♨️ Balboa VL404 Topside Control Panel (Without Overlay) – Compatible with GS Series & Duplex Systems

🔆 Extra-large LED panel with 4-button control – Overlay sold separately

🎛️ Product Overview

The Balboa VL404 Topside Control Panel is an extra-large format control interface designed for Balboa GS Series and Duplex control systems. With its impressive 187 mm × 83 mm design and 4-button interface, this panel provides comprehensive spa control with the added benefit of a bright LED display for enhanced visibility in all lighting conditions.

Featuring a basic 3-digit LED display, the VL404 offers control of essential spa functions and operates at 12V. This panel supports single pump operation plus 1 blower/auxiliary output, and connects via a telephone cord style (RJ45) connector for easy installation.

The VL404 is compatible with GS Series control systems including GS500, GS500Z, GS501, GS501Z, and Duplex control systems. The current Balboa reference is G8244, which replaces previous VL404 topsides (51223, 54145). Please note: This version is supplied without overlay – the overlay must be purchased separately to complete your installation.

✨ Key Features

• ✅ GS Series Compatible – Works with GS500, GS500Z, GS501, and GS501Z control systems
• ✅ Duplex System Compatible – Also compatible with Duplex control systems
• ✅ LED Display – Bright 3-digit display for enhanced visibility
• ✅ Extra-Large Format Design – 187 mm × 83 mm dimensions for maximum visibility
• ✅ 4-Button Interface – Essential spa control functions
• ✅ Single Pump Support – Designed for 1 pump systems
• ✅ Blower/Aux Support – Controls 1 blower or auxiliary device
• ✅ RJ45 Connection – Telephone cord style connector for easy installation
• ✅ 12V Operation – Low voltage design for safe operation
• ✅ Current Production – Balboa reference G8244

⚠️ Overlay Not Included – Must be purchased separately

🔧 Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Manufacturer	Balboa
Model	VL404
Model Series	VL
Product Type	Topside Panel
SKU	TS-VL414
Balboa Reference	G8244
Replaces Part Numbers	51223, 54145
Compatible Systems	GS500, GS500Z, GS501, GS501Z, Duplex Control Systems
Display Type	LED
Display Format	Basic 3-Digit Style
Number of Buttons	4
Maximum Pumps Supported	1
Blower/Auxiliary Outputs	1
Operating Voltage	12V
Dimensions (L × H)	187 mm × 83 mm
Connection Type	Telephone Cord Style (RJ45)
Overlay Included	❌ No – Sold Separately

💡 Display & Controls

Display Features:

Feature	Description
Display Type	LED
Digit Format	Basic 3-Digit Style
Temperature Display	Current/set water temperature
Visibility	Enhanced brightness for various lighting conditions

Control Capabilities:

Function	Availability
Pump Control	✅ (1 pump)
Blower/Aux 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	Control System	✅

Part Number Cross-Reference:

Reference Type	Part Number
Current Balboa Reference	G8244
Previous Part Numbers	51223, 54145

How to Verify Compatibility:

• 📍 Check your existing topside model (VL404 or previous part numbers 51223, 54145)
• 📍 Confirm your spa pack is a compatible system (GS500, GS501, or Duplex)
• 📍 Verify the connector type matches (telephone cord style RJ45)
• 📍 Check your system is a 1 pump + blower configuration
• 📍 Contact Parts4Tubs if you require confirmation

⚠️ Important: The VL404 is designed for GS Series and Duplex systems with single pump and blower 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 RJ45)
• ⚠️ Ensure your system is a 1 pump + blower configuration
• ⚠️ Purchase overlay separately – this panel does not include an overlay

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 VL404 cable to the spa pack
5. Apply the overlay (purchased separately) to the panel
6. Mount the new topside panel in position
7. Restore power and test all functions

Mounting Information:

Specification	Detail
Panel Dimensions	187 mm × 83 mm
Profile	Extra-large format
Overlay	❌ Not included – purchase separately
Connection	Telephone cord style (RJ45)

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

⚡ Wiring & Connection

Connector Information:

Specification	Detail
Connector Type	Telephone Cord Style (RJ45)
Operating Voltage	12V

Connection Location:

The VL404 connects to the topside port on compatible GS Series and Duplex control systems via a telephone cord style (RJ45) 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 issue or panel fault	Check overlay alignment and condition
Incorrect readings	Temperature sensor issue	Check temperature sensor (separate component)
LED dim or flickering	Connection issue or power problem	Check and reseat RJ45 connector
Blower not responding	System configuration	Verify blower is configured in spa pack settings

Error Codes:

Error codes are determined by the spa pack, not the topside panel itself. The VL404 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 RJ45 connector

Overlay Replacement:

If your overlay becomes worn, faded, or buttons become unresponsive, replacement overlays are available separately. Contact Parts4Tubs for compatible overlay options.

🎯 Ideal Applications

Application	Suitability
🔄 Replacement for faulty VL404 topside	✅ Ideal
🔄 Replacement for 51223 or 54145 topsides	✅ Ideal
🔄 Upgrade from LCD to LED display	✅ 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 control systems	✅ Compatible
💨 Systems with blower/auxiliary output	✅ Compatible
♨️ Single pump + blower spa systems	✅ Compatible

Common Replacement Scenarios:

• 💔 Cracked or damaged display
• 🔘 Unresponsive buttons
• 💧 Water damage to existing panel
• 👁️ Faded or dim display
• 🔌 Damaged RJ45 connector
• ⬆️ Upgrade from LCD to LED display
• 🔄 Replacing older 51223 or 54145 topsides

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why doesn’t this include an overlay?

A: This is a “naked” topside panel without overlay, allowing you to use your existing overlay if it’s still in good condition, or purchase a specific overlay that matches your spa’s branding. Overlays are available separately from Parts4Tubs.

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

A: The VL404 is compatible with Balboa GS Series control systems (GS500, GS500Z, GS501, GS501Z) and Duplex control systems. Check your spa pack model number to confirm compatibility.

Q: What is the difference between the VL404 and VL402?

A: Both have the same dimensions (187×83mm), but the VL404 uses an LED display which is brighter and more visible, while the VL402 uses a traditional LCD display. The VL404 also has an RJ45 connection while the VL402 uses standard telephone cord style.

Q: What overlays are compatible with the VL404?

A: Contact Parts4Tubs for compatible overlay options for the VL404. The overlay you choose will determine the button labelling and appearance.

Q: What part numbers does this replace?

A: The VL404 (G8244) replaces previous VL404 topsides with part numbers 51223 and 54145.

Q: What is the connection type?

A: The VL404 uses a telephone cord style (RJ45) connector for easy plug-and-play installation.

Q: What functions can I control?

A: The VL404 has 4 buttons providing spa control functions. It supports 1 pump and 1 blower/auxiliary output. The specific button functions depend on the overlay used.

Q: What does the display show?

A: The VL404 features a basic 3-digit LED display showing water temperature with enhanced brightness for better visibility.

Q: What are the dimensions?

A: The VL404 measures 187 mm (length) × 83 mm (height), making it an extra-large format panel with excellent visibility.

Q: Why choose LED over LCD?

A: LED displays are typically brighter and easier to read in various lighting conditions, including direct sunlight and low-light environments. They also tend to have longer lifespan and better contrast.

🏆 Why Choose the Balboa VL404

• ✅ Genuine Balboa Quality – Manufactured to Balboa’s exacting standards
• ✅ LED Display – Brighter, more visible than traditional LCD
• ✅ Extra-Large Format Size – 187 mm × 83 mm for maximum visibility
• ✅ 4-Button Design – Essential spa control functions
• ✅ Blower Support – Dedicated blower/auxiliary control
• ✅ Wide Compatibility – Works with GS Series and Duplex systems
• ✅ RJ45 Connection – Reliable plug-and-play installation
• ✅ Current Production – Active product with Balboa reference G8244
• ✅ Flexible Overlay Options – Use existing overlay or purchase new

🤝 Why Buy from Parts4Tubs

• ✅ UK-based company with local support
• ✅ Fast UK delivery
• ✅ Expert advice from spa specialists
• ✅ GS Series and Duplex compatibility assistance
• ✅ Full warranty support
• ✅ Easy returns within 30 days
• ✅ Compatible overlays available separately
• ✅ Current stock of active products

✨ Summary

The Balboa VL404 Topside Control Panel is an extra-large format control interface designed for GS Series and Duplex spa systems. Measuring 187 mm × 83 mm with a bright 3-digit LED display, this panel provides 4-button control supporting 1 pump and 1 blower/auxiliary output. Compatible with GS500, GS500Z, GS501, GS501Z, and Duplex control systems. The current Balboa reference is G8244, replacing previous part numbers 51223 and 54145. Features telephone cord style (RJ45) connection for easy installation. Note: Overlay not included – must be purchased separately. Order from Parts4Tubs for fast UK delivery and expert support.