⚡ Balboa BP501G3 Spa Circuit Board — G1353 (No Circ Pump)
Up to three pumps, two-speed flexibility, and blower control — the genuine Balboa BP501G3 replacement PCB for non-circ hot tub systems
🔌 Product Overview
The Balboa BP501G3 Circuit Board (G1353) is a genuine Balboa Water Group main PCB and the definitive replacement for spa control systems built on the BP501G3 platform. It is the high-output member of the BP501 family, designed for spas that use up to three pumps — no dedicated circulation pump required or supported.
⚠️ Critical restriction: This board will NOT work with a dedicated circulation pump. If your spa has a circ pump, see the BP501G2 (G1352) board instead.
The BP501G3’s defining advantage over the BP501G1 and G2 is its ability to support two 2-speed pumps simultaneously — Pump 1 (2-speed, serves as the heater pump) and Pump 2 (2-speed or 1-speed), plus an optional third pump (1-speed) or blower via the J14 Aux output. This gives it the widest pump configuration range of any standard BP501 variant, covering everything from a single 2-speed pump setup (Setup 8) all the way to three pumps running together (Setup 1). The board also supports optional Pump 2 expansion via the X-P332 Expander Board (PN 59097), giving further flexibility for high-output spas.
Compatible with all Balboa TP-series topside control panels and widely used across many hot tub brands, the G1353 also supports Balboa Bluetooth Audio (bba™ and bba™2), CHROMAZON3™ LED color control, Wi-Fi module connectivity, and GFCI trip detection — making it one of the most capable boards in the BP501 family.
🌟 Key Features
✅ No Circ Pump — Up to Three Jet Pumps — Supports Pump 1 (2-speed, required), Pump 2 (2-speed or 1-speed, optional), Pump 3 (1-speed, optional), and Blower (1-speed, optional) across 8 field-configurable setups
✅ Two 2-Speed Pumps Simultaneously — Unique to the BP501G3: both Pump 1 and Pump 2 can be configured as 2-speed — a capability not available on the BP501G1 in circ mode
✅ Genuine Balboa Water Group OEM PCB — Factory original G1353 board; ensures correct relay ratings, software version (V44.0), and full firmware compatibility with BP501G3 control systems
✅ X-P332 Expander Board Support — Optional X-P332 expander (PN 59097) connects via J108 for Pump 2, with a dedicated 30A fuse providing branch circuit protection
✅ Wide Topside Panel Compatibility — Works with all TP-series panels: TP400T/W (US), TP600, TP800, TP900, Icon spaTouch™, Menued spaTouch™, and spaTouch™2; TP500 not listed in tech sheet — verify before installing
✅ Smart Technology Ready — Supports Balboa Bluetooth Audio (bba™ via TP800/TP900/spaTouch™; bba™2 via menu on TP600/TP400), CHROMAZON3™ LED color control, and optional ControlMySpa Wi-Fi module
✅ GFCI Trip Detection — Built-in Class A GFCI trip detection (enabled in software); freeze protection at 44°F (6.7°C); dual hi-limit sensor monitoring (Sensor A and Sensor B); heater dry-detection
✅ 8 Software Setup Configurations — Ships in Setup 1; field-configurable via DIP switch and topside panel to match any pump and blower combination
✅ UL Listed — UL System Model BP501-BP501G3-BU; designed and certified for North American 240VAC/60Hz electrical service
✅ BP7 Upgrade Alternative — The Balboa BP7 Control System is a compatible replacement that works with all TP topside panels and offers expanded pump and feature support
✅ 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty — Backed by Balboa Water Group’s standard 1-year limited warranty on PCB components
⚙️ Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Part Number | G1353 |
| System Part Numbers | 56582-04 (5.5kW 800 Incoloy), 56584-04 (5.5kW Titanium), 56901-02 (4.0kW 800 Incoloy) |
| Replacement PCBA | 56961-01 |
| Board Platform | BP501G3 |
| Board Type | Main PCB / Control Board |
| Circ Pump | ⚠️ NOT SUPPORTED — this board will not work with a circ pump |
| UL System Model | BP501-BP501G3-BU |
| Software Version | M100_201 V44.0 |
| Primary Input Voltage | 240VAC, 50/60Hz |
| Alternative Input Voltage | 120VAC — Setup 8 ONLY |
| Maximum Service Amperage (240V) | 48A |
| Circuit Breaker (240V) | 60A maximum |
| Service Amperage (120V, wall-mount GFCI) | 16A, 20A breaker max |
| Service Amperage (120V, GFCI cord) | 12A maximum |
| Minimum Wire Gauge | #6 AWG copper, 90°C rated |
| Terminal Block Torque (TB1) | 27–30 in. lbs. |
| Heater Connection Torque | 30–35 in. lbs. |
| Pump 1 Output | 240VAC, 2-Speed, 12A max — serves as the heater pump |
| Pump 2 Output | 240VAC, 2-Speed (1-Speed in Setups 3, 4 & 7; unused in Setups 6 & 8), 12A max |
| Pump 3 Output | 240VAC, 1-Speed, 12A max — Setups 1 & 3 only (via J14) |
| Blower Output | 240VAC, 1-Speed, 4A max — Setups 2, 4 & 6 (via J14) |
| Ozone Output | 240VAC (or 120V with P1), 0.5A max — slaved to Pump 1 Low |
| Spa Light Output | 10VAC, On/Off, 2A max (shared with CHROMAZON3™) |
| A/V (Stereo) Output | 120VAC, 4A max, always on |
| Heater — 5.5kW Version | 5.5kW @ 240VAC (800 Incoloy or Titanium) |
| Heater — 4.0kW Version | 4.0kW @ 240VAC (800 Incoloy) |
| Heater Flow Requirement | Minimum 20 GPM through heater |
| Expander Board | X-P332 (PN 59097) via J108 — for Pump 2 (2/1-speed), 30A fuse |
| Software Setups | 8 (Ships in Setup 1) |
| Hi-Range Temperature | 80°F–104°F (26.7°C–40°C); default 100°F |
| Lo-Range Temperature | 50°F–99°F (10°C–37.2°C); default 70°F |
| Freeze Protection Threshold | 44°F (6.7°C) |
| GFCI | Class A GFCI required; internal GFCI trip detection supported |
| Certifications | UL (BP501-BP501G3-BU) |
| Warranty | 1 Year (Balboa Water Group) |
| Physical Dimensions | Please refer to manufacturer documentation or contact Parts4Tubs |
| Operating Temperature Range | Please refer to manufacturer documentation or contact Parts4Tubs |
⚠️ US Voltage Note: This is a North American UL-listed board designed for 240VAC / 60Hz service. The 120VAC option applies to Setup 8 only. Always confirm your spa’s electrical configuration before ordering.
⚠️ Voltage Rule: Pump 1 and Ozone MUST be the same voltage. In Setup 8 (120V), both Pump 1 and Ozone must be rewired to 120VAC by moving wires at J50 and J51 to Area 1 (Neutral).
🔗 Compatibility Guide
Systems This Board Replaces
| Part Number | Description |
|---|---|
| G1353 | Balboa Water Group — current PCB part number |
| 56961-01 | Balboa replacement PCBA number |
| 56961 | Earlier PCBA variant |
| 56582 / 56582-01 through 56582-04 | Complete BP501G3 system — 5.5kW 800 Incoloy |
| 56583 / 56583-01 / 56583-02 | Complete BP501G3 system (discontinued) |
| 56584 / 56584-01 through 56584-04 | Complete BP501G3 system — 5.5kW Titanium |
| 56901-01 / 56901-02 | Complete BP501G3 system — 4.0kW 800 Incoloy |
| 56585 | Earlier BP501G3 board reference |
| 56713 | BP501G3 variant reference |
| 33-56585-K | Kit variation |
| 33-56961-K | Kit variation |
| BP501G3R1A | Chip designation |
| PBP501X | Alternate designation |
| MS50UR1C | Compatible replacement reference |
Compatible Topside Control Panels
| Panel | Minimum Version |
|---|---|
| spaTouch™2 | Any version (v2.0+ for bba™2; v2.19+ for CHROMAZON3™) |
| Icon spaTouch™ | Any version (v3.36+ for bba™2) |
| Menued spaTouch™ | Any version (v2.8+ for bba™2) |
| TP900 | Version 3.1+ (v3.13+ for bba™) |
| TP800 | Version 3.1+ (v3.13+ for bba™; v4.11+ for bba™2) |
| TP600 | Version 2.7+ (v2.12+ for bba™/bba™2 menu control) |
| TP400T (US) | Version 2.7+ — NOT supported in Setups 1–4 |
| TP400W (US) | Version 2.7+ — supported in Setups 5–8 (single pump) only |
⚠️ TP400T is not supported in Setups 1–4 (those with Pump 3 or both Pump 2 and Blower). Use TP400W for single-pump setups (Setups 5–8) only. Always verify panel compatibility against the Setup you will be using.
⚠️ Always verify your existing board’s part number before ordering. Do not select a replacement based on appearance — always match by part number label inside the control box.
🎛️ Board Functions & Controls
The BP501G3 vs. Other BP501 Variants
| Feature | BP501G1 | BP501G2 (G1352) | BP501G3 (G1353) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Circ Pump | 1-speed P1 only | ✅ Supported | ❌ Not supported |
| 2-speed P1 with Circ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| 2-speed P1 without Circ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 2-speed Pump 2 | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Pump 3 (1-speed) | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ Setups 1 & 3 |
| Max pumps (no circ) | 2 | 2 | 3 |
Pump Control
| Output | Connector | Setup Availability | Voltage | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pump 1 | J8 | ALL setups — heater pump | 240VAC | 12A max |
| Pump 2 (2-Speed) | J108 via Expander | Setups 1, 2, 5 | 240VAC | 12A max |
| Pump 2 (1-Speed) | J108 via Expander | Setups 3, 4, 7 | 240VAC | 12A max |
| Pump 2 (unused) | — | Setups 6, 8 | — | — |
| Pump 3 (1-Speed) | J14 | Setups 1 & 3 ONLY | 240VAC | 12A max |
| Blower (1-Speed) | J14 | Setups 2, 4 & 6 | 240VAC | 4A max |
| Ozone | J24 | All setups | 240VAC (or 120V) | 0.5A max |
Heater Control
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Heater Type | Balboa Incoloy (800 Inc) or Titanium element |
| 5.5kW Incoloy Heater Kit | PN 58306 |
| 5.5kW Titanium Heater Kit | PN 58308 |
| 4.0kW Incoloy Heater Kit | PN 58303 |
| Pump 1 serves as heater pump | All setups — Pump 1 Low must deliver 20 GPM |
| Hi-Limit Protection | Built-in via Sensor A and Sensor B |
| Dry Heater Detection | Built-in |
| Minimum Flow | 20 GPM through heater |
Setup Reference Table
| Setup # | Circ Pump | Pump 1 | Pump 2 | Pump 3 | Blower | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | None | 2-Speed | 2-Speed | 1-Speed | — | Default shipped setup |
| 2 | None | 2-Speed | 2-Speed | — | 1-Speed | |
| 3 | None | 2-Speed | 1-Speed | 1-Speed | — | |
| 4 | None | 2-Speed | 1-Speed | — | 1-Speed | |
| 5 | None | 2-Speed | 2-Speed | — | — | |
| 6 | None | 2-Speed | — | — | 1-Speed | |
| 7 | None | 2-Speed | 1-Speed | — | — | |
| 8 | None | 2-Speed | — | — | — | 120V capable |
DIP Switch Functions
| Switch | OFF Position | ON Position |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | Test Mode OFF (normal) | Test Mode ON |
| A2 | No 1 high-speed pump with heater | Add 1 high-speed pump with heater |
| A3 | No 2 high-speed pumps with heater | Add 2 high-speed pumps with heater |
| A4 | 1-min heater cooldown (electric) | 5-min heater cooldown (gas) |
| A5 | Special Amperage Rule A | Special Amperage Rule B |
| A6 | Persistent memory retained | Persistent memory reset on power-up |
Key Jumpers
| Jumper | Function |
|---|---|
| J44 | Center pins = 240V dedicated (no neutral); outer pins = 240V with neutral |
| J29 | Heater disable switch input |
| J109 | GFCI Test/Trip Enable/Disable |
| J25, J26, J27 | Heater type settings — factory configured, do NOT change |
🔧 Installation Requirements
⚠️ IMPORTANT: All electrical work must be performed by a licensed electrician in compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC) Article 680 and all applicable local codes.
Pre-Installation Checklist
- [ ] Confirm existing board is a BP501G3 variant (G1353, 56961, 56585, 56582, 56584, 56901, or other listed number)
- [ ] Confirm spa has NO dedicated circulation pump — this board cannot support one
- [ ] Note the current Setup number from the label inside the system lid
- [ ] Disconnect ALL power at the circuit breaker and GFCI before beginning
- [ ] Photograph all wiring and connector positions before removing the old board
- [ ] Allow capacitors to discharge — wait at least 5 minutes after power-off
- [ ] Confirm heater size (5.5kW or 4.0kW) and type (Incoloy or Titanium)
- [ ] Check whether Pump 2 uses the X-P332 Expander Board and note its position
Electrical Requirements
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage (standard) | 240VAC / 60Hz |
| Supply Voltage (120V option) | 120VAC — Setup 8 ONLY |
| Maximum Amperage (240V) | 48A |
| Circuit Breaker (240V) | 60A maximum |
| Circuit Breaker (120V, wall-mount GFCI) | 20A maximum |
| Circuit Breaker (120V, GFCI cord) | 15A (service limited to 12A) |
| GFCI Protection | Class A GFCI required — NEC Article 680-42 |
| Ground Connection | Equipment grounding and bonding — NEC Article 680 |
| Bonding Conductor | Solid copper to all metal within 5 ft of spa |
| Minimum Wire Gauge | #6 AWG copper, 90°C rated |
| Terminal Torque (TB1) | 27–30 in. lbs. |
| Heater Connection Torque | 30–35 in. lbs. |
| Dedicated Circuit | Required |
| Disconnect | Within line of sight of spa, at least 5 ft from water (NEC) |
💡 Tip: Write the Setup number on the label inside the system lid using a permanent marker before removing the old board — essential for configuring the replacement correctly.
⚠️ Safety Warnings
Electrical Safety:
- ⚠️ ALWAYS disconnect ALL power at the breaker and GFCI before touching any wiring
- ⚠️ Installation MUST be performed by a licensed electrician only
- ⚠️ This board requires 240VAC / 60Hz North American service (120VAC for Setup 8 only) — verify before connecting
- ⚠️ Class A GFCI protection is mandatory per NEC Article 680-42
- ⚠️ Use copper conductors ONLY — no aluminum wiring
- ⚠️ A dedicated circuit and disconnect within line of sight of the spa are required by NEC
- ⚠️ Never operate spa with covers removed from the electrical control enclosure
Board-Specific Warnings:
- ⚠️ DO NOT install this board in a spa with a dedicated circulation pump — it is not supported and will cause incorrect operation
- ⚠️ Pump 1 and Ozone MUST be the same voltage — never mix voltages between these outputs
- ⚠️ In Setup 8 (120V): DIP Switches A2 and A3 must be OFF, and J50/J51 must be moved to Area 1 (Neutral)
- ⚠️ J25, J26, J27 are factory configured — do NOT change these jumpers
- ⚠️ Setting DIP switches or jumpers incorrectly will cause abnormal system behavior or component damage
- ⚠️ TP400T is NOT supported in Setups 1–4 — do not use with these setups
Post-Installation:
- ⚠️ Run Priming Mode and verify all pumps are primed before heater activation
- ⚠️ Test GFCI function, hi-limit sensors, and freeze protection before first use
- ⚠️ Check topside display for error codes on initial startup
🔍 Error Codes & Troubleshooting
Common Topside Display Messages
| Code | Meaning | First Action |
|---|---|---|
| dr | Heater may be dry — will retest | Check water level, filter condition, closed valves, pump prime, flow rate |
| drY / dY | Verified dry heater — spa disabled | Resolve flow issue; press any button to reset after fix |
| CFE / CONFIG ERROR | DIP switch configuration conflict | Verify DIP switch settings match spa equipment and selected setup |
| CrC / CHKSUM FAIL | Firmware checksum error at power-up | Power off/on; if repeated, contact dealer |
| Sn / SN | Sensor fault (temperature or hi-limit) | Check sensor connections; swap Sensor A and B to isolate fault |
| – – – | Water temperature unknown | Normal — wait 2 minutes with Pump 1 running |
| J29 | Heater disable switch shorted | Check J29 connection; dismiss message with button press |
Troubleshooting Quick Reference
| Symptom | Likely Cause | First Step |
|---|---|---|
| Nothing operates | Breaker off / GFCI tripped | Reset breaker and GFCI; restore power |
| No heat | Low flow, wrong setup, or DIP switch issue | Check filter, water level, A2/A3 switch settings, Setup selection |
| GFCI trips immediately | Wiring fault or improper GFCI installation | Contact licensed electrician |
| Pump 2 not responding | Expander board not connected, wrong setup, or wrong wiring | Verify X-P332 expander connection at J108; check Setup selection |
| Pump 3 not responding | Wrong setup selected | Pump 3 is only available in Setups 1 & 3 |
| Blower not responding | Wrong setup selected or wiring issue | Blower only available in Setups 2, 4 & 6; check J14 wiring |
| Display shows “T” after temp | Test Mode active (DIP Switch A1 ON) | Move A1 to OFF position to exit Test Mode |
🎯 Ideal Applications
| Application | Suitability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ♨️ Spa with two 2-speed pumps (no circ) | ✅ Perfect fit — unique to BP501G3 | Setups 1, 2, or 5 |
| ♨️ Spa with two pumps plus third pump | ✅ Supported | Setups 1 or 3 — Pump 3 via J14 |
| ♨️ Spa with two pumps plus blower | ✅ Supported | Setups 2 or 4 — Blower via J14 |
| ♨️ Spa with one pump plus blower (no circ) | ✅ Supported | Setup 6 |
| ♨️ Spa with single 2-speed pump only | ✅ Supported | Setups 7 or 8 |
| ♨️ Replacing failed BP501G3 board | ✅ Direct replacement | Match Setup number and configure DIP switches |
| ♨️ Spa WITH a dedicated circ pump | ❌ Not suitable | Use BP501G2 (G1352) instead |
| ♨️ Upgrade to BP7 needed | ✅ BP7 is compatible alternative | BP7 offers up to 4 pumps, 32 setups, Wi-Fi, and bba™ support |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if this board fits my spa? A: Locate the part number label on the existing circuit board inside your spa’s control box. If it reads G1353, 56961, 56585, 56582, 56584, or 56901 (any revision), this is the correct replacement. Also confirm your spa has no dedicated circulation pump. Contact Parts4Tubs with your system label if uncertain.
Q: My spa doesn’t have a circ pump — is this the right board? A: If your existing board is a BP501G3 variant and your spa has no circ pump, yes — this is the correct board. If your spa has a circ pump, you need the BP501G2 (G1352) instead.
Q: What is the key difference between the BP501G3 and BP501G1/G2? A: The BP501G3 is the only BP501 variant that supports two 2-speed pumps simultaneously plus an optional third pump or blower — all without a circ pump. The BP501G1 supports a circ pump with only 1-speed Pump 1. The BP501G2 supports a circ pump with either 1-speed or 2-speed Pump 1 but cannot have a 2-speed Pump 2.
Q: Can I use the BP7 system as an alternative? A: Yes. The Balboa BP7 Control System is a confirmed compatible replacement that works with all TP topside panels and offers expanded features including up to 4 pump outputs, 32 setup configurations, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth Audio. Contact Parts4Tubs for guidance on whether the BP7 upgrade is right for your spa.
Q: Does this board support a 2-speed Pump 2? A: Yes — in Setups 1, 2, and 5, Pump 2 operates as a 2-speed pump (via the X-P332 Expander Board). In Setups 3, 4, and 7, Pump 2 is 1-speed. In Setups 6 and 8, Pump 2 is not used.
Q: Do I need an expander board for Pump 2? A: Yes. Pump 2 on the BP501G3 connects through the X-P332 Expander Board (PN 59097) at connector J108, which provides a dedicated 30A fuse. If your spa uses Pump 2, confirm the expander board is installed and connected.
Q: Do I need a licensed electrician to install this? A: Yes. NEC Article 680 and most local jurisdictions require a licensed electrician for all spa electrical work, including board replacement. A permit may also be required. Incorrect installation can cause fire, electrocution, or equipment damage.
Q: Will my existing topside panel work with this board? A: Most Balboa TP panels are compatible. Important exception: the TP400T is NOT supported in Setups 1–4 (those with Pump 3 or Pump 2 + Blower). Use TP400W for single-pump setups only. Contact Parts4Tubs with your panel model number if uncertain.
Q: What warranty is included? A: Balboa Water Group provides a 1-year limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship from the date of purchase. Contact Parts4Tubs for warranty claim assistance.
Q: What if I get error codes after installation? A: The most common post-installation issues involve incorrect Setup selection, DIP switch configuration, or wiring of the J14 output (Pump 3 vs Blower). Verify Setup number, DIP switch settings, and J14 wiring (move J20 to J13 for Blower in Setups 2, 4, and 6). Contact our technical support team for guided troubleshooting.
📥 Downloads & Resources
📄 Balboa BP501G3 Tech Sheet — Current (Official Manufacturer PDF) — Complete specifications, setup tables, wiring diagrams, DIP switch definitions, jumper descriptions, fuse part numbers, and heater kit numbers
🏆 Why Choose the Balboa BP501G3 (G1353)?
✅ Maximum Pump Flexibility Without a Circ Pump — Three pumps plus a blower option, across 8 configurable setups — the highest output configuration in the standard BP501 family
✅ Two 2-Speed Pumps Simultaneously — Only BP501 variant that supports 2-speed on both Pump 1 and Pump 2, delivering full jet performance across two pump circuits
✅ Genuine OEM Component — Actual Balboa Water Group board with correct relay ratings, UL certification, and software version V44.0 for BP501G3 systems
✅ CHROMAZON3™ and bba™ Ready — Supports Balboa Bluetooth Audio and CHROMAZON3™ LED color control — future-ready features already integrated into the board
✅ UL Listed — North American safety certification under UL System Model BP501-BP501G3-BU
✅ Built-In Safety — Class A GFCI trip detection, freeze protection at 44°F, dual hi-limit sensor monitoring, heater dry-detection, and heater disable input (J29)
✅ Wi-Fi Module Support — Optional ControlMySpa Wi-Fi module connects via J33 or J45 for app-based control
✅ BP7 Upgrade Path Available — If more pumps or expanded features are needed, the BP7 is a confirmed compatible upgrade
✅ 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty — Backed by Balboa Water Group
🤝 Why Buy From Parts4Tubs?
✅ US-based company with expert local support
✅ Fast US shipping on in-stock parts
✅ Spa specialists available for technical advice and compatibility verification
✅ Competitive pricing on genuine Balboa OEM parts
✅ Full warranty support — we handle claims with the manufacturer on your behalf
✅ Easy returns within 30 days on eligible items
✅ Compatible accessories available — topside panels, expander boards, sensors, heater kits, and more
✅ Expert guidance on BP501G3, BP501G2, or BP7 upgrade options for your spa
✨ Summary
The Balboa BP501G3 Circuit Board (G1353) is the genuine OEM replacement for the highest-output standard BP501 variant — supporting up to three pumps including two 2-speed pumps simultaneously, plus a blower option across 8 field-configurable setups, all without a dedicated circ pump. UL listed, compatible with all major Balboa topside panels (with noted TP400T exceptions), and supporting bba™, CHROMAZON3™, and optional Wi-Fi, it is the correct choice for high-output non-circ hot tub systems. Backed by a 1-year Balboa warranty. Order from Parts4Tubs today.
Parts4Tubs is proud to be a Balboa Authorized Online Seller - make sure you only buy genuine Balboa parts from trusted sources.
Parts4Tubs is proud to be a Balboa Authorized Online Seller - make sure you only buy genuine Balboa parts from trusted sources.
Finding and identifying a replacement Hot Tub Circuit Board (PCB)
If you are looking to replace a failed PCB on your Hot Tub’s spa pack, then quite often identifying the part that you need can be the hardest thing.
Firstly, you are looking for a model number on the actual circuit board itself. Having the model or serial of your hot tub is not going to help at this point, you need to find the number on the PCB itself.
Now, with certain brands of PCB, the number of the replacement PCB that you need is not going to match identically the one you are replacing. Why is that I hear you ask?
Well, normally, it is an updated version. This means that it might have updated firmware on the PCB or be a later revision. Normally, this means that the part number would be slightly different. This is usually indicated with a “12345678 -x” at the end of that part number where x indicated a firmware revision.
In some cases, there will be some following letters on the part number of the circuit board, “12345678 -x MAS” this can indicate that the PCB was used for an OEM meaning it was produced for a certain hot tub manufacturer and the letters identify the manufacturer.
This means if you source an original PCB, it will not have the letters, but will in most cases work just fine.
It can be confusing I know!
What if you can’t find a model number?
If you can’t find a model number on the PCB itself, then you need to look for a model number on the spa pack. Normally, there is a sticker on the outside of the spa pack that tells you the current ratings and input voltages etc and this will have a model number.
In general, most spa packs in the USA are manufactured by Balboa, Hydro-Quip, ACC or Gecko. I know I am generalising here, but if you have a spa pack that has the brand of your hot tub on, it will be an OEM so the key is identifying who made the original box.
From there, you can normally find an original PCB that you will be able to switch out.
For example, the Balboa VS (value series) is a very popular spa pack that has been used by multiple hot tub manufacturers under their own brand names. Whatever they have called it, strip it back and it is still a Balboa VS.
Visual Inspection
One of the most important things you can do when you are looking for a replacement is to visually inspect the PCB that you have versus the picture online of the replacement you are considering. They need to look the same even if there are the differences in firmware revisions or OEM part numbers, you should be visually replacing a PCB that looks like the one you have.
Configuring a replacement Hot Tub Circuit Board (PCB)
When you get a new PCB, you are more than likely going to need to configure it. Most PCBs have a number of different modes and setups that the can operate in. For this, you will need to manual or spec sheet to guide you.
For things like DIP switches, most of the time you can copy the settings from your original circuit board. You are looking for things like setting the voltage as a lot of PCBs can be configured to run on both 115V and 230V.
You may need to move jumpers or even wires to configure voltages – the key here is that you read the schematic and don’t expect the PCB to just work out of the box – it usually doesn’t.
Troubleshooting a Hot Tub Circuit Board (PCB)
Here are some common things you will see when you replace a PCB on a hot tub.
You press the buttons on the topside control and they don’t control the right parts (pumps or blower etc) – this is a mode configuration thing and you will either need to change some DIP switches on the PCB or an internal or low level programming mode on the topside control. Check the manual for how to do this.
You turn on the hot tub and it trips the breaker – it is not common for a new PCB to fail out of the box (I have not seen one yet!) However, a common mistake is that the voltage has not been set correctly. If it is set for 115V and then you try and turn it on, the current draw will be a lot more (twice) than expected and the breaker will trip.
To check this, unplug all of your kit – heater, pumps, blower and then turn on the PCB. If it trips with nothing plugged in, usually the voltage is incorrectly set and what is happening is that live current is being sent to the ground – because you have 4 wires into the PCB rather than 3. Current on the ground loop causes the trip. Check the settings to make sure it is configures for 230V.
It might not trip until you physically turn on a pump or a blower. As mentioned, if the pack is set to 115V and your pump is meant for 230V, it will draw twice the current at half the voltage and trip your breaker. Check the manual for info on how to set the voltage.



