💆 Balboa VL802D Topside Control Panel – Compatible with GS510DZ Series, Elite M7 & M3TUV
⭐ Premium large-format 8-button panel with Hi-Tec LCD display, 3 pump support & time functions – ideal for covering large cutouts
📋 Product Overview
The Balboa VL802D Topside Control Panel is the ultimate large-format control interface in the VL series, featuring 8 buttons, Hi-Tec LCD display, and support for up to 3 pumps – the maximum pump capacity available in any VL panel. With its impressive 265 mm × 117 mm design, this panel is ideal when trying to cover a large hole left by the original topside controller.
Featuring an advanced Hi-Tec LCD large face screen with component symbols displayed, time functions, and advanced error message display, the VL802D provides comprehensive spa monitoring and control. The dedicated TIME and MODE/PROG buttons enable access to clock functions and programmable settings for complete system management.
Operating at 12V, this panel supports up to 3 pumps plus 1 blower/auxiliary output, making it suitable for larger spa installations with multiple pump zones. Compatible with GS501DZ, GS510DZ, GS511DZ, GS523DZ, M3TUV, and Elite M7 systems, the VL802D comes complete with the overlay included for a ready-to-install solution.
⭐ Key Features
- ✅ Large Format Design – 265 mm × 117 mm for covering large cutouts
- ✅ 8-Button Interface – TIME, MODE/PROG, WARM, COOL, BLOWER, JETS 1, LIGHT, JETS 2
- ✅ 3 Pump Support – Maximum pump capacity in VL series
- ✅ Blower/Aux Support – Dedicated control for 1 blower or auxiliary device
- ✅ Hi-Tec LCD Display – Large face screen with component symbols
- ✅ Time Functions – Dedicated TIME button for clock and timer features
- ✅ MODE/PROG Button – Access programmable settings and system modes
- ✅ Advanced Error Display – Detailed error message display for diagnostics
- ✅ GS510DZ Series Compatible – Works with GS501DZ, GS510DZ, GS511DZ, GS523DZ
- ✅ Elite M7 & M3TUV Compatible – Works with premium control systems
- ✅ Telephone Cord Connection – Easy plug-and-play installation
- ✅ 12V Operation – Low voltage design for safe operation
- ✅ Overlay Included – Ready to install out of the box
🔧 Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Balboa |
| Model | VL802D |
| Model Series | VL |
| Product Type | Topside Panel |
| SKU | TS-VL802 |
| Compatible Systems | GS501DZ, GS510DZ, GS511DZ, GS523DZ, M3TUV, Elite M7 |
| Display Type | Hi-Tec LCD Large Face Screen |
| Display Features | Component Symbols, Time Functions, Advanced Error Messages |
| Number of Buttons | 8 |
| Button Configuration | TIME, MODE/PROG, WARM, COOL, BLOWER, JETS 1, LIGHT, JETS 2 |
| Maximum Pumps Supported | 3 |
| Blower/Auxiliary Outputs | 1 |
| Operating Voltage | 12V |
| Dimensions (L × H) | 265 mm × 117 mm |
| Connection Type | Telephone Cord Style |
| Overlay Included | ✅ Yes |
| Status | ✅ ACTIVE |
🖥️ Display & Controls
Button Configuration:
| Button | Function |
|---|---|
| TIME | Access clock and timer functions |
| MODE/PROG | Access programmable settings and system modes |
| WARM | Increase temperature setpoint |
| COOL | Decrease temperature setpoint |
| BLOWER | Activate/control air blower |
| JETS 1 | Activate/control jet pump 1 |
| LIGHT | Control spa lighting |
| JETS 2 | Activate/control jet pump 2 |
Display Features:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Display Type | Hi-Tec LCD Large Face Screen |
| Component Symbols | Visual indicators showing active components |
| Time Functions | Clock display and timer features |
| Error Messages | Advanced error message display for diagnostics |
| Temperature Display | Current/set water temperature |
Control Capabilities:
| Function | Availability |
|---|---|
| Pump 1 Control | ✅ (JETS 1 button) |
| Pump 2 Control | ✅ (JETS 2 button) |
| Pump 3 Control | ✅ (via system configuration) |
| Blower/Aux Control | ✅ (1 output) |
| Temperature Up | ✅ (WARM button) |
| Temperature Down | ✅ (COOL button) |
| Mode/Program Selection | ✅ |
| Light Control | ✅ |
| Time/Clock Functions | ✅ (TIME button) |
🔗 Compatibility Guide
This Topside Control is Compatible With:
| Control System | Type | Confirmed |
|---|---|---|
| GS501DZ | GS510DZ Series | ✅ |
| GS510DZ | GS510DZ Series | ✅ |
| GS511DZ | GS510DZ Series | ✅ |
| GS523DZ | GS510DZ Series | ✅ |
| M3TUV | M3 Series | ✅ |
| Elite M7 | Elite Series | ✅ |
VL Panel Suffix Compatibility Rule:
- VL panels ending in D → VS/GS systems ending in DZ
- VL panels ending in S → VS/GS systems ending in SZ
- Other VL panels → VS/GS systems ending in Z (not SZ or DZ)
NOT Compatible With:
- ❌ GS500, GS500Z, GS501, GS501Z (use VL400 series instead)
- ❌ GS501SZ, GS510S, GS510SZ, GS511SZ (use VL701S or VL700S instead – “S” suffix panels)
- ❌ Standard Duplex systems (different control system)
How to Verify Compatibility:
- 📍 Check your existing topside model
- 📍 Confirm your spa pack has a DZ suffix (GS501DZ, GS510DZ, GS511DZ, GS523DZ)
- 📍 Or confirm your system is M3TUV or Elite M7
- 📍 Verify the connector type matches (telephone cord style)
- 📍 Measure existing cutout to ensure 265 mm × 117 mm panel will fit
- 📍 Contact Parts4Tubs if you require confirmation
⚠️ Important: The VL802D is designed for DZ suffix systems and is ideal for covering large cutouts.
⚙️ Installation Guide
Before Installation:
- ⚠️ Disconnect power to spa at the isolator/breaker before any work
- ⚠️ Verify compatibility with your spa pack system (must be DZ suffix, M3TUV, or Elite M7)
- ⚠️ Measure existing cutout – VL802D requires 265 mm × 117 mm space
- ⚠️ Confirm connector type matches (telephone cord style)
Installation Steps:
- Turn off power at the isolator/breaker
- Measure existing panel cutout to confirm VL802D will fit
- Remove the existing topside panel from the mounting location
- Disconnect the telephone cord style cable from the spa pack
- Connect the new VL802D cable to the spa pack
- Mount the new topside panel in position (overlay is pre-fitted)
- Restore power and test all functions including pumps, blower, and time functions
Mounting Information:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Panel Dimensions | 265 mm × 117 mm |
| Profile | Large format (largest VL series panel) |
| Overlay | Included and fitted |
| Connection | Telephone cord style |
Ideal Application:
This topside is ideal when trying to cover a large hole left by the original topside controller.
⚠️ 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 VL802D connects to the topside port on compatible GS510DZ Series, M3TUV, and Elite M7 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 | VL802D shows advanced error messages – refer to spa pack manual |
| Buttons unresponsive | Overlay wear or panel fault | Check overlay condition |
| Incorrect readings | Temperature sensor issue | Check temperature sensor (separate component) |
| Display dim or flickering | Connection issue or power problem | Check and reseat telephone cord connector |
| Time display incorrect | Time not set | Use TIME button to set clock |
| Component symbols not showing | Normal operation or fault | Symbols only display when component is active |
| JETS 1 not working | Pump 1 issue | Check pump 1 connections and spa pack configuration |
| JETS 2 not working | Pump 2 issue | Check pump 2 connections and spa pack configuration |
| BLOWER not responding | Blower or wiring issue | Check blower connections |
Error Messages:
The VL802D features an advanced error message display that provides detailed diagnostic information. Error messages are determined by the spa pack. 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
Overlay Replacement:
If overlay becomes worn, faded, or buttons unresponsive, replacement overlays may be available separately.
🎯 Ideal Applications
| Application | Suitability |
|---|---|
| 🔄 Replacement for faulty VL802D topside | ✅ Ideal |
| 📐 Covering large cutouts from previous topside | ✅ Ideal |
| ⬆️ Upgrade to advanced control panel with 3 pump support | ✅ Ideal |
| 🎛️ Spas with GS501DZ control systems | ✅ Compatible |
| 🎛️ Spas with GS510DZ control systems | ✅ Compatible |
| 🎛️ Spas with GS511DZ control systems | ✅ Compatible |
| 🎛️ Spas with GS523DZ control systems | ✅ Compatible |
| 🎛️ Spas with M3TUV control systems | ✅ Compatible |
| 🎛️ Spas with Elite M7 control systems | ✅ Compatible |
| ♨️ Large spas with 3 pump systems | ✅ Ideal |
| 🏆 Premium spa installations | ✅ Ideal |
Common Replacement Scenarios:
- 💔 Cracked or damaged display
- 🔘 Unresponsive buttons
- 💧 Water damage to existing panel
- 👁️ Faded or dim display
- 🔌 Damaged telephone cord connector
- 📐 Need to cover large cutout from previous panel
- ⬆️ Upgrade to panel with time functions and 3 pump support
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if this topside is compatible with my spa?
A: The VL802D is designed for Balboa GS510DZ Series control systems (GS501DZ, GS510DZ, GS511DZ, GS523DZ), M3TUV, and Elite M7 systems. Check your spa pack model number – it should end in “DZ” or be M3TUV/Elite M7.
Q: What is the difference between VL802D and VL801D?
A: Both have 8 buttons with Hi-Tec LCD display and the same button configuration. The key differences are: VL802D is larger (265×117mm vs 187×83mm), supports 3 pumps (vs unspecified for VL801D), includes overlay (VL801D overlay sold separately), and VL802D has MODE/PROG button while VL801D has MODE button.
Q: What is the difference between VL802D and VL702S?
A: Both are the same size (265×117mm). VL802D has 8 buttons with Hi-Tec LCD display, TIME & MODE/PROG functions, supports 3 pumps, and is for DZ systems. VL702S has 7 buttons with Serial Standard display, supports 2 pumps, and is for SZ systems.
Q: Can this panel support 3 pumps?
A: Yes, the VL802D supports up to 3 pumps, which is the maximum pump capacity in the VL series.
Q: Is this good for covering a large cutout?
A: Yes, at 265 mm × 117 mm, the VL802D is specifically noted as ideal when trying to cover a large hole left by the original topside controller.
Q: What does the MODE/PROG button do?
A: The MODE/PROG button allows access to programmable settings and system modes on your spa. Refer to your spa pack manual for specific programmable features.
Q: What does the TIME button do?
A: The TIME button allows access to clock and timer functions on your spa. You can view/set the current time and program filtration cycles.
Q: Is the overlay included?
A: Yes, the VL802D comes complete with the overlay included.
Q: What is the connection type?
A: The VL802D uses a telephone cord style connector for easy plug-and-play installation.
Q: Is this product currently available?
A: Yes, the VL802D (TS-VL802) is an active product and currently available for order.
📥 Downloads & Resources
🏆 Why Choose the Balboa VL802D
- ✅ Largest VL Series Panel – 265 × 117 mm for covering large cutouts
- ✅ Maximum Pump Support – Supports up to 3 pumps (VL series maximum)
- ✅ 8 Buttons – Most comprehensive control in VL series
- ✅ Hi-Tec LCD Display – Large face screen with component symbols
- ✅ Time Functions – Dedicated TIME button for clock and timer features
- ✅ Programmable Settings – MODE/PROG button for advanced configuration
- ✅ Advanced Error Display – Detailed diagnostic messages
- ✅ Genuine Balboa Quality – Manufactured to Balboa’s exacting standards
- ✅ Wide Compatibility – GS510DZ Series, M3TUV, Elite M7
- ✅ Telephone Cord Connection – Reliable plug-and-play installation
- ✅ Overlay Included – Ready to install out of the box
- ✅ Currently Available – Active product in stock
🤝 Why Buy from Parts4Tubs
- ✅ UK-based company with local support
- ✅ Fast UK delivery
- ✅ Expert advice from spa specialists
- ✅ GS510DZ Series, M3TUV, and Elite M7 compatibility assistance
- ✅ Full warranty support
- ✅ Easy returns within 30 days
- ✅ Panel sizing guidance available
✨ Summary
The Balboa VL802D Topside Control Panel is the ultimate large-format control interface in the VL series, featuring 8 buttons and support for up to 3 pumps – the maximum pump capacity available. Measuring an impressive 265 mm × 117 mm, this panel is ideal for covering large cutouts left by previous controllers. With a Hi-Tec LCD large face screen displaying component symbols, time functions, and advanced error messages, plus TIME and MODE/PROG buttons for comprehensive control. Supporting 3 pumps and 1 blower/auxiliary output, this panel is compatible with GS501DZ, GS510DZ, GS511DZ, GS523DZ, M3TUV, and Elite M7 control systems. The telephone cord style connection ensures easy installation, and the overlay is included. 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.
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)



