⚡ Waterway Executive 48 Spa Pump 3420610-1A — 1.5 HP 2-Speed 115V
Premium Viton-sealed performance with the industry’s best spa pump warranty
♨️ Product Overview
The Waterway Executive 48 (Part No. 3420610-1A) is a premium-grade 1.5 HP, 2-speed jet pump designed, engineered, and manufactured in the USA by Waterway Plastics of Oxnard, California. Featuring the oversized 6-1/2″ diameter Executive wet end — specifically designed for 48-frame motors — this pump generates higher head pressure than smaller wet end designs, enabling powerful hydrotherapy at 3,450 RPM on high speed and energy-efficient filtration at 1,725 RPM on low speed.
What sets the Executive apart from other Waterway pump lines is its chemical-resistant Viton shaft seal with silicone carbide faces and 316 stainless steel casing, providing exceptional durability against chlorine, bromine, and salt water systems. The highly versatile wet end rotates every 90 degrees (to the 3:00, 9:00, or 12:00 position) for flexible plumbing installation, and the motor is thermally protected to extend its life expectancy. With 2″ MBT intake and 2″ side discharge, UL/CUL certification, and an industry-leading warranty of 2 years on the motor and 3 years on the wet end, the Executive 48 delivers the performance and reliability that professionals and spa owners trust. Cord and unions are sold separately.
🌟 Key Features
- ✅ 1.5 HP Rated / 2-Speed Operation — High speed (3,450 RPM) for powerful jets; low speed (1,725 RPM) for energy-saving filtration
- ✅ 115V / 60Hz — Standard US household voltage with automatic overload protection
- ✅ Large 6-1/2″ Diameter Executive Wet End — Specifically designed for 48-frame motors, delivers higher head pressure than standard wet ends
- ✅ Viton Shaft Seal — Silicone carbide faces, Viton bellows, 316 stainless steel casing for superior chemical resistance against chlorine, bromine, and salt
- ✅ Made in the USA — Designed, engineered, and manufactured by Waterway Plastics in Oxnard, California
- ✅ Thermally Protected Motor — Extends motor life expectancy with automatic overload protection
- ✅ 90-Degree Rotatable Wet End — Rotates to 3:00, 9:00, or 12:00 position for flexible plumbing options
- ✅ 2″ MBT Intake and 2″ Side Discharge — Thread OD approximately 3″ to 3-1/16″ for standard 2″ plumbing
- ✅ UL and CUL Certified — Safety certified for the US and Canadian markets
- ✅ Industry-Leading Warranty — 2 years on motor, 3 years on wet end
- ✅ Can Be Wired Single or Dual Speed — Easily configured for 1-speed or 2-speed spa control systems
🔩 Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 3420610-1A |
| Alternate Part Numbers | PF-15-2N11C4, P215E42012 |
| Manufacturer | Waterway Plastics (Oxnard, CA, USA) |
| Pump Series | Executive 48-Frame |
| Pump Type | Jet Pump — Side Discharge |
| Motor Power (Rated) | 1.5 HP Continuous |
| Speed Settings | 2-Speed (High and Low) |
| High Speed RPM | 3,450 RPM |
| Low Speed RPM | 1,725 RPM |
| Voltage | 115V |
| Frequency | 60 Hz |
| Amperage (High Speed) | 16.4A |
| Amperage (Low Speed) | 4.4A |
| Frame Type | 48Y (Thru-Bolt) |
| Motor Diameter | 5.6″ |
| Wet End Diameter | 6-1/2″ (6.5″) |
| Discharge Port Size | 2″ MBT (Male Buttress Thread) |
| Suction Port Size | 2″ MBT (Male Buttress Thread) |
| Discharge Location | Side — Rotatable every 90° |
| Suction Location | Center (front face) |
| Thread Outer Diameter | Approximately 3″ to 3-1/16″ |
| Wet End Rotation | 3:00, 9:00, or 12:00 positions |
| Overall Length | 16-3/8″ |
| Height | 8.22″ to 8.34″ |
| Width | 8.13″ |
| Seal Type | Viton — Silicone carbide faces, Viton bellows, 316SS casing |
| Thermal Protection | Yes — Automatic overload protection |
| Unions Included | No — Sold separately |
| Cord Included | No — Cord not included |
| Certifications | UL, CUL |
| Country of Manufacture | USA |
| Warranty | 2 Years Motor / 3 Years Wet End |
🔌 Electrical Requirements
| Electrical Spec | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage | 115V |
| Frequency | 60 Hz |
| Phase | Single |
| Full Load Amps (High Speed) | 16.4A (may vary by motor brand) |
| Full Load Amps (Low Speed) | 4.4A (may vary by motor brand) |
| Wiring | Per motor nameplate wiring diagram |
⚠️ IMPORTANT:
All electrical work must be performed by a licensed electrician in accordance with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and all applicable local and state building codes.
Hot tubs require GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection — the pump must be supplied through a GFCI device with a rated residual operating current not exceeding 30mA per the manufacturer’s installation manual.
A dedicated circuit is required — do not share with other appliances.
Ground the motor prior to connecting electrical power. Do not ground to a gas supply line. Improper grounding can cause serious injury and damage to the motor, voiding the warranty.
Applied voltage must correspond to the rated voltage indicated on the motor marking plate. Voltage at terminals should be within 10% of nameplate rating.
For 2-speed models: Do not wire both speeds to run simultaneously. When removing the power cord from an existing pump, mark your wires for “common,” “high speed,” and “low speed.” The connection diagram is on the motor nameplate.
🔗 Compatibility Guide
This Pump:
- 📐 Frame: 48Y (Thru-Bolt)
- 📐 Wet End: 6-1/2″ Executive
- 📐 Intake: 2″ MBT — Center (front face)
- 📐 Discharge: 2″ MBT — Side (rotatable 90°)
- 📐 Thread OD: ~3″ to 3-1/16″
⚠️ Port Size Warning: Some Waterway Executive 48 pump models have a 2-1/2″ intake (which measures about 3-11/16″ outer diameter of thread). This pump (3420610-1A) has 2″ x 2″ ports. Verify that both your intake and discharge are 2″ (approximately 3″ outer thread diameter) before ordering. If your existing pump has a 2-1/2″ intake, you may need the Waterway adapter 415-6010 (2-1/2″ to 2″).
Replaces the Following Part Numbers:
| Part Number | Notes |
|---|---|
| 3420613 | Same pump — alternate part number |
| 3420613-19 | Same pump — relabeled with 3.0HP marketing HP |
| 3420613-1A86 | Same pump — alternate format |
| PF-15-2N11C4 | Waterway model designation |
| PF-30-2N11C4 | Same pump — labeled 3.0HP at manufacturer request |
| PF-15-2N11M4 | Alternate Waterway model designation |
| P215E42012 | Alternate Waterway model designation |
| 1-00-0082 | Cross-reference |
| 308607 | Cross-reference |
| 3J20610 | Cross-reference |
| 5039-157 | Cross-reference |
| 673824 | Cross-reference |
| 905840177 | Cross-reference |
| WW34206101A | Cross-reference |
| WWP-10-1001 | Cross-reference |
| 15-350-4014 | Cross-reference |
| 34-270-3202 | Cross-reference — multiple suffix variants (W, N) |
| 3420610-1AHZW | HotTubOutpost variant |
| 3420610-1AHZN | HotTubOutpost variant (US Motor) |
| 34206101ACT | Clearwater Spa variant |
⚠️ Union Compatibility Warning: There is no industry standard for pump unions. Different pump brands use different thread sizes and styles. If you are replacing a non-Waterway pump, you will most likely need to cut off your old unions and install new Waterway-compatible unions. If your heater is directly coupled to the wet end, verify compatibility before ordering.
🛠️ Installation Requirements
Mounting:
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Mounting Position | Horizontal — Place on level surface |
| Location | Below water surface (flooded suction) |
| Area | Clear of direct water with adequate floor drainage |
| Protection | Protect from excessive moisture |
| Restriction | Do not install within an outer enclosure or beneath the skirt of a spa unless so marked |
Plumbing:
| Connection | Size |
|---|---|
| Suction (Intake) | 2″ MBT — Center (front face) |
| Discharge | 2″ MBT — Side (rotatable 90°) |
| Thread OD | Approximately 3″ to 3-1/16″ |
| Rotation Positions | 3:00, 9:00, or 12:00 |
Installation Notes:
⚠️ Wet end can be rotated by loosening the motor thru-bolts and turning the pump head to 3:00, 9:00, or 12:00 position to match your existing plumbing
⚠️ Install shut-off valves on both the inlet and outlet for future maintenance
⚠️ Do not use pipe dope — use only Teflon tape or other sealing compounds approved for plastic. Some pipe dopes cause stress cracking of plastic parts
⚠️ Hand tighten unions only — do not overtighten
⚠️ Pressure testing should not exceed 40 PSI — ensure all air is removed during pressure test
⚠️ Ensure proper grounding and bonding per NEC requirements
⚠️ GFCI protection is required by code for all hot tub and spa installations
⚠️ Product Change Notification: Waterway has removed two of the three drain plugs from the front of Executive wet ends. The two side ports are rarely used. If required, they can still be drilled and tapped on location.
🔄 Maintenance Guide
Routine Maintenance:
| Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Check for leaks | Monthly | Around seal, unions, and drain plug |
| Inspect unions and fittings | Monthly | Hand tighten only if needed |
| Clean strainer/filter | As needed | Remove debris to maintain flow |
| Check amperage | Annually | Should be within 10% of nameplate rating |
| Inspect motor vents | Quarterly | Keep clear of debris for cooling |
| Check mounting | Quarterly | Ensure pump is secure on level surface |
| Verify drain plug | Quarterly | Check O-ring (805-0112) condition |
Warning Signs — Replace Pump If:
- Unusual noise (grinding, screeching, bearing noise, rotor rub)
- Water leaking from shaft seal
- Motor trips breaker repeatedly
- Reduced water flow through jets
- Motor overheating or thermal protector tripping repeatedly
- Motor hums but won’t start (possible capacitor or winding switch failure)
Executive 48-Frame Wet End Replacement Parts (Waterway OEM):
| Part Number | Description |
|---|---|
| 319-3100B | Pump Seal Set (Viton) |
| 319-1380 | Wear Ring — Executive Pump 3/4, 1, 2, and 3 HP |
| 311-1220 | Executive Faceplate 2″ |
| 805-0261 | O-Ring #261 — Volute for Executive Faceplate |
| 315-1240 | Executive Volute 48-Frame with Inserts |
| 313-1400 | Slinger |
| 715-1201 | 3/8″ Quarter Slot Plug — Air Relief |
| 805-0112 | O-Ring #111 — Pump Drain Plug |
| 819-1110 | Screw #8-32 x 7/16″ PPH |
| 310-1880 | Complete Wet End — 1.5 HP Executive 48-Frame |
🎯 Ideal Applications
| Application | Suitability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ♨️ Hot tub jet pump | ✅ Yes | Large 6-1/2″ wet end provides high head pressure for powerful jets |
| ♨️ Spa filtration/circulation | ✅ Yes | Low speed provides energy-efficient filtration at 1,725 RPM |
| ♨️ Plug-and-play spa (115V) | ✅ Yes | Suitable for 115V plug-and-play and smaller hot tub models |
| ♨️ Clearwater Spa replacement | ✅ Yes | Verified replacement (34206101ACT) |
| ♨️ Salt water spa systems | ✅ Yes | Viton seal with 316SS casing resists salt corrosion |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What horsepower is this pump? A: The rated continuous horsepower is 1.5 HP. Some spa manufacturers have relabeled this pump with marketing horsepower up to 3.0 HP — the physical pump and motor are identical regardless of the label. Always use amperage, not horsepower, when matching replacement pumps.
Q: What is the difference between the Executive (3420610-1A) and the EX2 (3420610-1U)? A: Both are 1.5 HP, 115V, 2-speed, 48-frame Waterway pumps. Key differences: the Executive features a larger 6-1/2″ diameter wet end designed for higher head pressure and uses a premium Viton shaft seal (319-3100B) with silicone carbide and 316 stainless steel. The EX2 uses a different wet end that fits the Aqua-Flo XP2 volume envelope and uses seal kit 319-3010B. The Executive also carries a better warranty — 2 years motor / 3 years wet end versus 1 year for the EX2.
Q: What is the amperage of this pump? A: The primary rating is 16.4A high speed / 4.4A low speed. Waterway may ship pumps with different motor brands, and some motor versions show slightly different ratings (13.3/4.1A or 13.5/4.7A). Always check the motor nameplate on your specific pump. Size your circuit and wiring for the highest possible amperage.
Q: What voltage does this pump require? A: 115V / 60Hz. Do not use on 230V circuits. All electrical installation must be performed by a licensed electrician.
Q: Are unions included? A: No. Unions are sold separately. There is no industry standard for pump unions — if replacing a non-Waterway pump, you will likely need to install new unions compatible with the Waterway thread. We recommend getting new O-rings as well.
Q: Is a pump cord included? A: No. The cord is sold separately. Reuse your existing cord or purchase a compatible 115V spa pump cord.
Q: What size are the ports? A: Both intake and discharge are 2″ MBT. The outer thread diameter is approximately 3″ to 3-1/16″. Verify your existing pump has 2″ ports (not 2-1/2″) before ordering.
Q: Can I rotate the wet end to match my plumbing? A: Yes. The Executive wet end rotates every 90 degrees to the 3:00, 9:00, or 12:00 position. Loosen the motor thru-bolts, rotate the pump head to the desired position, and retighten.
Q: Why does my old pump label say 3.0 HP but you say this is 1.5 HP? A: Some spa manufacturers requested relabeled pumps showing higher “marketing horsepower” (PF-30-2N11C4 / 3420613-19 showing 3.0 HP). This is the same physical pump as the 3420610-1A. The continuous rated HP is 1.5. The uprated HP is 2.0. Marketing HP claims up to 3.0 are not the actual continuous output. Always match by amperage for accuracy.
Q: What seal does this pump use? A: The Waterway Executive uses seal set 319-3100B — a premium Viton shaft seal with silicone carbide faces and 316 stainless steel casing, designed for superior resistance to chlorine, bromine, and salt water.
Q: What warranty is included? A: 2-year manufacturer warranty on the motor, 3-year warranty on the wet end — when installed by a qualified installer. Proof of purchase required. Contact Parts4Tubs for full terms.
Q: Do I need a GFCI breaker? A: Yes, GFCI protection is required by the National Electrical Code (NEC) for all hot tub and spa installations. The manufacturer specifies a GFCI device with rated residual operating current not exceeding 30mA.
📥 Downloads & Resources
📄 48/56 Frame Executive, EX2 & Viper Pump Installation Manual (PDF) — Installation instructions, wiring guidance, troubleshooting chart, safety warnings, and exploded parts diagram (Document 810-0061.1111)
🏆 Why Choose the Waterway Executive 48
- ✅ Made in the USA — Designed, engineered, and manufactured by Waterway Plastics in Oxnard, California
- ✅ Premium Viton seal — Silicone carbide faces with 316 stainless steel casing for maximum chemical resistance
- ✅ Large 6-1/2″ wet end — Higher head pressure for powerful hydrotherapy jets
- ✅ Best-in-class warranty — 2 years motor / 3 years wet end
- ✅ Thermally protected motor — Automatic overload protection extends motor life
- ✅ Rotatable wet end — 90-degree rotation for flexible plumbing installation
- ✅ 2-speed energy savings — Low speed filtration dramatically reduces electricity costs
🤝 Why Buy from Parts4Tubs
- ✅ US-based support for American customers
- ✅ Fast shipping across the United States
- ✅ Expert advice from spa and hot tub specialists
- ✅ Competitive pricing in USD
- ✅ Full warranty support
- ✅ Hassle-free returns
- ✅ Replacement seals, wet ends, impellers, and parts available
- ✅ Dedicated customer service team
✨ Summary
The Waterway Executive 48 (3420610-1A) is a USA-made, 1.5 HP rated, 2-speed jet pump with the industry’s premium Viton shaft seal and oversized 6-1/2″ Executive wet end for maximum head pressure. Operating at 115V/60Hz with UL/CUL certification and backed by an industry-leading 2-year motor / 3-year wet end warranty, this pump delivers superior performance and chemical resistance for demanding hot tub applications. The 90-degree rotatable wet end with 2″ x 2″ side discharge configuration ensures flexible installation. Order today from Parts4Tubs for fast US shipping and expert compatibility support.
Union, Pump, Magic, 1-1/2"S x 1-1/2"FBT (Industry Standard) w/ O-Ring | ||
Union, Pump, Magic, 2"S x 2"FBT (Industry Standard) w/ O-Ring | ||
Union, Pump, Waterway, 2-1/2"FBT x 2-1/2"S | ||
Amp Plug, Pump, 1-Speed, 14/3, 4-Pin, 5' Cord, White | ||
Amp Plug, Pump 1 (2-Speed) 14/4, 72" Long, White |
Hot Tub Pump Collar & Union Size Chart
| Union Size | Collar Size | Thread OD | Union OD | O-Ring Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1.5"
Female Buttress
Thread (FBT) |
2.5" / 64mm
(Tip to Tip)
Measurement |
2-1/2"
64mm
|
2-13/16"
71mm
|
2-5/16" OD
59mm
|
|
2"
Female Buttress
Thread (FBT) |
3.1" / 78mm
(Tip to Tip)
Measurement |
3-1/16"
78mm
|
3-3/8"
81mm
|
2-15/16" OD
75mm
|
|
2.5"
Female Buttress
Thread (FBT) |
3.6" / 91mm
(Tip to Tip)
Measurement |
3-5/8"
91mm
|
4-1/4"
108mm
|
3-7/16" OD
87mm
|
Important Notes
How do I Replace a Hot Tub Pump?
Here's a general step-by-step guide on how to replace a hot tub pump. Keep in mind that the specific steps may vary depending on your hot tub's make and model, so it's essential to consult your hot tub's manual for model-specific instructions. If you're not comfortable with this procedure, it's a good idea to seek professional assistance.
Materials You'll Need:
- Replacement pump
- Pipe wrench
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Pipe sealant (thread tape or plumber's putty)
- PVC primer and cement (if you have PVC plumbing)
- Teflon tape (for threaded connections)
Procedure:
-
Turn Off the Power: Before you begin, ensure the hot tub's power supply is turned off at the circuit breaker or disconnect switch. Safety should always be a priority when working with electrical components.
-
Drain the Hot Tub: If your hot tub is not already empty, you'll need to drain it. Follow your hot tub's manual or manufacturer's instructions for proper draining. (You might not need to do this if you can lock the pump off with the gate valves)
-
Locate the Pump: Identify the location of the existing pump in your hot tub. It's usually located near the equipment area or in a designated pump compartment.
-
Disconnect the Electrical Wiring: Carefully disconnect the electrical wiring from the old pump. This typically involves removing the electrical conduit cover, unscrewing wire nuts, and disconnecting the wires from the terminals. Be sure to note the wire connections or take a picture for reference when connecting the new pump.
-
Disconnect the Plumbing: Depending on your hot tub's plumbing setup, you'll need to disconnect the plumbing connections to the pump. Use a pipe wrench or adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the fittings. Be prepared for some water spillage when disconnecting the plumbing.
-
Remove the Old Pump: Once the electrical and plumbing connections are detached, carefully remove the old pump from its mounting position. Some pumps may be secured with mounting brackets or bolts.
-
Prepare the New Pump: If the new pump is not pre-assembled, you may need to attach fittings, unions, or adapters to match your hot tub's plumbing. Ensure that you use the appropriate sealant or Teflon tape on threaded connections to prevent leaks.
-
Mount the New Pump: Position the new pump in the same location as the old one and secure it in place using the mounting brackets or bolts.
-
Reconnect Plumbing: Reconnect the plumbing to the new pump, ensuring that all connections are tight and secure. If your hot tub uses PVC plumbing, use PVC primer and cement to bond the connections properly.
-
Reconnect Electrical Wiring: Reconnect the electrical wiring to the new pump, following the notes or pictures you took earlier. Make sure all wires are properly connected and secure.
-
Turn On the Power: Restore power to the hot tub by switching on the circuit breaker or reconnecting the disconnect switch.
-
Test the Pump: Turn on the hot tub's pump to ensure that it's working correctly. Check for any signs of leaks or irregularities in the plumbing connections.
-
Refill the Hot Tub: Once you've confirmed that the new pump is functioning properly, refill the hot tub with water.
-
Check for Leaks: Inspect the plumbing connections for any leaks. If you find any, turn off the pump, drain the tub again, and reseal the connections as needed.
-
Monitor: Keep an eye on the pump and plumbing for the next few days to ensure everything is functioning correctly and that there are no further issues.
Remember that this is a general guideline, and the specific steps may vary based on your hot tub's design. If you're unsure or uncomfortable with any aspect of this process, please do get in touch, happy to help.
How do I know what size hot tub pump I have?
Determining the size of your hot tub pump is an important step when it comes to maintenance or replacement. To find out the size of your hot tub pump, follow these steps:
-
Check the Manual: The easiest way to determine the size of your hot tub pump is to consult the owner's manual or user documentation that came with your hot tub. The manual typically contains detailed information about the specifications and components of your hot tub, including the pump.
-
Look at the Pump Housing: If you don't have access to the manual or it doesn't provide the information you need, inspect the pump itself. Most hot tub pumps have a label or plate on the pump housing that displays essential details, including the pump's model number, manufacturer, and specifications. You can then send that to me or Google it.
-
Measure the Pump: If the label is missing or damaged, you can measure the pump's dimensions. Measure the diameter of the pump's wet end (the part where the water flows) and the length of the wet end. These measurements can help identify the size and capacity of the pump.
-
Consult the Manufacturer: If you can't find the information on the pump or in the manual, contact the hot tub manufacturer or a reputable dealer. Provide them with your hot tub's model and serial number, and they should be able to identify the correct pump size for your specific hot tub.
-
Online Research: You can also search online using the pump's model number or hot tub's make and model. Many manufacturers provide detailed information about their products on their websites, and you may find specifications for your pump model.
Once you have determined the size and specifications of your hot tub pump, you can proceed with maintenance, repairs, or replacement if necessary. Keep in mind that replacing a hot tub pump with the same size and capacity as the original is crucial to ensure proper water circulation and filtration in your hot tub. If you're unsure about any aspect of this process, get in touch, always happy to help.














