There are many different style of Upper Control Panels (also often called “Topsides”) that can install in different ways. That said, the following 12 tips will help you better understand how to install many of the common Upper Control Panels that you will find of a Hot Tub.

1. The most import thing is to turn off power at the GFCI before beginning this repair procedure. DO NOT “hot swap” the control panel (i.e. replacing the control panel while there is still power to the board. This can damage both the upper control panel and the circuit board. 

2. If you have one, slide a plastic spatula around the perimeter of the panel to break the silicone mounting seal, or the 3M tape that is used to adhere to the shell. *Note that some topside also have a few little screws holing the topside in place, underneath the overlay stickers. Peel off the overlay sticker to check for these screws. 

3. If the panel does not lift easily after using the spatula, try lifting in several places with large flathead screwdriver. A towel between the shell and screwdriver will help prevent dents and scratches. One the panel is free of it’s silicone or adhesive, lift the panel from its installation area.

4. With the power still turned off at the GFCI, locate and unplug the Upper Control connector from the PC Board. The location of the connector may vary from spa to spa.

5. Before fully installing the new panel, plug in the new Upper control Panel and carefully turn on the power again. The spa should begin its start-up cycle. If so, turn off the power again and unplug the new unit.

6. Now you can feed the cable from the currently installed upper control up through the spa and remove the old panel.

7. Using your spatula again, remove the old silicone around the panel trough. This installation area needs to be clean for the new panel to seal and prevent dripping into the lower control area.

8. Feed the new connector through the installation hole. (Some controls have a protective cap over the connector. Put it back on now so the connector is not damaged as it travels through the channel). – If the connector does not easily slide through the hole, feed a bent hanger up from the bottom and hook the connector from above, slowly pulling it through.

9. Remove the paper liner from the back of the new Upper Control Panel if there is any (that protects the adhesive strip) and then apply a bead of silicone if needed (not always required with good 3m or screws securing the panel)

10. Press the new panel in place and re-connect the cable to the PC Board. Press the panel firmly in place to create a new seal. Wipe any excess silicone away with a clean cloth.

11. Turn the power on at the GFCI and be sure the start-up cycle begins again. Replace the electrical can and door panels.

12. Place a short 2 x 4” piece of wood between the spa cover and shell near the newly installed Upper Control Panel, or use something to press down on the panel. Leave it there for about 24 hours. This will allow the silicone seal to cure quicker without losing too much heat from your spa.

For any other questions, please reach out to techhelp@easyspaparts.com