🛁 Balboa ML700 Touch Panel – Premium 8-Button Hi-Tec LCD Control for GL2000 & GL8000 Systems

💫 The flagship ML series touch panel with Hi-Tec LCD display, TIME functions, and advanced error messaging – perfect for Costco Platinum II and Spaform Prestige spas

📋 Product Overview

The Balboa ML700 Touch Panel represents the pinnacle of ML series technology, combining an advanced Hi-Tec LCD display with touch-sensitive controls and comprehensive 8-button functionality. Measuring 248 mm × 79 mm, this premium panel delivers the most sophisticated user interface in the ML range, featuring a large face screen with component symbols, time functions, and advanced error message display.

Unlike the Serial Standard displays found on other ML models, the ML700’s Hi-Tec LCD provides enhanced visual information including component status symbols and programmable time functions via the dedicated TIME button. The MODE/PROG button enables advanced programming capabilities, giving users greater control over their spa’s operation.

The ML700 is designed specifically for GL2000 and GL8000 control systems and is commonly found in Costco Platinum II (2) and Spaform Prestige 30, 32, and 35 hot tubs. With dedicated buttons for TIME, MODE/PROG, WARM, COOL, LIGHT, BLOWER, JETS 1, and JETS 2, this panel provides comprehensive control for feature-rich spa installations. The overlay is included for a complete, ready-to-install solution.

⭐ Key Features

• ✅ Hi-Tec LCD Display – Large face screen with component symbols
• ✅ TIME Functions – Dedicated TIME button for clock and timer programming
• ✅ MODE/PROG Button – Advanced programming capabilities
• ✅ Advanced Error Display – Comprehensive error message information
• ✅ Touch Panel Technology – Modern touch-sensitive button interface
• ✅ 8-Button Interface – TIME, MODE/PROG, WARM, COOL, LIGHT, BLOWER, JETS 1, JETS 2
• ✅ Dual Pump Support – Control up to 2 pumps independently
• ✅ Dedicated Blower Control – Separate BLOWER button
• ✅ GL2000 & GL8000 Compatible – Works with GL series control systems
• ✅ Multi-Brand Compatible – Costco Platinum II, Spaform Prestige series
• ✅ 8-Pin Connection – Secure 2 rows of 4 pins connector
• ✅ Overlay Included – Ready to install out of the box

🔧 Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Manufacturer	Balboa
Model	ML700
Model Series	ML
Product Type	Touch Panel / Topside Panel
SKU	TS-ML700
Compatible Systems	GL2000, GL8000
Compatible Hot Tubs	Costco Platinum II (2), Spaform Prestige 30, 32, 35
Display Type	Hi-Tec LCD
Display Features	Large Face Screen, Component Symbols, Time Functions, Advanced Error Messages
Number of Buttons	8
Button Configuration	TIME, MODE/PROG, WARM, COOL, LIGHT, BLOWER, JETS 1, JETS 2
Button Type	Touch-Sensitive
Maximum Pumps Supported	2
Blower/Auxiliary Outputs	1
Operating Voltage	12V
Dimensions (L × H)	248 mm × 79 mm
Connection Type	8 Small Plastic Pins (2 Rows of 4)
Overlay Included	✅ Yes
Status	✅ ACTIVE

🖥️ Display & Controls

Button Configuration:

Button	Function
TIME	Clock display and timer programming
MODE/PROG	Operating mode selection and programming
WARM	Increase temperature setpoint
COOL	Decrease temperature setpoint
LIGHT	Control spa lighting
BLOWER	Control air blower
JETS 1	Activate/control jet pump 1
JETS 2	Activate/control jet pump 2

Hi-Tec LCD Display Features:

Feature	Description
Display Type	Hi-Tec LCD Large Face Screen
Component Symbols	Visual indicators for active components
Time Display	Clock and timer information
Temperature Display	Current/set water temperature
Mode Indicators	Operating mode status
Error Messages	Advanced diagnostic error display
Visibility	Premium large face for enhanced readability

Control Capabilities:

Function	Availability
Pump 1 Control	✅ (JETS 1 button)
Pump 2 Control	✅ (JETS 2 button)
Blower Control	✅ (BLOWER button)
Temperature Up	✅ (WARM button)
Temperature Down	✅ (COOL button)
Light Control	✅
Mode Selection	✅ (MODE/PROG button)
Programming	✅ (MODE/PROG button)
Time/Timer Functions	✅ (TIME button)

Hi-Tec LCD Advantage:

The ML700’s Hi-Tec LCD display provides significant advantages over Serial Standard displays:

• Component Symbols – Visual icons show which components are active
• Time Functions – Clock display and programmable timers
• Advanced Error Messages – More detailed diagnostic information
• Large Face Screen – Enhanced visibility and readability

🔗 Compatibility Guide

This Topside Control is Compatible With:

Control System	Type	Confirmed
GL2000	GL Series	✅
GL8000	GL Series	✅

Compatible Hot Tub Brands:

Brand	Model	Confirmed
Costco	Platinum II (2)	✅
Spaform	Prestige 30	✅
Spaform	Prestige 32	✅
Spaform	Prestige 35	✅

NOT Compatible With:

• ❌ GS500, GS501, GS510 series (use VL series panels instead)
• ❌ BP series control systems (use TP series panels instead)
• ❌ VS/GS systems with SZ or DZ suffixes (use VL700/VL800 series instead)

How to Verify Compatibility:

• 📍 Check your existing topside model (ML700)
• 📍 Confirm your spa pack is GL2000 or GL8000
• 📍 Verify the connector type matches (8-pin, 2 rows of 4)
• 📍 Contact Parts4Tubs if you require confirmation

⚠️ Important: The ML700 is designed specifically for GL series systems (GL2000, GL8000). It is NOT compatible with GS series systems – use VL series panels for GS systems.

🔄 ML700 vs ML551 Comparison

Specification	ML551	ML700
Buttons	8	8
Dimensions	187 × 83 mm	248 × 79 mm
Display Type	Serial Standard	Hi-Tec LCD
Component Symbols	❌	✅
TIME Button	❌	✅
MODE/PROG	MODE only	MODE/PROG
Time Functions	❌	✅
Advanced Errors	Basic	Advanced
Overlay	❌ Sold Separately	✅ Included

Choose ML700 when:

• You want the most advanced Hi-Tec LCD display
• You need TIME button for clock/timer functions
• You want programming capabilities (MODE/PROG)
• You have a Costco Platinum II or Spaform Prestige spa
• You prefer overlay included

Choose ML551 when:

• You need the most compact 8-button panel
• Serial Standard display is sufficient
• Space is the primary concern

⚙️ Installation Guide

Before Installation:

• ⚠️ Disconnect power to spa at the isolator/breaker before any work
• ⚠️ Verify compatibility with your spa pack system (must be GL2000 or GL8000)
• ⚠️ Confirm connector type matches (8-pin, 2 rows of 4)
• ⚠️ Verify panel dimensions suit your cutout (248 mm × 79 mm)

Installation Steps:

1. Turn off power at the isolator/breaker
2. Remove the existing topside panel from the mounting location
3. Disconnect the 8-pin connector from the spa pack
4. Connect the new ML700’s 8-pin connector to the spa pack
5. Mount the new topside panel in position (overlay is pre-fitted)
6. Restore power and test all functions
7. Set time using TIME button if required

Mounting Information:

Specification	Detail
Panel Dimensions	248 mm × 79 mm
Profile	Elongated premium format
Overlay	Included and fitted
Connection	8 small plastic pins (2 rows of 4)

⚠️ Professional installation recommended if you are unfamiliar with spa electronics.

⚡ Wiring & Connection

Connector Information:

Specification	Detail
Connector Type	8 Small Plastic Pins
Pin Configuration	2 Rows of 4 Pins
Operating Voltage	12V

Connection Location:

The ML700 connects to the topside port on GL2000 and GL8000 control systems via an 8-pin connector arranged in 2 rows of 4 pins.

⚠️ Never force the connector. Ensure correct alignment of the 8-pin connector before insertion. If it doesn’t fit, verify compatibility with your control system.

🔍 Troubleshooting

Common Issues:

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Blank display	No power or loose connection	Check power supply and reseat 8-pin connector
Error codes displayed	Various system issues	Use advanced error display for diagnosis
Touch buttons unresponsive	Panel fault or moisture	Check panel condition, ensure dry operation
Incorrect readings	Temperature sensor issue	Check temperature sensor (separate component)
Display dim or flickering	Connection issue or power problem	Check and reseat 8-pin connector
JETS 1 not working	Pump 1 issue	Check pump connections and spa pack configuration
JETS 2 not working	Pump 2 issue	Check pump 2 connections
BLOWER not responding	Blower device or wiring issue	Check blower connections
TIME not displaying	Panel or configuration issue	Check panel operation
Component symbols missing	Display or connection issue	Reseat connector and check panel

Advanced Error Display:

The ML700’s Hi-Tec LCD provides advanced error message display with more detailed diagnostic information than standard displays. Refer to your GL2000/GL8000 manual for specific error code meanings and troubleshooting steps.

🧹 Maintenance & Care

Routine Care:

Task	Frequency
Wipe with soft damp cloth	Weekly
Check touch button response (all 8)	Monthly
Inspect cable connection	Annually
Check overlay condition	Annually
Verify time accuracy	Periodically

DO NOT:

• ❌ Use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads
• ❌ Submerge the panel in water
• ❌ Use solvent-based or chemical cleaners
• ❌ Press touch buttons with sharp objects
• ❌ Force or bend the 8-pin connector
• ❌ Allow excessive moisture on touch surface

Overlay Replacement:

If overlay becomes worn, faded, or buttons unresponsive, replacement overlays may be available separately. Contact Parts4Tubs for options.

🎯 Ideal Applications

Application	Suitability
🔄 Replacement for faulty ML700 topside	✅ Ideal
🎛️ Spas with GL2000 control systems	✅ Compatible
🎛️ Spas with GL8000 control systems	✅ Compatible
♨️ Costco Platinum II (2) hot tubs	✅ Ideal
♨️ Spaform Prestige 30, 32, 35 spas	✅ Ideal
♨️ Dual pump spa systems	✅ Ideal
♨️ Spas requiring timer/programming	✅ Ideal
⭐ Premium spa installations	✅ Ideal

Common Replacement Scenarios:

• 💔 Cracked or damaged Hi-Tec LCD display
• 🔘 Unresponsive touch buttons
• 💧 Water damage to existing panel
• 👁️ Faded or dim display
• 🔌 Damaged 8-pin connector
• 🏷️ Worn or illegible overlay
• ⏰ Non-functional TIME display

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I know if this topside is compatible with my spa?

A: The ML700 is designed specifically for Balboa GL2000 and GL8000 control systems. It is commonly found in Costco Platinum II (2) and Spaform Prestige 30, 32, and 35 hot tubs. Check your spa pack model number to confirm compatibility.

Q: What is Hi-Tec LCD display?

A: Hi-Tec LCD is Balboa’s advanced display technology featuring a large face screen with component symbols (visual icons showing active components), time functions, and advanced error message display. It provides more information than standard Serial Standard displays.

Q: What does the TIME button do?

A: The TIME button allows you to view and set the clock, and potentially program timer functions depending on your spa pack configuration. This enables features like scheduled filtration cycles.

Q: What is the difference between MODE and MODE/PROG?

A: The MODE/PROG button on the ML700 combines mode selection with programming capabilities, allowing you to not only select operating modes but also access programming functions for advanced spa control.

Q: Is the overlay included?

A: Yes, the ML700 comes complete with the overlay included, unlike the ML551 which requires separate overlay purchase.

Q: I have a Costco Platinum II hot tub – is this the right panel?

A: Yes, the ML700 is specifically listed as compatible with Costco Platinum II (2) hot tubs. Verify your existing panel is an ML700 before ordering.

Q: I have a Spaform Prestige spa – is this compatible?

A: Yes, the ML700 is compatible with Spaform Prestige 30, 32, and 35 models.

Q: What is the connection type?

A: The ML700 uses an 8-pin connector with 2 rows of 4 small plastic pins – the same connector type as other ML series panels.

Q: What are the dimensions?

A: The ML700 measures 248 mm (length) × 79 mm (height).

🏆 Why Choose the Balboa ML700 Touch Panel

• ✅ Hi-Tec LCD Display – Most advanced display in ML series
• ✅ Component Symbols – Visual icons show active components
• ✅ TIME Functions – Dedicated clock and timer programming
• ✅ MODE/PROG Button – Advanced programming capabilities
• ✅ Advanced Error Messages – Detailed diagnostic information
• ✅ 8-Button Control – Full functionality with all dedicated buttons
• ✅ Touch-Sensitive Controls – Modern, responsive interface
• ✅ Multi-Brand Compatible – Costco Platinum II, Spaform Prestige
• ✅ Dual Pump Support – Control 2 jet pumps independently
• ✅ Overlay Included – Ready to install out of the box
• ✅ GL Series Compatible – Works with GL2000 and GL8000 systems
• ✅ Currently Available – Active product in stock

🤝 Why Buy from Parts4Tubs

• ✅ UK-based company with local support
• ✅ Fast UK delivery
• ✅ Expert advice from spa specialists
• ✅ GL2000 and GL8000 compatibility assistance
• ✅ Costco and Spaform expertise
• ✅ Full warranty support
• ✅ Easy returns within 30 days

✨ Summary

The Balboa ML700 Touch Panel is the flagship model in the ML series, featuring an advanced Hi-Tec LCD display with component symbols, time functions, and advanced error messaging for GL2000 and GL8000 systems. Measuring 248 mm × 79 mm with touch-sensitive controls, this premium panel provides comprehensive control via TIME, MODE/PROG, WARM, COOL, LIGHT, BLOWER, JETS 1, and JETS 2 buttons. Compatible with Costco Platinum II and Spaform Prestige 30, 32, 35 hot tubs, supporting 2 pumps plus dedicated blower control. The overlay is included for a ready-to-install solution. Order from Parts4Tubs for fast UK delivery and expert support.

Balboa BP Spa Packs

If you have a “BP” spa pack, you will find the name and model on the label, then you can use any of the “TP” range of topside controls, TP400, TP600 etc etc.

 

You can also use any of the “Spa Touch” graphical controllers on your Spa Pack. Spa Touch comes in versions 1-3 with 4 to be released very soon as well as the new “mini”.

 

The BP Spa Pack made things nice and easy so when you are replacing your topside control with one of these, it is straight forward enough.

 

Balboa VS & GS Spa Packs.

 

If you have an older hot tub that you are keeping alive with new parts, then the chances are you have an older spa pack in there too. This is where it gets a little more complicated in terms of compatibility.

 

Two of the popular models are the VS which stands for Value Series and was supplied to a lot of OEMs (manufacturers for hot tubs) to go into their tubs. Likewise, the GS (global series) was the same. Lots of different rebranded options, different names, but at the heart of things are these two packs.

 

What is key on these two models, is the combination of letters and numbers that make up the model number on the Spa Pack.

 

The VL range of topside controls was designed for both of these spa pack ranges; however, there are some “rules” we need to abide by in terms of compatibility.

 

VL Panels ending in D work with VS/GS systems ending in DZ

VL Panels ending in S work with VS/GS systems ending in SZ

The rest of the VL Panels work with VS/GS systems ending in Z (not SZ or DZ)

 

For example, a Spa Pack model VS501SZ would work nicely with a Topside that is model VL620S. However, that same topside control would not work with a spa pack model VS501Z. The connections are the same, it would plug in, but would not respond at all.

 

Another example, a Balboa GS500Z spa pack would work with the VL406T or the VL401 but would not work with the VL702S.

 

You get the patters. Topside ends in S or D, matches to Spa Pack ending in SZ (for S) or DZ (for D).

 

 

Balboa EL & GL Spa Packs

 

Before the birth of the BP range, the EL and GL Spa Packs did have some level of standardisation in terms of the topside controls.

 

All of the “ML” range of Balboa Topside Controls are designed to work with the EL and GL range of spa packs. They actually look very similar to the TP range, they just have a different type of connection to plug into the Spa Pack.