🛁 Balboa VL400 Topside Control Panel – Compatible with GS Series, Duplex & M1 Systems

🖥️ Large-format LCD panel with Light, Temp, Jets and Aux controls for versatile spa management

⚠️ DISCONTINUED BY BALBOA – Please use TS-VL410 when stock runs out.

🎛️ Product Overview

The Balboa VL400 Topside Control Panel is a large-format control interface designed for Balboa GS Series, Duplex, and M1 Series control systems. With its 193 mm × 59 mm design and 4-button interface, this panel provides comprehensive spa control with dedicated auxiliary functionality.

Featuring a basic 3-digit LCD display, the VL400 offers control of four key spa functions: Light, Temp, Jets, and Aux. Operating at 12V, this panel supports single pump operation plus 1 blower/auxiliary output, and connects via a telephone cord style connector for easy installation.

The VL400 is compatible with a wide range of systems including the Balboa Duplex range (such as the Duplex Value system), M1 series, and the GS Series (GS500, GS500Z, GS501, GS501Z). This makes it a versatile choice for various spa configurations requiring essential control functions with auxiliary output capability.

Please note: This product has been discontinued by Balboa. When current stock is depleted, please use the replacement model TS-VL410.

⭐ Key Features

• ✅ GS Series Compatible – Works with GS500, GS500Z, GS501, and GS501Z control systems
• ✅ Duplex Range Compatible – Works with Balboa Duplex range including Duplex Value system
• ✅ M1 Series Compatible – Also compatible with M1 series control systems
• ✅ Large-Format Design – 193 mm × 59 mm dimensions for clear visibility
• ✅ LCD Display – Basic 3-digit style for clear temperature readings
• ✅ 4-Button Interface – Light, Temp, Jets, and Aux controls
• ✅ Single Pump Support – Designed for 1 pump systems
• ✅ Auxiliary Output Support – Controls 1 blower or auxiliary device
• ✅ Telephone Cord Connection – Easy plug-and-play installation
• ✅ 12V Operation – Low voltage design for safe operation

🔧 Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Manufacturer	Balboa
Model	VL400
Model Series	VL
Product Type	Topside Panel
SKU	TS-VL400
Compatible Systems	GS500, GS500Z, GS501, GS501Z, Duplex Range, M1 Series
Display Type	LCD
Display Format	Basic 3-Digit Style
Number of Buttons	4
Button Configuration	Light, Temp, Jets, Aux
Maximum Pumps Supported	1
Blower/Auxiliary Outputs	1
Operating Voltage	12V
Dimensions (L × H)	193 mm × 59 mm
Connection Type	Telephone Cord Style
Status	⚠️ DISCONTINUED
Replacement Model	TS-VL410

💡 Display & Controls

Button Configuration:

Button	Function
Light	Control spa lighting
Temp	Adjust temperature setpoint
Jets	Activate/control jet pump
Aux	Activate/control auxiliary device

Display Features:

Feature	Description
Display Type	LCD
Digit Format	Basic 3-Digit Style
Temperature Display	Current/set water temperature

Control Capabilities:

Function	Availability
Pump Control	✅ (1 pump)
Auxiliary Control	✅ (1 output)
Temperature Adjustment	✅
Light Control	✅

🔗 Compatibility Guide

This Topside Control is Compatible With:

Control System	Type	Confirmed
GS500	GS Series	✅
GS500Z	GS Series	✅
GS501	GS Series	✅
GS501Z	GS Series	✅
Duplex Value	Duplex Range	✅
Duplex Range	Control System	✅
M1 Series	Control System	✅

How to Verify Compatibility:

• 📍 Check your existing topside model (VL400)
• 📍 Confirm your spa pack is a compatible system (GS500, GS501, Duplex, or M1)
• 📍 Verify the connector type matches (telephone cord style)
• 📍 Check your system is a 1 pump + auxiliary configuration
• 📍 Contact Parts4Tubs if you require confirmation

⚠️ Important: The VL400 is designed for GS Series, Duplex, and M1 systems with single pump and auxiliary configurations. Installing an incompatible topside will not work.

🛠️ Installation Guide

Before Installation:

• ⚠️ Disconnect power to spa at the isolator/breaker before any work
• ⚠️ Verify compatibility with your spa pack system
• ⚠️ Confirm connector type matches (telephone cord style)
• ⚠️ Ensure your system is a 1 pump + auxiliary configuration

Installation Steps:

1. Turn off power at the isolator/breaker
2. Remove the existing topside panel from the mounting location
3. Disconnect the telephone cord style cable from the spa pack
4. Connect the new VL400 cable to the spa pack
5. Mount the new topside panel in position
6. Restore power and test all functions

Mounting Information:

Specification	Detail
Panel Dimensions	193 mm × 59 mm
Profile	Large format
Connection	Telephone cord style

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

⚡ Wiring & Connection

Connector Information:

Specification	Detail
Connector Type	Telephone Cord Style
Operating Voltage	12V

Connection Location:

The VL400 connects to the topside port on compatible GS Series, Duplex, and M1 control systems via a telephone cord style connector.

⚠️ Never force the connector. 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 cable connector
Error codes displayed	Various system issues	Refer to spa pack manual for error meanings
Buttons unresponsive	Overlay wear or panel fault	Check overlay condition
Incorrect readings	Temperature sensor issue	Check temperature sensor (separate component)
LCD flickering	Connection issue	Check and reseat telephone cord connector
Aux not responding	System configuration	Verify auxiliary is configured in spa pack settings

Error Codes:

Error codes are determined by the spa pack, not the topside panel itself. The VL400 displays error information from your control system. Refer to your spa pack manual for specific error code meanings.

🧹 Maintenance & Care

Routine Care:

Task	Frequency
Wipe with soft damp cloth	Weekly
Check button response	Monthly
Inspect cable connection	Annually
Check overlay condition	Annually

DO NOT:

• ❌ Use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads
• ❌ Submerge the panel in water
• ❌ Use solvent-based or chemical cleaners
• ❌ Press buttons with sharp objects
• ❌ Pull or strain the telephone cord connector

🎯 Ideal Applications

Application	Suitability
🔄 Replacement for faulty VL400 topside	✅ Ideal
🎛️ Spas with GS500 control systems	✅ Compatible
🎛️ Spas with GS500Z control systems	✅ Compatible
🎛️ Spas with GS501 control systems	✅ Compatible
🎛️ Spas with GS501Z control systems	✅ Compatible
🎛️ Spas with Duplex Value systems	✅ Compatible
🎛️ Spas with Duplex range systems	✅ Compatible
🎛️ Spas with M1 series systems	✅ Compatible
♨️ Single pump + auxiliary spa systems	✅ Compatible

Common Replacement Scenarios:

• 💔 Cracked or damaged LCD display
• 🔘 Unresponsive buttons
• 💧 Water damage to existing panel
• 👁️ Faded or illegible display
• 🔌 Damaged telephone cord connector

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: This product is discontinued – what should I use instead?

A: When current stock of the TS-VL400 (VL400) is depleted, please use the replacement model TS-VL410. Contact Parts4Tubs for availability and compatibility confirmation.

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

A: The VL400 is compatible with Balboa GS Series control systems (GS500, GS500Z, GS501, GS501Z), the Duplex range (including Duplex Value system), and M1 series. Check your spa pack model number to confirm compatibility.

Q: What is the difference between the VL400 and VL260?

A: The VL400 is larger (193×59mm vs 178×54mm) and has a different button configuration (Light, Temp, Jets, Aux) compared to the VL260 (Blower, Jets, Temp, Light). The VL400 also has broader compatibility including M1 series and Duplex Value systems.

Q: What is the connection type?

A: The VL400 uses a telephone cord style connector for easy plug-and-play installation.

Q: What functions can I control?

A: The VL400 has 4 buttons providing control of Light, Temp, Jets, and Aux functions. It supports 1 pump and 1 blower/auxiliary output.

Q: What does the display show?

A: The VL400 features a basic 3-digit LCD display showing water temperature.

Q: What are the dimensions?

A: The VL400 measures 193 mm (length) × 59 mm (height), making it a large-format panel.

Q: I have a Duplex Value system – will this work?

A: Yes, the VL400 is specifically compatible with the Balboa Duplex range including the Duplex Value system.

Q: I have an M1 series spa pack – will this work?

A: Yes, the VL400 is compatible with M1 series control systems.

Q: Does this have auxiliary control?

A: Yes, the VL400 includes dedicated Aux control and supports 1 auxiliary output.

📥 Downloads & Resources

• VL series
• cutout template

🏆 Why Choose the Balboa VL400

• ✅ Genuine Balboa Quality – Manufactured to Balboa’s exacting standards
• ✅ Large Format Size – 193 mm × 59 mm for excellent visibility
• ✅ Full 4-Button Design – Light, Temp, Jets, Aux for complete control
• ✅ Auxiliary Support – Dedicated aux control for blower or other devices
• ✅ Clear LCD Display – Basic 3-digit style for easy temperature reading
• ✅ Wide Compatibility – Works with GS Series, Duplex range, and M1 series
• ✅ Telephone Cord Connection – Reliable plug-and-play installation

⚠️ Note: This product is discontinued. Order now while stock lasts, or consider the replacement model TS-VL410.

🤝 Why Buy from Parts4Tubs

• ✅ UK-based company with local support
• ✅ Fast UK delivery
• ✅ Expert advice from spa specialists
• ✅ GS Series, Duplex, and M1 compatibility assistance
• ✅ Full warranty support
• ✅ Easy returns within 30 days
• ✅ Guidance on replacement models for discontinued products

✨ Summary

The Balboa VL400 Topside Control Panel is a large-format control interface designed for GS Series, Duplex, and M1 Series spa systems. Measuring 193 mm × 59 mm with a basic 3-digit LCD display, this panel provides control of Light, Temp, Jets, and Aux functions, supporting 1 pump and 1 auxiliary output. Compatible with GS500, GS500Z, GS501, GS501Z, the Balboa Duplex range (including Duplex Value system), and M1 series. The telephone cord style connection ensures easy installation. Note: This product is discontinued by Balboa – please use TS-VL410 when stock runs out. 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.