Balboa · VS / GS seriesHeads-up

Ecn on a Balboa hot tub: economy mode

The tub is in Economy mode and only heats during its filter cycles. It is not a fault, but it is a common reason a tub seems slow to heat.

Also shown as: Ec, ECO, economy mode

Most likely causes

  1. 1Mode was changed on the topside panel, often by accidentmost likely
  2. 2Mode was set on purpose to save energycommon

What to try, in order

  1. Check your owner's manual for the mode button sequence. On many VS panels you press Temp and then Light to step through modes.
  2. Switch to Standard mode (St or Std) if you want the tub to hold temperature all day.
  3. Give the tub several hours to recover its set temperature.

Ecn questions

What does Ecn mean on my hot tub?

Economy mode. The heater only runs during filter cycles, so the water may sit below the set temperature between cycles.

Is Economy mode why my hot tub is not heating?

It is one of the most common reasons. Switch back to Standard mode and the heater will run whenever the water drops below the set point.

Related codes

Balboa -- · Temperature not yet knownBalboa CHEK PH · Maintenance reminderBalboa CLN FLTR · Filter reminderBalboa CNFG FAIL · Configuration errorBalboa dr · Heater may be dryBalboa dry · Heater is dryBalboa FLO · Low water flowBalboa GFCI FAIL · GFCI test failed

General guidance. Follow your manufacturer's instructions; anything inside the control box is work for a licensed professional. Updated October 5, 2026.