Best_Spa_Pumps

The pump is one of the key parts of your hot tub, because it enables the water to keep moving through the system. Without it functioning properly, the water stays still. Pumps also power the jets which are a big part of your relaxing experience.

However, they require check-ups and small maintenance to ensure they’re working properly. Sometimes the pump will start causing problems or stop working altogether, and in many cases it’s more cost effective to buy a new one than to get the old one replaced.

We selected the best hot tub pumps for you, so you can choose a quality product. However, keep in mind that different types of pumps exist, and not every single one will fit your spa. This is why you need to learn about certain features, which we are going to break down in the buying guide. This way you can get the best spa pump for your particular spa, which will be reliable for a long time.

1

OUR TOP PICK

HydroMaster Hot Tub 3hp

HydroMaster Hot Tub 3hp


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Summary

This is a premium quality pump from HydroMaster. It’s a 2 speed pump with 3 horsepower. It’s very efficient, with 210 GPM maximum flow. The voltage needed is 240V. It uses 10A of power on high speed, and 3.5A on low. The intake and side discharge have the same measurement – 2” which is going to be a good fit on most hot tubs. Thread outside diameter is 3”.

It’s a 56 frame pump which is very easy to install. It allows you to rotate the ports to fit the pump properly. This is an excellent replacement for Waterway or Aqua-Flo products. An additional plus is that the pump has self-priming function, making it easier for you to run it. It’s a very reliable and durable product which comes with a 1-year warranty.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Two-speed 210 GPM pump
  • Great replacement pump
  • Solid build quality
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2

EDITORS CHOICE

Gecko Alliance 1.5hp 2-Speed

Gecko Alliance 1.5hp 2-Speed


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Summary

The Flo-Master is a great pump which is available in four variations, from 1.5 to 3 horsepower. Right now, we’re talking about the smallest 1.5hp pump. This power is true and tested, so you can rely on it to run like it should. It’s a 2-speed pump which will give you 140GPM flow when in high speed. It comes with a standard 48 frame, making the installation go without problems on a really large number of spas.

The fittings (both intake and discharge) are standard in size – they have a 2” diameter, while the measurement of the outside thread is 3 1/16”. Running is very quiet, so it won’t be a distraction while you’re relaxing. It requires 115V to run, and compared to many alternatives it’s very cost efficient. It’s a very good replacement pump, which runs almost silent, and fits like the original factory pump you got with your tub.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • 48 frame 2-speed pump
  • Very quiet
  • Power efficient
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3

BEST VALUE

Laing Circulation Pump E5 – 74427

Laing Circulation Pump E5 - 74427


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Summary

Here we have an excellent circulation pump which can be installed as a replacement for Watkins hot tubs – Hot Spring, Tiger River and Caldera. What separates it from most is that it has universal voltage, it can be installed on both 120 and 240V. This hot tub circ pump has 40W of power, which transfers to about 1/20 hp. Don’t be put off by this, because the pump is reliable and creates good circulation. It’s very easy to install, and runs very quietly. Hose connections are 3/4 inches in diameter.

What’s useful is that you can mount it vertically or horizontally which makes it easier to fit. It comes with a 48” cord, and also has a run-dry thermal shutoff function which prevents it from overheating and damage. The manufacturer gives you a 1-year warranty and claims that this pump will be at least equal if not superior to the OEM pump you got with your tub. It’s truly an excellent replacement for SilentFlo 5000 series pumps.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Universal voltage
  • Budget friendly
  • Mounted horizontally or vertically
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4

Waterway Side Discharge 56-Frame 2″ 4.0Hp 230V

Waterway Side Discharge 56-Frame 2


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Summary

The Waterway Executive pump is a reliable and powerful product. It has 4 horsepower which ensure great water flow through the system. Maximum flow output is 182 GPM. It’s a 2-speed pump, so it’s great for both circulating the water as well as powering the jets. You’ll get a larger pump with a 56 frame. These Waterway spa pumps are a popular choice as the OEM pumps in many hot tubs. In case you have it in yours, this is an easy choice because it’s exactly the same.

It uses 230V and the amp rating is 12A. The discharge is located on the side, so pay attention if you want to fit it to a different hot tub. Intake and discharge fittings are both 2 inches in diameter. The number on this pump should be the same on the label of your old pump. If that’s not the case, please be sure to compare the features so you’ll know it will fit (instead of having to return it to the store).

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Four horsepower
  • Renowned manufacturer
  • Very good flow
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5

XtremepowerUS 1.5hp Inground Swimming Pool

XtremepowerUS 1.5hp Inground Swimming Pool


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Summary

Here we have something a bit different – it’s an inground pump. However, it can also be installed and work above ground, as long as you protect it properly. This is a versatile pump which can be used for both hot tubs and swimming pools. This hot tub water pump motor produces 1.5hp, which is more than enough to create excellent circulation.

It’s a single speed motor, but unlike many of this type it can create a very good flow of 84 GPM. It’s versatile when it comes to voltage, and can be used on both 115 and 230V. Also, it has a capacitor start. The fittings measure 1 ½ inch in diameter, so be sure to take that into consideration. You’ll get a pump which performs really well, and with a very good price too.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Universal voltage
  • Inground pump
  • Single speed
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6

Gecko Aqua-Flo Circ-Master

Gecko Aqua-Flo Circ-Master


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Summary

This is a dedicated circulation pump for your hot tub. Because of this it has only a single speed, but it’s able to run for a very long time. This jacuzzi pump has 1/15 hp, and according to Gecko, the highest flow compared to any other circulation pump. Thanks to this, the energy efficiency if lifted to a higher level, because less power is spent on constantly reheating the water.

You need to connect this pump to 115V for it to run. Fitting size is standard for a smaller pump, and it has 1.5-inch fittings on both intake and discharge. Thread size is 2 3/8 inches. If you choose this pump, you’ll be getting a product with fantastic energy efficiency while being able to move a lot of water.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • 1.5 inch fittings
  • Single speed
  • Excellent circulation
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7

Waterway Plastics Executive 56 Frame 5 hp, 230-volt

Waterway Plastics Executive 56 Frame 5 hp, 230-volt


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Summary

This Executive pump is easily one of the best hot tub pumps on the market. It has 5 horsepower, which help create a flow of 220 GPM. This is an exceptional number which is going to make you enjoy your jets even more. It’s certainly worth your money, even though it costs a bit more compared to other products.

You get a 2-speed pump and it’s pretty efficient considering the power. The amperage is 16.4A when setting on high, but only 4.8 amps when set on low speed for circulation purposes. It needs to be connected to a 230V power outlet. The installation is pretty straightforward, and additional help is the highly versatile wet end which can be rotated every 90 degrees.

It’s a 56 frame pump, so keep that in mind when buying. Intake and discharge are the same dimensions as on other similarly sized pumps, measuring 2 inches in diameter. As with the first Waterway product we reviewed, it has a number on the label so you can compare and see if you’re getting the exact same replacement.

This top-rated hot tub pump is an excellent choice in other situations too, as long as it fits. You’ll get a better performing product, which is at the same time more cost-effective than repairing the old one.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • 5 horsepower
  • Quality shaft seals
  • Very high flow – 220 GPM
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8

HydroMaster 1.5hp Hot Tub LX Motor

HydroMaster 1.5hp Hot Tub LX Motor


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Summary

Second product from HydroMaster on our list, this one is also made from quality materials and designed to last for a long time. Compared to the first one, this is a smaller version. It will fit your tub if you need a 48 frame pump. The motor produces 1.5 horsepower, and you can choose between two speeds. The lower speed amperage is 3.8A, while the higher speed amperage 13.8A while creating an excellent flow of 155 GPM.

You need to connect this pump to a 120V outlet. Even though the frame is smaller, fittings are two inches. The discharge port is located on the side. You won’t regret buying this one, since many users say it works better than their old pump.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Two speeds, 155 GPM
  • Power efficient
  • Great build quality
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9

Waterway Plastics Executive 56 Frame 4 hp

Waterway Plastics Executive 56 Frame 4 hp


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Summary

Here we have one more Executive pump, but this one is a bit different compared to the previous one. The motor has 4 horsepower, and this is a single speed pump. Maximum flow this pump can create is 160 GPM, which is excellent to power the jets in a tub what has twin pumps, where the additional one runs the circulation. It has a 56 frame, so you can only replace a pump of this size.

Like other Waterway products, you can compare the number for quick info whether it will fit or not. The requirement for this one is 230V, and the amperage is 12A while running at its single speed. You can easily install it, and the pump housing design enables lower operating temperature of the motor, as well as longer lifespan of the pump.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Wet end rotates 90 degrees
  • Four horsepower
  • Single speed
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10

American Spa Parts Hot Tub

American Spa Parts Hot Tub


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Summary

This is a replacement part for the wet end of your pump, so be careful. You won’t be getting a motor in the package, this is only to replace the wet end if there is a leak, a problem with the impeller or other issues. It fits Guangdong LX pumps, in particular it can replace the part which has WUA-400, WP-400 or LP-400 on the label. The main pump is a 56 frame product with 4 horsepower. Discharge outlets are 2 inches, while the threads are 3 inches, as with most similar products.

In the package you’ll get the complete wet end – meaning it includes the seals as well as the impeller. Installing will require you to loosen the bolts which hold the impeller, so you can properly detach the wet end. Be sure to measure the old part precisely. Even though it looks similar to wet ends on other products, it will fit perfectly only on those we mentioned. Otherwise it may cause leaks and other problems.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Wet end replacement
  • Affordable
  • Fits many motors
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How To Choose The Best Spa Pump – Buying Guide

How_to_Choose_A_Spa_Pump

It’s important that you know the specs of the pump which came with the tub. There will usually be a label on the side which states horsepower, number of speeds, flow, intake and discharge diameter and other useful information. If you can’t find it, you can contact the manufacturer and ask them about it.

The reason for this is so that you can compare and get a compatible pump. In general, more horsepower and higher speed is better, but the hot tub piping can be a limiting factor for this. In order for it to work properly, it should have similar (or same) specs.

Spend a bit more money if you need to, because if you get the best spa pump it will pay off in the long run. Very cheap pumps are available too, but be careful if you opt for these – they can have both operation and durability issues, and you may end up needing to replace it much sooner than you’d hoped for.

Speed And Flow

Hot tub pumps have two varieties – they can have two operating speeds or just one. The two-speed pump has a low and high setting, and they are used for both water circulation and powering the jets. You can switch between speeds on the control panel. On the other hand, a single-speed pump creates a constant flow. In this case, there are usually two pumps in the spa – one for circulation, and a stronger pump for the jets.

An important aspect of every pump is the flow. This represents the amount of water which goes through pump discharge, and it’s shown in GPM (gallons per minute). This depends on the power a pump has. Some smaller spa circulating pumps have around 30 GPM, while strong pumps which power the jets can have well over 200 GPM.

Energy Efficiency

The hot tub will spend some electric energy, there’s no doubt about it. But modern pumps are made to be more energy efficient, meaning they can get more done with less power. Also, it can pay off to get a new pump which operates properly (instead of an old one causing problems) because this too can decrease energy consumption. Stronger pumps will have higher wattage and drain more, so if this is an issue for you be sure to look at the efficiency ratings before buying.

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Wet And Dry Ends

A hot tub pump has two main parts. The first one is the dry end (dry chamber), where the electromotor is located. It must remain dry at all times, otherwise a hazard will occur. No water from the wet end should pass through, not even moisture. It will cause the pump to stop working and create short circuits.

On the other hand, the wet end has an impeller. A shaft connects it to electromotor, and the impeller blades run the water through the system when the pump is turned on. If your wet end encounters problems, you’ll notice circulation difficulties in the spa.

Voltage

Depending on your tub, pumps come with different voltage. They will either be 110-120V and connected with two wires, or 220-240V and connected with four wires. Universal products also exist, which can be connected to either one. But for most, this is something you need to match when getting a new pump, otherwise you won’t be able to run it.

Horsepower

This shows how much power a pump has. When it comes to pumps designed for hot tubs, they range from under 1hp to 5hp. Horsepower can make a significant difference in terms of performance. However, we already mentioned that you should get a pump similar to the current one. There is no point in putting the strongest one in if the plumbing isn’t able to support it.

Some manufacturers list out horsepower achieved in the factory, in ideal conditions. You should be aware of this, because the pump won’t be able to have the same power when in your hot tub.

Discharge

The place where the water exist is called a discharge port. Depending on pump type, it can be located on top or on the side. This is important to notice because it enables you to connect the pump properly to the tub water system. Some of the best hot tub pumps will allow you to rotate the discharge and place it at any angle which suits you. In addition, discharge diameter is also a factor.

Frame Size

Pumps come with two types of frames – a smaller 48 frame and a larger 56. When you’re installing the pump into the tub, it needs to be bolted into place. Otherwise, it will create vibrations, noise and can even malfunction after some time. This is why the frame needs to fit. The size is usually pointed out on the label, so you can know right away which type you need to buy.

If you can’t find the information, you can do some simple measuring to find out. There are pre-drilled holes where the pump should be placed. If the distance between bolts is under 4 inches then you should buy a 48. On the other hand, if the distance is over 4 inches, then you should buy a 56.

Pump Plumbing Size

The plumbing is already in place in your tub, and the size and design will determine how strong your new pump can be. This depends on the tub type and manufacturer. It’s not smart to overload the plumbing, so the new pump shouldn’t exceed the old one by more than 1hp. Otherwise it can interfere with tub operation, because the plumbing won’t be able to handle the load. It will lead to bad water circulation or jets not working properly. In even worse scenarios, the pump may get damaged, or you may get leaks from increased pressure.

The water system in the hot tub circulates the water, and every part plays its role. There are two or more intake ports in the tub, where the water is sucked into the system. It then passes through the filter, which eliminates debris and impurities from the water. Afterwards, the now clean water goes into the pump, which creates circulation. From here it travels into the heater where it’s warmed to your preferred temperature, and then it’s returned back into the tub.

FAQs

What_Size_Hot_Tub_Pump_Do_I_Need

Q: What Size Hot Tub Pump Do I Need?

A: You need a pump that will fit in the spacing you have, and also have the right connections for water and electricity. It shouldn’t be physically larger than your previous one. As for strength, take our advice and don’t go too much overboard.

Q: How To Use A Hot Tub Pump?

A: 

Depending on the type of tub you have, you’ll certainly have an on/off button or a control panel. This panel will allow you to turn it on, control whether the jets are turned on, and control the speed of your pump. When using the pump for the first time (or after refilling), you need to prime the pump to eliminate the air from the system. Some pumps offer self-priming, which is convenient.

Be careful when replacing your old pump. Turn everything off (both the tub and the breaker), and only then proceed with removing the pump. The process itself is not complicated, you just need to pay attention to the wiring and connections so you can install the new one the same way as the old. When finished, bolt the pump in place tightly, so it doesn’t create noise or vibrations.

Q: How To Clean A Hot Tub Pump?

A: 

Maintaining the hygiene of your tub is one of the most important things if you want to fully enjoy it. When it comes to the motor, it doesn’t require any special cleaning. However, scaling can cause problems for both the motor and the whole piping system.

This happens because of higher mineral content in the water you’re using. In addition, imbalance of the pH level in your tub can make the process faster. If the amount becomes too large, it may compromise impeller rotation and stop the circulation. This is why you should use a water softener if you notice signs of this happening.

As for the rest of the tub, you should drain and clean it from time to time. Scrub it down using special products designed for this purpose. Also, make sure to have working filters and to clean them when needed. When you notice something is not right, you should react quickly – fix the problem by yourself or call a professional to do it. If you wait too long, problems will build up and lead to repairs being costlier than they needed to be.

Globo Surf Overview

Having a great pump makes your tub what it is. If it’s not working properly for any reason, you won’t be enjoying yourself very much. Luckily, excellent options are available when you decide it’s time to get a new one. Like we said, to get the best hot tub pump you need to consider different features. Take time to compare the products, we’re sure you’ll be more than satisfied when you make your pick in the end.

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