The Best Hot Tub Pumps

We often take things for granted until they stop working, like the hot tub pump. This unsung hero is responsible for the whirlpool effect, soothing currents, and rejuvenating experience we cherish in our hot tubs. But when the pump fails, our relaxation oasis turns into an oversized, frigid puddle.

Not all hot tub pumps are equal, so choosing the right one is crucial for a magical hot tub experience. In the next section, we’ll explore the best pump options on the market to help you make an informed decision that’ll keep your hot tub bubbling and enchanting.

Best Hot Tub Pumps Reviews

Following are the best hot tub pumps sold by different brands. Read the pros and cons of each one to decide which one would fit your hot tub:

1. Spa Circulation Pump E5 – 74427 for Watkins: Hot Spring, Tiger River, Caldera Hot Tubs by Laing

Pros

• Easy installation
• Works without noise
• You will enjoy more pressure out of the jets
• It’s smaller in size and lightweight

Cons

• It’s pricey

Spa Circulation Pump E5 – 74427 hot tub pump comes with increased capacity and performance as compared to its predecessors. The magnetic drive makes the pump start slowly in the water.

It is water lubricated so it should not be operated without water. In case the pump is run dry, there is an internal safety device that shuts down the unit automatically if it overheats.

2. Waterway Plastics 3722020-1D Executive 56 Frame 5 hp Spa Pump, 230-volt

Pros

• The unit consumes less energy
• Takes just 10 to 15 minutes to install
• It can last for a long time
• Does not make noise when turned on

Cons

• Some users haven’t found the pump durable

Waterway Plastics 3722020-1D Executive 56 Frame 5 hp Spa Pump would be a great addition to your spa. It has a versatile wet end which can also be rotated at 90 degrees.

It produces 220 GPM flow rate so you will be enjoying your soak to the last bit. The unit has 2 double shielded ball bearings that are moisture resistant. This guarantees a quieter operation.

To provide it with more strength, there is a 56 frame motor. This also makes its temperature cooler when the pump is working. Therefore, there is no need to worry about the life of the motor.

3. Hot Tub Submersible Drain Pump Portable Water Pump Koi Pond Drain Pump

Pros

• The design makes it easy to carry
• Extremely easy to use
• It’s a sturdy piece of equipment

Cons

• The last bit of water has to be manually scooped out

This unit can pump up to 2000 gallons of water in an hour. It has a universal hose fitting that can fit drain hoses from 1 inch to 1.25 inches. The pump requires very little work to operate. There is an overheat prevention mechanism that shuts it off automatically whenever the water line becomes low.

It will do its job within a few hours. However, you might have to scoop the last bit of water from your tub manually.

4. Professional EZ Travel Collection Hot Tub and Swimming Pool Drain Pump with Hose Pond/Flood Pump

Pros

• Fast and efficient at its job
• Extracts even the last bit of water
• Strong motor provides enough power to work

Cons

• Watch out for cheap materials

You can count on Professional EZ Travel Collection Hot Tub and Swimming Pool Drain Pump to drain 3700 gallons of water per hour. It’s fast and efficient.

Your hot tub will drain within a few minutes and the best part is it doesn’t leave any water behind that would require manual work. It’s all possible because of its folding bottom feet design.

There is an overheat prevention system that automatically shuts the machine when the water line is too low. The unit has a versatile design and it’s easy to carry too.

5. HydroMaster 1.5 HP Hot Tub Spa Pump Side Discharge 2-Speed 48-Frame LX Motor 120V

Pros

• Simple installation
• Nice water flow
• Powerful motor

Cons

• The pump might freeze unexpectedly

HydroMaster 1.5 HP Hot Tub Spa Pump is one of the premium quality hot tub pumps. It’s very simple to install. Just clock the pump in its place and wire it. It will be ready to use then. Even though it has 1.5 hp, you will still enjoy a nice water flow.

With 1.5 hp 2-speed, it produces 155 GPM.  It’s a great replacement hot tub pump. Plus, you will get a 1-year warranty.

6. Waterway Executive Spa Pump Side Discharge 56-Frame 2″ 4.0Hp 230V 2-Speed 3721621-1d

Pros

• The wiring is simple
• Doesn’t make noise
• 4 hp makes it a powerful unit

Cons

• Watch out for shipment mishandling

Waterway Executive Spa Pump is designed for 56 frame motor. It has double shielded ball bearings that are moisture resistant grease to provide a longer lifespan and ensure quieter operation. For a higher head pressure, the unit has 6-1/2” diameter wet end.

Since it’s a side discharge pump, it has an opening on the side of the wet end. The water propels through the openings and flows out through the jets.

7. Gecko Alliance 06115000-1040 Flo-Master 1.5 HP 2 Speed 115V Xp2 Spa Pump

Pros

• Easy to assemble and fits perfectly
• Energy efficient
• You will enjoy a higher water flow

Cons

• Gets hot when running
• Produces noise

Gecko Alliance 06115000-1040 Flo-Master 1.5 HP 2 Speed 115V Xp2 Spa Pump is not just suitable for spas and hot tubs but above ground pools too. It has a side discharge operation and multiple drain locations.

The pump is easy to install and requires very little maintenance. It is designed in a unique way to deliver a higher flow rate.  With 1.5 hp, the water flow rate is 140 GPM. Even with such an hp, you will enjoy a nice water flow.

How Does A Hot Tub Pump Work?

A pump is an essential element of a spa or a hot tub. No hot water will flow through the jets without it. The water would just sit still.  The pump is responsible for circulating water in the hot tub. Through the filter, the heater and then the jets.
Some tubs have 2 pumps; one for filtering at a low speed and one for sending water through the jets at high speed. The high speed water, however, throws narrow jets so that you can enjoy a nice water pressure overall. This pump is usually powered by a motor.

Hot Tub Pump Buying Guide

When replacing your hot tub pump, consider these factors:

• Horsepower (HP): Match the original HP or go up by 1 level max. Higher HP can cause improper functioning.
• Speed: Determine if your pump is single or two-speed by checking how the jets respond when you turn it on.
• Frame Size: Pumps commonly have 48 or 56 frame sizes. Check the label or measure the distance between the bolts.
• Voltage: Ensure the new pump matches your spa’s voltage (120V or 240V). Mismatched voltage means the pump won’t work.
• Plumbing Size: Measure the diameter of the PVC intake/outtake pipes, not the pump wet end holes. Match this size for proper water flow.

With this information, you can select a compatible replacement hot tub pump that meets your spa’s requirements.

Determining the Right Hot Tub Pump Size

To select the properly sized replacement pump for your hot tub, you’ll need to identify the following specifications from your existing pump:

• Frame Size: Measure the distance between the mounting bolts. Less than 4 inches is a 48 frame, greater than 4 inches is a 56 frame.
• Speed/GPM: The pump’s gallons per minute (GPM) flow rate should match the hot tub’s jet requirements. Calculate by multiplying the number of jets by their rated flow.
• Voltage: Pumps with 2 wires use 110-120V, while those with 4 wires require 220-240V power.
• Horsepower (HP): Match the original pump’s HP rating. Don’t increase more than 1 HP above the original.
• Plumbing Size: Measure the diameter of both the intake and discharge pipes to determine the required union size.

Noting these key specs from your existing hot tub pump will allow you to select a compatible replacement with the proper size, flow rate, voltage and horsepower for optimal performance.

How To Install A Hot Tub Pump

Once you are sure you have bought the right replacement pump for your hot tub or spa, you will have no problem installing it. In fact, the process is fairly simple. Here is how you can get started:

• Drain the hot tub before you do anything. It should be completely dry when you are about to remove the pump.
• Make sure you have some towels with you because some water is going to flow out from the pipes.
• Detach the copper grounding wire and loosen the fittings of the intake and the discharge.
• Unscrew the bolts in the frame. Reach the wires and detach them.
• Place the new pump and wire it properly. Tighten its fittings and bolt back the frame.
• Once the pump is set, it’s time to test the spa. Refill the tub and watch the water flow.

In summary,

The manner in which water cascades from the jets of your hot tub hinges entirely on the specific pump you opt for. Therefore, it’s imperative to invest substantial effort in selecting the ideal replacement pump. As evidenced, the market offers a plethora of choices when it comes to hot tub pumps; the key is to discern which one is the perfect match for your spa.

By making a well-informed choice from the selection of items reviewed above, you can rest assured that you won’t find yourself plagued by buyer’s regret.

Wise Reviewer