🛁 Balboa VX20 Auxiliary Control Panel – Dual-Button Remote Control for GS Series Spas
Two-button auxiliary panel with RJ45 connection for GS Series spa systems
📋 Product Overview
The Balboa VX20 Auxiliary Control Panel (TS-VX204) is a dual-button auxiliary panel designed specifically for Balboa GS Series spa systems. Unlike the AX series which uses 6-pin connectors and works with GL/BP systems, the VX20 features an RJ45 connection making it compatible with GS Series control systems (SZ and above).
This rectangular panel features a face size of 114 mm × 57 mm and fits into a rectangular cutout measuring 90 mm × 35 mm. The VX20 comes with an extended 5.5-metre cable length (longer than the standard 5m on AX series), providing even greater flexibility for installation in larger spas. Operating at 12V, the panel connects via an RJ45 socket on the spa pack’s PCB.
Ideal for larger hot tubs where users need secondary controls away from the main topside panel, the VX20 allows control of spa functions from lounger positions or opposite ends of the spa. The overlay is included with this model, making it ready to install.
⭐ Key Features
- ✅ Dual Button Design – Two-button auxiliary control
- ✅ GS Series Compatible – Works with GS Series (SZ and above)
- ✅ RJ45 Connection – Easy plug-and-play installation
- ✅ Extended 5.5m Cable – Longer than standard AX series
- ✅ Rectangular Design – 114 mm × 57 mm face
- ✅ Standard Cutout – Fits 90 mm × 35 mm hole
- ✅ 12V Operation – Safe low voltage design
- ✅ Overlay Included – Ready to install immediately
- ✅ Remote Positioning – Control from secondary location
- ✅ Genuine Balboa Quality – Manufactured to Balboa standards
🔧 Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Balboa |
| Model | VX20 |
| Model Series | VX |
| Product Type | Auxiliary Panel |
| SKU | TS-VX204 |
| Number of Buttons | 2 |
| Face Length | 114 mm |
| Face Height | 57 mm |
| Hole Length | 90 mm |
| Hole Height | 35 mm |
| Cable Length | 5.5 m |
| Operating Voltage | 12V |
| Connection Type | RJ45 |
| Compatible Systems | GS Series (SZ and above) |
| Overlay Included | ✅ Yes |
| Box Quantity | 16 |
🔌 Compatibility Guide
This Auxiliary Panel is Compatible With:
| Spa Pack Series | Models | Confirmed |
|---|---|---|
| GS Series | SZ and above | ✅ |
NOT Compatible With:
- ❌ GL Series (GL2000, GL8000, etc.) – Use AX series instead
- ❌ BP Series – Use AX series instead
- ❌ GS Series below SZ – Check spa pack compatibility
Connection Requirements:
- Spa pack must have available RJ45 auxiliary port
- Must be GS Series system (SZ model and above)
- 12V auxiliary power supply from spa pack
📍 How to Verify Compatibility:
- Check your spa pack is GS Series (SZ or higher)
- Locate the RJ45 auxiliary port on your PCB
- Verify your spa pack supports auxiliary panel connection
⚠️ Important: The VX20 uses RJ45 connection and is ONLY compatible with GS Series systems. For GL or BP systems, use the AX series auxiliary panels instead.
🎛️ Button Functions
Dual Button Operation:
The VX20 features 2 configurable buttons. The specific functions controlled depend on your spa pack configuration and may include:
| Button | Possible Functions |
|---|---|
| Button 1 | Jets / Pump 1 / Light |
| Button 2 | Jets / Pump 2 / Blower / Light |
Note: The exact button functions are determined by your GS Series spa pack configuration. Refer to your spa pack documentation for specific button assignments.
🔄 VX vs AX Series Comparison
Key Differences Between VX and AX Auxiliary Panels:
| Feature | VX Series | AX Series |
|---|---|---|
| Connection | RJ45 | 6-Pin (2×3) |
| Compatible Systems | GS Series (SZ+) | GL Series, BP Series |
| Cable Length | 5.5 m | 5 m |
| Panel Shape | Rectangular | Circular (AX10/20) or Rectangular (AX40) |
Choose VX20 When:
- Your spa has a GS Series control system (SZ or above)
- Your spa pack has RJ45 auxiliary ports
- You need the extended 5.5m cable length
Choose AX Series When:
- Your spa has GL Series or BP Series control system
- Your spa pack has 6-pin auxiliary ports
💡 Purpose & Application
What is an Auxiliary Panel?
Unlike main topside control panels that provide full spa control (temperature, all pumps, lights, modes), auxiliary panels are secondary controls designed to operate specific functions from remote locations around the spa.
Why Use a VX20?
| Scenario | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Large hot tubs with loungers | Control functions from relaxed position |
| GS Series spa systems | Proper RJ45 compatibility |
| Extended installation distances | 5.5m cable for longer reach |
| Multi-user spas | Secondary access to controls |
Typical Installation Locations:
- Near lounger seating areas
- Opposite end of spa from main topside
- Near steps for convenient access
- Secondary user positions in large spas
⚙️ Installation Guide
Before Installation:
- ⚠️ Disconnect power to spa at the isolator/breaker before any work
- ⚠️ Verify your spa pack is GS Series (SZ or above)
- ⚠️ Locate available RJ45 auxiliary port on PCB
- ⚠️ Plan cable routing (5.5 m available length)
- ⚠️ Prepare rectangular 90 mm × 35 mm cutout at desired location
Installation Steps:
- Turn off power at the isolator/breaker
- Cut or prepare rectangular 90 mm × 35 mm hole at desired location
- Route the 5.5 m cable from installation point to spa pack
- Connect the RJ45 plug to the spa pack’s RJ45 auxiliary port
- Mount the VX20 panel in the rectangular cutout
- Apply included overlay
- Secure panel and ensure watertight seal
- Restore power and test button functions
Mounting Information:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Face Size | 114 mm × 57 mm |
| Required Cutout | 90 mm × 35 mm (Rectangular) |
| Cable Length | 5.5 m |
| Connection | RJ45 plug |
| Mounting Type | Push-fit into rectangular hole |
⚠️ Professional installation recommended for drilling into spa shell and ensuring watertight sealing.
🔗 Wiring & Connection
Connector Information:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Connector Type | RJ45 |
| Cable Length | 5.5 metres |
| Operating Voltage | 12V |
Connection Location:
The VX20 connects to the RJ45 auxiliary port on GS Series spa packs. The RJ45 plug provides a secure, easy plug-and-play connection.
⚠️ Never force the connector. The RJ45 plug should click into place easily. If it doesn’t fit, verify you’re connecting to the correct port on a compatible GS Series system.
🔍 Troubleshooting
Common Issues:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No buttons responding | No power or loose connection | Check power and reseat RJ45 connector |
| One button not working | Function not configured | Check spa pack settings |
| RJ45 won’t connect | Wrong spa pack type | Verify GS Series (SZ+) compatibility |
| Intermittent operation | Cable damage or poor connection | Inspect cable and RJ45 connector |
| Panel loose in hole | Incorrect cutout size | Check 90 × 35 mm cutout dimensions |
Important Notes:
- The VX20 is ONLY compatible with GS Series (SZ and above)
- If you have GL or BP Series, you need an AX series panel instead
- Button functions depend on spa pack configuration
🛠️ Maintenance & Care
Routine Care:
| Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Wipe with soft damp cloth | Weekly |
| Check button response | Monthly |
| Inspect cable condition | Annually |
| Check watertight seal | Annually |
| Check overlay condition | Annually |
DO NOT:
- ❌ Use abrasive cleaners
- ❌ Pull or stress the cable
- ❌ Submerge RJ45 connection
- ❌ Force button operation
- ❌ Use on non-GS Series systems
♨️ Ideal Applications
| Application | Suitability |
|---|---|
| ♨️ GS Series spa systems | ✅ Ideal |
| ♨️ Large hot tubs (6+ person) | ✅ Ideal |
| ♨️ Lounger seating areas | ✅ Ideal |
| ♨️ Extended cable requirements | ✅ Ideal (5.5m) |
| 🔄 Replacement for existing VX20 | ✅ Direct replacement |
| ❌ GL Series systems | ❌ Use AX series |
| ❌ BP Series systems | ❌ Use AX series |
Common Installation Scenarios:
- 🛁 GS Series spas with multiple seating zones
- 💆 Large spas needing extended cable reach
- ♨️ Premium GS installations with lounger positions
- 🔄 Replacing faulty VX20 auxiliary panels
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between VX20 and AX20?
A: The VX20 uses an RJ45 connection and is designed for GS Series spa systems, while the AX20 uses a 6-pin connection and is designed for GL and BP Series systems. They are NOT interchangeable – you must use the correct series for your spa pack.
Q: Is my spa compatible with the VX20?
A: The VX20 is compatible with GS Series spa packs (SZ model and above). Check your spa pack label to confirm it’s a GS Series system. If you have GL or BP Series, you need an AX series auxiliary panel instead.
Q: Is the overlay included?
A: Yes, the overlay is included with the TS-VX204.
Q: Why is the cable longer than AX series?
A: The VX20 comes with a 5.5m cable compared to 5m on AX series panels, providing extra length for installations requiring greater reach.
Q: What size cutout do I need?
A: The VX20 requires a rectangular 90 mm × 35 mm cutout. The panel face is 114 mm × 57 mm.
Q: What functions do the buttons control?
A: The specific button functions are configured in your GS Series spa pack. Common configurations include Jets, Pump, Blower, or Light control. Refer to your spa pack documentation for your specific configuration.
Q: Can I use this with my GL2000 system?
A: No, the VX20 is only compatible with GS Series systems. For GL2000 or other GL/BP systems, you need an AX series auxiliary panel (such as AX10, AX20, or AX40).
Q: Is RJ45 the same as an ethernet cable?
A: The RJ45 connector is the same physical type used in ethernet cables, but it carries 12V power and control signals for the spa, not network data. Do not connect to ethernet/network equipment.
🏆 Why Choose the Balboa VX20 (TS-VX204)
- ✅ GS Series Compatible – Designed specifically for GS systems
- ✅ RJ45 Connection – Easy plug-and-play installation
- ✅ Extended Cable – 5.5m for greater reach than AX series
- ✅ Dual Button Control – Two configurable functions
- ✅ Genuine Balboa Quality – Manufactured to Balboa standards
- ✅ Overlay Included – Ready to install immediately
- ✅ Rectangular Design – Clean, professional appearance
- ✅ 12V Safety – Safe low voltage operation
🇬🇧 Why Buy from Parts4Tubs
- ✅ UK-based company with local support
- ✅ Fast UK delivery
- ✅ Expert advice from spa specialists
- ✅ Compatibility assistance for GS and GL systems
- ✅ Full warranty support
- ✅ Easy returns within 30 days
- ✅ Both VX and AX series available
✨ Summary
The Balboa VX20 Auxiliary Control Panel (TS-VX204) is a dual-button auxiliary panel designed specifically for GS Series spa systems (SZ and above). Unlike AX series panels, the VX20 features RJ45 connection for easy plug-and-play installation. Featuring a rectangular 114 mm × 57 mm face that fits a 90 mm × 35 mm cutout, with extended 5.5-metre cable (longer than AX series), 12V operation, and RJ45 connector. Compatible with GS Series only – NOT for GL or BP systems. Overlay included. Order from Parts4Tubs for fast UK delivery and expert compatibility advice.



