How to Upgrade a Balboa ML700 Touchpad to a Balboa ML900 Topside Control Panel

How to Upgrade a Balboa ML700 Touchpad to a Balboa ML900 Topside Control Panel

Learn how to replace a Balboa ML700 spa touchpad with a Balboa ML900 control panel. Includes compatibility information, cut-out dimensions, installation tips, and troubleshooting advice.

Learn how to replace a Balboa ML700 spa touchpad with a Balboa ML900 control panel. Includes compatibility information, cut-out dimensions, installation tips, and troubleshooting advice.

Replacing a Balboa ML700 with a Balboa ML900 Touchpad

Important: The ML900 and ML700 are compatible only with certain Balboa control systems. Verify that your spa pack supports an ML900 before installation. The ML900 52797 uses an 8-pin Molex connection and is compatible with various GL Series, EL Series, and Mach 3 systems. 

Step 1: Turn Off Power

  • Switch off the spa at the main breaker.
  • Confirm that all power to the control pack is disconnected.

Step 2: Remove the Existing ML700

  • Access the rear of the topside control.
  • Disconnect the ML700 cable from the control box.
  • Carefully remove the topside panel from the spa shell.
  • If silicone in place, gently cut the seal with a plastic scraper.

Step 3: Check the Cut-Out Size

  • ML900 overall size: 295 x 79 mm. 
  • ML900 required cut-out: 256.5 x 57.2 mm. 

Tip: Most ML700 installations already have a similar cut-out, but check dimensions before fitting.

Step 4: Clean the Mounting Surface

  • Remove old adhesive and silicone residue.
  • Ensure the shell surface is clean and dry.

Step 5: Install the ML900

  • Remove the protective backing from the new gasket.
  • Feed the cable through the shell opening.
  • Position the ML900 evenly and press firmly into place.

Step 6: Connect the Cable

  • Route the cable to the control pack.
  • Plug the 8-pin Molex connector into the topside panel socket.
  • Ensure the connector is fully seated and locked. 

Step 7: Restore Power

  • Turn the breaker back on.
  • Allow the control system to boot up.

Step 8: Test All Functions

Check:

  • Temperature up/down
  • Jets 1, 2, 3 and 4
  • Light
  • Blower (if fitted)
  • Auxiliary functions
  • LCD display operation

Step 9: Program the Spa (If Required)

  • Some control packs may require setup verification after replacing the topside.
  • Confirm the correct pump and accessory configuration is displayed.

ML900 Button Layout

The ML900 features 12 buttons:

  • Time
  • Warm
  • Cool
  • Mode/Prog
  • Jets 1
  • Jets 2
  • Jets 3
  • Jets 4
  • Light
  • Fiber
  • Invert
  • Option

Official ML900 Cut-Out Template

ML900 Cutout Template (Actual Size PDF):

Installer Note

If replacing an ML700 (7-button panel) with an ML900 (12-button panel), the spa pack software must support the additional functions. Any buttons for pumps or accessories not installed on the spa will simply remain inactive. This is common when upgrading from ML700 to ML900 on compatible GL and EL series systems.

22 September, 2026 0 views