthy and functional heater tube assembly used generally in the Balboa lineup of spa packs. This unit is available with sensors. The external heat tube is made of stainless steel and is of 2” diameter x 15” length.

This Balboa hot tub heater tube features titanium heater element that produces 5.5 KW at 240V and 1.375 KW at 120V. In addition, this kit contains 2” slip tail pieces, gaskets and split ring nuts and comes with one year warranty. 

 Balboa 5.5 KW Heater Tube with Titanium Heater Element- 55624 is specifically engineered for salt water pools or spas with high chlorine levels. If you require technical support, you’ll be provided with free lifetime assistance with the purchase of Balboa hot tub heater tube. 

 When you need replacement for Balboa heating element, feel free to contact Northern Lights Cedar Tubs Direct at 1-800-759-8990. We’ll provide you with full support including detailed instructions regarding the installation of Balboa hot tub heater tube. Nevertheless of your hot tub heating requirements, we’ll get you covered. Don’t hesitate to reach us today and let us help you out.

Take Advantage of Balboa Spa Heaters for Year-Round Spa Sessions

Do you’ve any idea of lounging around outside in bubbling warm water? It sounds appealing, right? But how do you accomplish this? Now, it’s time to bring the future of heating comfort to your spa or pool with spa heaters.

If you really want to heat up your pool or spa quickly, then Balboa spa heaters are the perfect way to go. It’s wise to upgrade your old spa pack and hot tub heater with Balboa spa kit. Out of all Balboa spa heaters, Balboa VS501z uses simply the best spa technology in the market. It features completely digital circuitry – which leads to less failures, more accurate heating, and much simpler to operate.

The Balboa VS501z Spa Heater –

The Balboa VS501z spa heater works at either 120 VAC producing 1.5KW or operates at 230 VAC producing 5.5 KW of heat energy. This heater fits any standard 2” or 1 ½” plumbing – which makes it ideal to upgrade almost any old spa pack.

Balboa spa packs can replace any hot tub heater in the market like Hydro Quip, LA Sas, Coleman Spas, Arctic Spas, Gecko, Hot Springs, Len Gordon, etc.

The Unique Features –

The Balboa spa heaters have built-in programmable features like cycle programming, sleep mode, economy mode, and self-diagnosis. In addition to, weather freeze ups can be eliminated easily with the built-in freeze protection system.

The heating systems have the ultimate ability to choose how much current will be drawn ensuring the use of 30 Amp breakers, or 40 Amp.

The Specialties –

Balboa spa heaters have receptacles for the following:

One 2-speed pump, one 1-speed pump or blower (but not both), one circulation pump, one ozonator, one constant-on for audio or visual devices, and one 12 volt light – all receptacles except light can be switched to supply 230 or 120 Volts.

The Balboa Spa Pack comes with:

• VS501Z pack – stainless steel portable heater with 2” heater tail pieces
• Plasticized control instruction sheet, complete instruction manual for retrofit situations

The Patented M7 Technology –

The M7 Technology eliminates the requirement of remote heat sensors and pressure sensors like older spa packs. This latest technology allows the spa pack to be kept in any location or direction. This means, the flow direction does not matter unlike other hot tub heaters.

The Specifications –

• 12 V light that supports LED lighting
• 120 or 220 VAC ozone support
• 10.56" height x 19.5" length x 4.60" depth
• UL, CSA, and CE certification
• 120/240 VAC at 50/60 Hz
• Additional infrared waterproof remote control
• 2 years manufacturer warranty

Conclusion –

Buying a new or looking to upgrade your existing spa heater? You should invest in Balboa spa heaters at Cedar Tubs Direct and get relaxing spa sessions year-round.

Check out our available spa heaters at https://www.cedartubsdirect.com/balboa-spa-parts-balboa-spa-heaters-c-115_146.html and make a perfect selection for your daily spa and hot-tub needs.