Installation
Installing Spapilot, step by step
Spapilot is a plug-in retrofit: the cable goes into an existing port on your Balboa or Gecko control box, the device connects to your WiFi, and the app takes it from there. About 30 minutes, one screwdriver, no electrician.
The seven steps
- Remove the side panel. Locate the equipment side of your spa and remove the side panel. Most panels pop off with clips or have a few thumb screws. Check your spa manual if you are unsure which panel to remove.
- Find the control box. Inside the compartment you will see the control box, a rectangular unit with cables running to it, labeled Balboa or Gecko. Unscrew the front panel of the control box to access the ports, usually four screws.
- Connect the Spapilot cable. Locate the auxiliary port inside the control box, usually labeled AUX or COM. Plug in the Spapilot cable, push straight in until it clicks, never at an angle. Then screw the control box panel back on.
- Place the Spapilot device. Place the device as close to your WiFi router as possible for the best signal. If the router is inside the house, place the device near the panel opening and check signal strength before closing up.
- Download the app. Search for Spapilot in the App Store or Google Play. The app is free, create your account with your email address.
- Run the setup flow. Open the app and tap Add new device. Select your control system type, enter your home WiFi password and name your spa. Use 2.4 GHz WiFi and stay close to the spa during setup.
- Put the panel back. Once the app confirms your spa is connected, put the side panel back on. The LED on the Spapilot device confirms it is online, and you control temperature and schedules from the app.
Prefer the illustrated version? The full manual with photos lives at zavepower.com/spapilot/installation.
Before you start
Common questions
- Do I need an electrician to install Spapilot?
- No. The installation is plug-in: the cable goes into an existing port on your Balboa or Gecko control box and the device is powered over USB. A screwdriver is the only tool you need.
- How long does the installation take?
- Most owners are done in about 30 minutes, including the app setup. The physical connection itself takes a few minutes.
- What WiFi does Spapilot need?
- A 2.4 GHz WiFi network with a signal strength of at least -70 dBm at the spa, ideally -60 dBm or stronger. Place the device as close to the router side of the cabinet as possible.
- Can I undo the installation?
- Yes. Unplug the Spapilot cable from the control box and the spa is exactly as it was before. Nothing is modified or replaced.
- Should the device sit inside or outside the cabinet?
- Inside. The cabinet protects it from weather and moisture. Mounting outside is not recommended.
Want it fitted for you?
A local dealer confirms your model, delivers Spapilot and handles the installation.