Balboa BP7?

[1lastcast]

I purchased a used BP7 spa pack to replace my old one. 4kw.

I didn't realize there are two sized packs. 4kw and 5.5kw

I have a 5.5kw heater now. I purchase the 4kw. Can I just swap out the heater element or are these completely different in design of the boards ect. I don't want to damage the unit installing a larger heater. I'm not worried about the tubs wiring as nothing is changing.

 

[ajw22]

Welcome to TFP.

Let's see what @swamprat69 thinks when he wanders by.

 

[JamesW]

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0610/4370/3865/files/EP6551-Balboa-BP7-Spa-Control-System-Installation-Operation-Instructions.pdf?

https://easyspaparts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/BP7_Owners_Manual-1.pdf

https://easyspaparts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/G6405_01_BP25P3BC_Tech_Sheet-1.pdf

Contact HydroQuip, Inc.

Hydro Quip
510A N. Sheridan St.
Corona, CA 92880
Phone 951 | 273.7575
Fax 800 | 332.7190
Email [email protected]

Balboa Water Group - The BP7

www.balboawater.com

Balboa Water Group - Contact Us

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[email protected]

 

[JamesW]

My spa has a Balboa 58104 heater. The heating element from the factory is listed as 4.0Kw 800. It appears on line that the 5.5Kw element is the same size.

Does anyone know if there is a problem with replacing the 4Kw element with the 5.5Kw element? I am sure I am wired sufficiently for the addnl amp drraw but I didn't want to damage the circuit board fo the spa The board seems to just direct the delivery of 220V

The wattage (amp draw specifically) of the heater, coupled with the draw of the pumps and breaker rating (less 10%), determine what can run at the same time. A 4kw heater is often used to offset high hp pumps or allow heater operation with both pumps on. So, if you have 2 5hp pumps pulling 16 amps on high one of them must be off to run a 5.5kw heater on a 60 amp circuit or you risk nuisance tripping and reduced lifespan of your breaker, though it may run it for a while. This is programmable on the board.
Another reason to choose a 4kw is lower required flow rate. So a smaller pump, or perhaps more dirty filter, can run the system without flow related errors.
The board can handle the 5.5kw, and it will fit in the housing exactly as the 4kw.

 

[RDspaguy]

Just use the 4kw. You likely will never notice the difference, and you don't want to remove the old element from one and put it in the new one anyhow, as it will likely be damaged in the process. If you want the 5.5kw, buy a new element. I'd spring the extra for the titanium one.