⚠️ Balboa AX10-A3 Auxiliary Control Panel (Blower) – Remote Air Blower Control for Larger Spas
✨ Single-button auxiliary panel for Blower control from a secondary location – compatible with GL and BP spa systems
⚠️ DISCONTINUED PRODUCT NOTICE
This product (TS-AX103) has been discontinued by Balboa.
Recommended Replacement: TS-AX113 (overlay to be added separately)
📋 Product Overview
The Balboa AX10-A3 Auxiliary Control Panel is a compact single-button remote control designed for larger hot tubs and spas where users need to activate the air blower from a secondary location away from the main topside controls. This auxiliary panel provides convenient remote access to your spa’s air blower system without needing to reach the main control panel.
Featuring a circular design with 54 mm diameter, the AX10-A3 fits into a standard 32 mm hole and comes with an impressive 5-metre cable length, allowing flexible installation at various positions around the spa. Operating at 12V, this panel connects via a 6-pin connector (2 rows of 3 pins) to the spa pack’s auxiliary port.
The AX10-A3 is compatible with all GL Systems (including GL2000 and GL8000) as well as BP series spa packs, making it versatile for a wide range of Balboa-controlled hot tubs. The connector fits any port with a 6-pin slot connection on the PCB. This model includes the overlay for ready installation.
⭐ Key Features
- ✅ Blower Control – Dedicated air blower activation
- ✅ Wide Compatibility – Works with all GL Systems and BP systems
- ✅ 5-Metre Cable – Long reach for flexible positioning
- ✅ Compact Circular Design – 54 mm diameter
- ✅ Standard Hole Size – Fits 32 mm cutout
- ✅ Remote Installation – Control blower away from main topside
- ✅ 12V Operation – Safe low voltage design
- ✅ 6-Pin Connection – 2 rows of 3 pins connector
- ✅ Overlay Included – Ready to install
- ✅ Universal Port Fit – Fits any 6-pin slot on PCB
🔧 Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Balboa |
| Model | AX10-A3 |
| Model Series | AX |
| Product Type | Auxiliary Panel |
| SKU | TS-AX103 |
| Number of Buttons | 1 |
| Button Function | Blower |
| Cable Length | 5 m |
| Panel Diameter | 54 mm |
| Fits Hole Size | 32 mm |
| Operating Voltage | 12V |
| Connection Type | 6 Small Plastic Pins (2 Rows of 3) |
| Maximum Pumps Controlled | 0 |
| Blower/Auxiliary Outputs | 1 |
| Overlay Included | ✅ Yes |
| Status | ⚠️ DISCONTINUED |
| Replacement Model | TS-AX113 |
🔗 Compatibility Guide
This Auxiliary Panel is Compatible With:
| Spa Pack Series | Models | Confirmed |
|---|---|---|
| GL Series | All GL Systems | ✅ |
| GL Series | GL2000 | ✅ |
| GL Series | GL8000 | ✅ |
| BP Series | BP Systems | ✅ |
Connection Compatibility:
The AX10-A3 plug fits onto any port with a 6-pin slot connection on the spa pack PCB. This universal 6-pin connection ensures broad compatibility across Balboa control systems.
⚠️ Important: This panel controls the air blower. Ensure your spa has an air blower installed and configured before installation.
🔘 Button Function
Single Button Operation:
| Button | Function |
|---|---|
| BLOWER | Activate/deactivate air blower |
Operating Notes:
- Press once to activate the air blower
- Press again to deactivate
- Some systems may support variable blower speeds
- Behaviour depends on spa pack configuration
💨 What is an Air Blower?
An air blower is a spa component that forces air through dedicated air jets (sometimes called “bubblers” or “air injectors”) to create a champagne-like bubbling effect in the water. This provides a different sensation compared to water jets, offering a gentler, more relaxing massage experience.
Air Blower vs Water Jets:
| Feature | Air Blower | Water Jets |
|---|---|---|
| Medium | Air bubbles | Water streams |
| Sensation | Gentle, effervescent | Targeted, powerful |
| Sound | Quieter bubbling | Motor/pump noise |
| Temperature | Can cool water slightly | Maintains temperature |
| Use Case | Relaxation, gentle massage | Deep tissue massage |
🎯 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.
AX10 Series Comparison:
| Model | Controls | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| AX10-A1 | Jets 1 (Pump 1) | Primary jet pump remote |
| AX10-A2 | Jets 2 (Pump 2) | Secondary jet pump remote |
| AX10-A3 | Blower | Air blower remote |
Why Use an AX10-A3?
| Scenario | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Large hot tubs | Control blower from remote location |
| Relaxation zones | Easy access to gentle bubble massage |
| Lounger positions | Quick blower activation while reclined |
| Party/social use | Multiple control points for guests |
Typical Installation Locations:
- Near lounger seating areas
- Opposite end of spa from main topside
- Adjacent to air jet zones
- Secondary user positions in large spas
⚙️ Installation Guide
Before Installation:
- ⚠️ Disconnect power to spa at the isolator/breaker before any work
- ⚠️ Verify your spa has an air blower installed and configured
- ⚠️ Locate available 6-pin auxiliary port on PCB
- ⚠️ Plan cable routing (5 m available length)
- ⚠️ Prepare 32 mm hole at desired location
Installation Steps:
- Turn off power at the isolator/breaker
- Drill or prepare 32 mm hole at desired auxiliary control location
- Route the 5 m cable from installation point to spa pack
- Connect the 6-pin connector to any available 6-pin slot on the PCB
- Mount the AX10-A3 panel in the 32 mm hole
- Secure panel and ensure watertight seal
- Restore power and test blower function
Mounting Information:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Panel Diameter | 54 mm |
| Required Hole Size | 32 mm |
| Cable Length | 5 m |
| Connection | 6 small plastic pins (2 rows of 3) |
| Mounting Type | Push-fit into hole |
⚠️ Professional installation recommended for drilling into spa shell and ensuring watertight sealing.
⚡ Wiring & Connection
Connector Information:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Connector Type | 6 Small Plastic Pins |
| Pin Configuration | 2 Rows of 3 Pins |
| Cable Length | 5 metres |
| Operating Voltage | 12V |
Connection Location:
The AX10-A3 connector fits any port with a 6-pin slot connection on the spa pack PCB. Compatible with all GL Systems (GL2000, GL8000, etc.) and BP series spa packs.
⚠️ Never force the connector. The 6-pin auxiliary connector is different from the 8-pin main topside connector. Ensure you connect to the correct port type.
🔍 Troubleshooting
Common Issues:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Button not responding | No power or loose connection | Check power and reseat 6-pin connector |
| Blower doesn’t activate | Blower not configured or faulty | Check blower configuration and connections |
| Jets activate instead | Connected to wrong auxiliary port | Check wiring corresponds to blower output |
| Intermittent operation | Cable damage or poor connection | Inspect cable and connectors |
| Panel loose in hole | Incorrect hole size or worn mounting | Check 32 mm hole size |
Important Notes:
- The AX10-A3 only controls the blower – it cannot control jets or other functions
- Ensure your spa pack has an air blower installed and configured
- If blower doesn’t work from the AX10-A3 but works from main topside, check auxiliary port connection
🧹 Maintenance & Care
Routine Care:
| Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Wipe with soft damp cloth | Weekly |
| Check button response | Monthly |
| Inspect cable condition | Annually |
| Check watertight seal | Annually |
DO NOT:
- ❌ Use abrasive cleaners
- ❌ Pull or stress the cable
- ❌ Submerge cable connections
- ❌ Force button operation
🎯 Ideal Applications
| Application | Suitability |
|---|---|
| ♨️ Spas with air blower system | ✅ Ideal |
| ♨️ Large hot tubs (6+ person) | ✅ Ideal |
| ♨️ Relaxation/therapy spas | ✅ Ideal |
| 🔄 Replacement for faulty AX10-A3 | ✅ Exact match |
| ♨️ Spas without air blower | ❌ Not applicable |
Common Replacement Scenarios:
- 💔 Non-responsive button
- 🔌 Damaged cable
- 💧 Water ingress damage
- 🔘 Worn overlay
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between AX10-A1, AX10-A2, and AX10-A3?
A: The AX10-A1 controls Jets 1 (first jet pump), AX10-A2 controls Jets 2 (second jet pump), and AX10-A3 controls the air blower. They are otherwise identical in specifications.
Q: Can this panel control jets or other functions?
A: No, the AX10-A3 is specifically configured for blower control only. For jet control, you need the AX10-A1 (Jets 1) or AX10-A2 (Jets 2).
Q: Which spa packs is this compatible with?
A: The AX10-A3 is compatible with all GL Systems (including GL2000, GL8000) and BP series spa packs. The connector fits any 6-pin slot on the PCB.
Q: This product is discontinued – what should I use instead?
A: The recommended replacement is TS-AX113. Note that the overlay needs to be added separately with the replacement model.
Q: Is the overlay included?
A: Yes, this model (TS-AX103) includes the overlay. Note that the replacement model (TS-AX113) requires the overlay to be purchased separately.
Q: Do I need an air blower for this to work?
A: Yes, the AX10-A3 controls the air blower, which requires your spa to have an air blower system installed and configured in the spa pack.
Q: What is an air blower and how is it different from jets?
A: An air blower forces air through dedicated air injectors to create gentle bubbles, while water jets use pumps to create powerful water streams. The blower provides a gentler, more relaxing massage sensation.
Q: What size hole do I need to drill?
A: The AX10-A3 requires a 32 mm diameter hole. The panel itself is 54 mm in diameter (the flange that sits on top of the spa shell).
🏆 Why Choose the Balboa AX10-A3
- ✅ Genuine Balboa Quality – Manufactured to Balboa’s standards
- ✅ Blower Control – Dedicated air blower activation
- ✅ Wide Compatibility – Works with all GL and BP systems
- ✅ 5-Metre Cable – Generous length for flexible installation
- ✅ Compact Design – 54 mm diameter, fits 32 mm hole
- ✅ 12V Safety – Safe low voltage operation
- ✅ Overlay Included – Ready to install
🤝 Why Buy from Parts4Tubs
- ✅ UK-based company with local support
- ✅ Fast UK delivery
- ✅ Expert advice from spa specialists
- ✅ Auxiliary panel compatibility assistance
- ✅ Replacement model (TS-AX113) available
- ✅ Full warranty support
- ✅ Easy returns within 30 days
✨ Summary
The Balboa AX10-A3 Auxiliary Control Panel is a single-button remote control for the air blower, designed for larger hot tubs where users want convenient access to gentle bubble massage from a secondary location. Compatible with all GL Systems (GL2000, GL8000) and BP series spa packs. Featuring a compact 54 mm diameter circular design that fits a 32 mm hole, with 5-metre cable length and 12V operation via 6-pin connector (2 rows of 3). The overlay is included for ready installation. This product is discontinued – recommended replacement is TS-AX113 (overlay separate). Contact Parts4Tubs for availability or replacement options.



