⚡ Balboa GS100 Compact Spa Control System | 2.0kW | Single-Pump Simplicity

Ultra-Compact Global Series Control for Entry-Level Spas — Simple, Reliable, Effective

📋 Product Overview

The Balboa GS100 is an ultra-compact spa control system from Balboa’s entry-level Global Series, designed for smaller hot tubs and simple spa configurations. With a 2.0kW heater output rating and support for a single dual-speed pump (serving as both massage and circulation), the GS100 delivers essential spa control in an incredibly small package.

Measuring just 190 × 137 × 60 mm, the GS100 fits easily into tight equipment compartments, making it ideal for compact spas, retrofit projects, and installations where space is at a premium. Compatible with Balboa VL series topside panels, the GS100 provides reliable, straightforward control without unnecessary complexity.

Operating on 230V, 50Hz supply, the GS100 includes ozone integration and 12V lighting output — everything you need for a complete small spa system.

✨ Key Features at a Glance

Feature	What It Does	Why It Matters
🌡️ 2.0kW Heater Rating	Heater output capacity	Suitable for smaller spa volumes
💧 Single Dual-Speed Pump	One pump for massage AND circulation	Simple, efficient operation
📦 Ultra-Compact Design	190 × 137 × 60 mm footprint	Fits anywhere
🫧 Ozone Ready	Integrated ozone output	Cleaner water
💡 12V Lighting	Standard 12V light output	Safe, effective spa lighting
🖥️ VL Panel Compatible	VL200, VL240, VL260, VL400 series	Simple, intuitive control
⚡ 230V Operation	Standard UK power supply	Easy installation

🎯 Perfect For

Application	Suitability	Why
🛁 Small Hot Tubs	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Single pump handles everything
📦 Compact Spas	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Ultra-small footprint
🏠 2-4 Person Spas	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	2.0kW heater suits smaller volumes
🔧 Retrofit Projects	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Easy to fit in tight spaces
💷 Budget Installations	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Entry-level pricing
🌱 Simple Spa Needs	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	No unnecessary complexity

🔧 Technical Specifications

Core System

Component	Specification	Details
Heater Output Rating	2.0kW	Heater tube NOT included
Pump 1	Dual-speed	Massage AND circulation
Ozone Output	✅ Supported	Sanitation ready
Light Output	12V	Standard spa lighting

Electrical Specifications

Specification	Value
Power Supply	230V
Frequency	50Hz
Heater Rating	2.0kW
Light Output	12V

⚠️ Important: The heater tube is NOT included. A compatible 2.0kW heater element must be purchased separately.

📐 Dimensions & Footprint

Measurement	Value	Notes
Length	190 mm	Box only
Height	137 mm	Box only
Width	60 mm	Ultra-slim profile

🔗 Topside Panel Compatibility

The GS100 is compatible with Balboa VL series topside panels — simple, reliable control interfaces designed for entry-level systems.

Compatible VL Panels

Panel Model	Compatible	Features
VL200	✅ Yes	Basic 2-button control
VL240	✅ Yes	4-button with temp display
VL260	✅ Yes	Enhanced display
VL401	✅ Yes	4-button layout
VL402	✅ Yes	4-button layout
VL403	✅ Yes	4-button layout
VL404	✅ Yes	4-button layout

VL Series Benefits

• Simple Operation — Intuitive button controls
• Reliable — Proven technology
• Cost-Effective — Entry-level pricing
• Compact — Small topside footprint

⚠️ Note: TP, SpaTouch, and ML series panels are NOT compatible with the GS100.

⚙️ Pump Configuration

The GS100 uses a single dual-speed pump that serves both massage and circulation functions.

How It Works

Speed	Function	Operation
Low Speed	Circulation	Continuous filtration and heating
High Speed	Massage	Powerful jet action

Single Pump Simplicity

Unlike larger systems with multiple dedicated pumps, the GS100’s dual-speed pump handles everything:

Function	Traditional Multi-Pump	GS100 Single Pump
Circulation	Separate circ pump	✅ Low speed
Massage jets	Separate jet pump	✅ High speed
Heating	Via circ pump	✅ Via pump
Component count	Multiple pumps	✅ One pump

💡 Efficiency: Fewer components mean less to maintain, lower running costs, and simpler troubleshooting.

🫧 Ozone System Integration

Built-in ozone output connects your spa’s ozonator for enhanced water sanitation.

Ozone Feature	Specification
Output	✅ Supported
Connection	Standard ozonator hookup

💡 Lighting Control

Integrated 12V lighting output powers your spa light directly from the GS100.

Light Specification	Value
Voltage Output	12V
Type	Standard spa lighting

📦 What’s Included

Item	Included
GS100 Control Box	✅ Yes
Heater Tube	❌ No (sold separately)
Topside Panel	❌ No (sold separately)

Quantity: Sold individually

⚠️ Required Separately: You will need to purchase a compatible 2.0kW heater tube and VL series topside panel to complete your system.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

System & Compatibility

Q: Is a heater included? A: No — the GS100 has a 2.0kW heater output rating, but the heater tube is NOT included. You’ll need to purchase a compatible heater element separately.

Q: Which topside panels work with the GS100? A: The GS100 is compatible with Balboa VL series panels including VL200, VL240, VL260, VL401, VL402, VL403, and VL404.

Q: Will TP or SpaTouch panels work? A: No — the GS100 only works with VL series topsides.

Q: Is this suitable for a large hot tub? A: The GS100 is designed for smaller spas (typically 2-4 person) with a single pump. Larger spas with multiple pumps require a BP series control box.

Pump Configuration

Q: How many pumps does this control? A: One dual-speed pump that serves as both massage and circulation pump.

Q: Can I add a second pump? A: No — the GS100 only supports a single pump. For multi-pump systems, consider a BP200UX or larger control box.

Q: Is a circulation pump needed? A: No — the dual-speed pump runs on low speed for circulation, eliminating the need for a separate circ pump.

Electrical

Q: What power supply is required? A: 230V, 50Hz — standard UK mains supply.

Q: What heater output does this support? A: 2.0kW heater output rating.

Size & Installation

Q: What are the dimensions? A: 190 mm (L) × 137 mm (H) × 60 mm (W) — ultra-compact, box only.

Q: Why is this so much smaller than BP packs? A: The GS100 is designed for simple single-pump systems without the circuitry needed for multiple pumps, blowers, or advanced features.

📥 Documentation & Downloads

📄 GS100 Technical Data Sheet — Complete specifications, wiring diagrams, and technical reference

🏆 Why Choose the Balboa GS100?

• ✅ Ultra-Compact — 190 × 137 × 60 mm fits anywhere
• ✅ Single Pump Simplicity — One dual-speed pump does it all
• ✅ 2.0kW Heater Rating — Suitable for smaller spas
• ✅ Ozone Ready — Cleaner water with less chemicals
• ✅ 12V Lighting — Safe, effective spa lighting
• ✅ VL Panel Compatibility — Simple, reliable control
• ✅ Entry-Level Pricing — Cost-effective solution
• ✅ Fewer Components — Less to maintain or replace
• ✅ Balboa Quality — Industry-leading reliability
• ✅ Easy Installation — Compact size simplifies fitting

🤝 Why Buy From Parts4Tubs?

✅	What You Get
🇬🇧	UK-Based Company — Local support, local expertise
🚚	Fast UK Delivery — Get your parts quickly
💬	Expert Advice — Spa specialists ready to assist
💷	Competitive Pricing — Excellent value on genuine parts
🛡️	Full Warranty — Complete manufacturer backing
↩️	Easy Returns — 30-day hassle-free returns
🔧	Technical Support — Expert help when you need it
🔗	Compatible Accessories — Heaters, topsides, and more

✨ Summary

The Balboa GS100 is an ultra-compact entry-level spa control system from Balboa’s Global Series, designed for smaller hot tubs requiring simple, reliable control. With a 2.0kW heater output rating (heater tube sold separately), support for a single dual-speed pump (handling both massage and circulation), ozone integration, and 12V lighting output, the GS100 delivers essential spa control in an incredibly small 190 × 137 × 60 mm package.

Compatible with Balboa VL series topside panels (VL200, VL240, VL260, VL401-404) and operating on 230V, 50Hz supply, the GS100 is perfect for compact spas, 2-4 person hot tubs, retrofit projects, and budget-conscious installations where simplicity and space efficiency are priorities. Fewer components mean less maintenance, lower costs, and straightforward operation — everything a small spa needs, nothing it doesn’t.

 

Hot Tub Wiring – Configuring a Balboa BP7 Spa Control 4.0kW Spa Pack

If you are using a basic setup, and by basic I mean a regular dual speed hot tub pump with a single speed blower, out of the box, your Balboa pack is likely to work without any additional configuration. However, if you are not using a separate circulation pump, the chances are you will need to “configure” the pack using the details below.

On the underside of the Spa Pack covers, you will see a circuit diagram that looks something like this.

Firstly, you need to work through the setup table at the bottom on the left hand side and work out which setup number you need. For example, a 2 speed pump and a single speed blower will need setup #12.

Next, you need to change the DIP switch settings to match your setup. Once you have the right combination of DIP switches, using the topside control you should do the following to change the pack’s setup mode to #12.

To go into the low levels follow the following steps please.

1. Turn tub off.
2. DIP switch 1 move to ON.
3. Turn tub on
4. On the top side control, Press “WARM” twice
5. Press “LIGHT”
6. Press “WARM”
7. Then use “WARM” to move down to the low levels until you get on the set up number you need.
8. Turn off tub
9. DIP switch one back to OFF
10. Turn on tub

Getting the right setup and config is important for the pack to function correctly and the buttons on the top side to do what you expect them to.

 

Balboa DIP Switches Explained

Most of the Balboa Spa Packs have a set of DIP switches that can seem a little confusing in the setup. In the most basic form, you are telling the Spa Pack how many pumps or blowers you have connected and how many it should allow to run before it turns off the heater (or let them all run at once). The reason for this is if you are limiting the amount of current the pack can draw. You are also telling the pack wither you need additional cool down times if you are using an gas/propane/ASHP additional heater. This to stop the kettling effect you can get in the heaters.

Check the circuit diagram that is on the inside of your Balboa pack and do not just copy the settings I explain below as they may be in a different order. The “logic” behind them is the same so just check what each of the DIP switches says it does.

Fixed-fuction DIP Switches 

A1 Test Mode (normally Off). 

A2 In “ON” position, add one high-speed pump (or blower) with Heater. (If you have 1 pump and NO blower use this)

A3 In “ON” position, add two high-speed pumps (or 1 HS Pump and Blower) with Heater. (If you have a pump and a blower use this)

A4 In “ON” position, add four high-speed pumps (or 3 HS Pumps and Blower) with Heater. (If you have two or three pumps and a blower use this)

You should only enable one of the A2, A3 or A4. You can use them in combinations, but it is easier just to use one.

A5 In “ON” position, enables Special Amperage Rule B.  In “OFF” position, enables Special Amperage Rule A. 

Special Amperage Rule A No Limitation (if you are not sure, set it to this. Worst case, your electric will trip if you don’t have enough current available)

Special Amperage Rule B 2 High Speed Pump Maximum, in Setups 1 – 9 1 High Speed Pump Maximum, and also Blower turns off with 1 High Speed Pump, in Setups 10 – 18 (avoid this if you can)

A6 Persistent memory reset (Used when the spa is powering up to restore factory settings as determined by software configuration). 

A2, A3, and A4 work in combination to determine the number of high-speed devices and blowers that can run before the heat is disabled. i.e. A2 and A3 in the ON position and A4 in the OFF position will allow the heater to operate with up to 3 high‑speed pumps (or two HS Pumps and Blower) running at the same time. Heat is disabled when the fourth high-speed pump or blower is turned on. 

Note: A2/A3/A4 all off = No heat with any high-speed pump or blower. 

Assignable DIP Switches 

A7 In “ON” position, enables a 5-minute cooldown for some gas heaters (Cooling Time B). In “OFF” position, enables a 1-minute cooldown for electric heaters (Cooling Time A). 

 

Who are Balboa Water Group?

Balboa Water Group is a prominent manufacturer and supplier of innovative spa and hot tub components. With a rich history spanning several decades, Balboa Water Group has established itself as a leading brand in the industry, known for its cutting-edge technology, quality craftsmanship, and exceptional customer service.

Balboa Water Group specializes in designing and manufacturing spa control systems, which serve as the brains behind the operation of hot tubs and spas. These control systems include a control panel, circuit board, and other components that regulate various functions, such as temperature control, water flow, jet activation, and lighting.

One of the key strengths of Balboa Water Group is their dedication to innovation. They continuously strive to develop new and advanced technologies that enhance the spa experience for users. From user-friendly interfaces and touchscreens to wireless connectivity and smartphone apps, Balboa control systems offer convenient and intuitive control over every aspect of the spa.

Balboa Water Group also places a strong emphasis on safety and energy efficiency. Their control systems often feature built-in safety mechanisms, such as high-limit sensors and automatic shutdowns, to protect users from potential hazards. Additionally, they incorporate energy-saving features that optimize power consumption, helping to reduce operating costs and environmental impact.

In addition to control systems, Balboa Water Group offers a comprehensive range of spa components and accessories. These include pumps, heaters, filters, jets, valves, and more. Their products are known for their durability, reliability, and compatibility with various hot tub models and brands.

Customer satisfaction is a top priority for Balboa Water Group. They provide excellent technical support, troubleshooting assistance, and product documentation to help spa owners and industry professionals make the most of their products. Balboa also collaborates closely with spa manufacturers and distributors worldwide, ensuring that their components are widely available and supported.

Balboa Water Group's commitment to quality and innovation has earned them a stellar reputation within the spa industry. Whether you are a hot tub owner, a spa designer, or a service professional, choosing Balboa products can provide you with the confidence and reliability you need to create a superior spa experience.

Overall, Balboa Water Group is a trusted and respected name in the spa industry, known for its technologically advanced spa components, commitment to customer satisfaction, and ongoing pursuit of innovation. Their products and solutions continue to elevate the spa experience for users around the world.