Balboa Control Panels Now Supplied Without Overlays
Balboa has begun supplying many of its replacement control panels without overlays, with overlays now sold separately. This affects a wide range of VL and TP series panels.
For trade customers, this means that ordering a panel alone will no longer include the faceplate overlay, which must be selected and purchased in addition. The overlay is essential, as it defines the button layout and labelling, matching the specific system configuration installed in the spa.
Why the Change?
Balboa appears to be standardising supply, with one panel model used across multiple spa setups. By supplying overlays separately, distributors and service engineers can select the correct version for the installation without excess stock of unused panel variants.
What This Means in Practice
When replacing a Balboa control panel:
- Check the spa system (GS, GL, EL, BP, etc.) and confirm which overlay matches the configuration (e.g. Jets 1, Jets 2, Blower, Aux).
- Order the control panel by its part number.
- Order the matching overlay separately, ensuring it reflects the number and type of active functions.
Common Issues to Avoid
- Ordering the wrong overlay may result in missing or mislabelled buttons for the customer’s setup.
- Panels will not ship with a default overlay, so assuming one is included will delay the job.
- Stock planning will need to include both panel units and a range of overlays to cover different spa models.
Summary
Balboa panels are increasingly supplied without overlays, and overlays must now be ordered separately to match the spa system configuration. Trade customers should ensure they cross-reference part numbers carefully and carry a suitable range of overlays in stock to avoid installation delays.
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Balboa Panel + Overlay Ordering Checklist
When replacing a Balboa control panel, confirm the following:
- System Type – Identify the spa control box (GS, GL, EL, BP, etc.).
- Panel Model – Match the correct Balboa panel part number.
- Overlay Layout – Select the overlay to match spa functions (e.g. Jets 1, Jets 2, Blower, Aux).
- Button Count – Confirm overlay has the same number of buttons as the spa requires.
- Voltage & Lighting – Check for 12 V light button if required.
- Stock Planning – Carry a range of common overlays alongside panels to avoid job delays.
Tip: Balboa panels are increasingly supplied without overlays — always order both together.
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Need a Balboa panel or overlay? Contact us today for trade pricing and availability.