Topside controller problem

[mgallimore]

I have a 2010 Beacomber hot tub model 321, has worked perfectly. NOw the spa light is flashing on and off with a clicking noise and the buttons on the controller work randomly.
Before i replace the topside controller i would like to be sure that is the only issue.
I have unplugged the controller and restarted the spa and restarted the hot tub several times. It goes into Pr mode but takes a very long time to start up.
There seems to be no heat and it is stuck in Ec mode as it was before controller fritzed.
I have unplugged the spa light but the clicking noise continues.
The light button itself now changes the modes etc but it seems to stay in Ec mode.
I thought i read somewhere that if you disconnect the topside controller and restart it goes into some basic mode with heat and circulation is that the case?
Basically I would like to be sure the controller is the only issue.
Thanks

 

[RDspaguy]

thought i read somewhere that if you disconnect the topside controller and restart it goes into some basic mode with heat and circulation is that the case?

Depends on the system. Pics of the equipment area, circuit board, and wiring diagram would be helpful.
I'm assuming it's a balboa, in which case the topside is just buttons and a display and the spa will run without it, you just obviously can't press any buttons or read the display since it's unplugged.
Delayed Pr cycles usually indicate changing sensor readings or voltage issues, but may result from a configuration issue.
Strange button behavior can result from a short in the control or wire (wet plug for example) or a changed configuration.
It's likely a bad controller, but it should run filter/heat without it.

 

[mgallimore]

Thanks for your reply.
I have disconnected the topside controller and it is now running as before. ( of course no controls ) but it is still in Economy mode and heats to 101degrees just as it was when controller died.
This will allow me to use the tub as is and take my time sourcing a new controller, too cold this time of year . I assume when I remove it there will be a serial number or part number to match it up to a Balboa replacement?

 

[RDspaguy]

will be a serial number or part number

Yeah, maybe. It's a sticker, so...
Balboa only has a few controller designs.