🔧 Balboa Vico Ultima Spa Pump 1054203 – 1 HP 2-Speed 115V

Whisper-quiet operation with exceptional jet power for your hot tub

💧 Product Overview

The Balboa Vico Ultima 1054203 is a 1.0 HP, 2-speed jet pump engineered specifically for the North American hot tub and spa market. Manufactured by Vico (a Balboa Water Group brand), this Ultima-series pump delivers powerful hydrotherapy jet performance on high speed while offering energy-efficient low-speed operation for filtration, heating, and water circulation.

Built around a compact 48-frame thru-bolt motor, the 1054203 operates on standard 115V/60Hz power, making it an ideal choice for plug-and-play portable spa models. The 2-inch male buttress thread (MBT) connections on both suction and discharge ports ensure broad compatibility with most hot tub plumbing configurations. With carbon ceramic seals featuring Viton elastomers, this pump is built to endure prolonged heat and chemical exposure while maintaining reliable, quiet performance season after season.

Whether you are replacing an aging pump or upgrading your spa system, the Vico Ultima 1054203 combines proven reliability with value pricing from one of the most trusted names in the spa industry.

✨ Key Features

✅ 1.0 HP Motor Power – Delivers strong jet pressure for a satisfying hydrotherapy experience in small to mid-size spas

✅ 2-Speed Operation – High speed for powerful jets; low speed for quiet filtration, heating, and daily circulation at reduced energy cost

✅ 115V / 60Hz Power Supply – Standard US household voltage, perfect for portable plug-and-play hot tub installations

✅ 48-Frame Thru-Bolt Design – Compact motor frame for easy fit in tight spa cabinet spaces

✅ 2-Inch MBT Connections – Both suction and discharge ports feature 2″ male buttress thread fittings (3-1/16″ across threads) for broad plumbing compatibility

✅ Side Discharge / Center Suction – Optimized wet end layout with multi-directional volute mounting that can be rotated in 90-degree increments

✅ Carbon Ceramic Seals with Viton Elastomers – Premium seal materials resist heat and chemical degradation for long service life

✅ UL and CSA Certified – Independently tested and certified for safety compliance in the United States and Canada

✅ Multi-Directional Volute Mounting – Rotate the wet end in 90-degree increments to match your existing plumbing configuration

✅ Auto Motor Overheat Protection – Built-in thermal safety shutoff prevents motor damage from overheating

⚙️ Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Manufacturer	Vico / Balboa Water Group
Pump Model	Ultima
Part Number	1054203
Pump Type	Jet Pump (Hydro-Massage)
Motor Power	1.0 HP
Speed Settings	2-Speed
Voltage	115V
Frequency	60 Hz
Amperage (High Speed)	11.9 A
Amperage (Low Speed)	3.5 A
Flow Rate (Max)	225 GPM
Motor Frame	48-Frame Thru-Bolt
Suction Port Size	2″ MBT (3-1/16″ across threads)
Discharge Port Size	2″ MBT (3-1/16″ across threads)
Suction Style	Center
Discharge Style	Side
Seal Type	Carbon Ceramic with Viton Elastomers
Seal Part Number	1213004 (PS-201)
Certifications	UL and CSA
Warranty	1 Year Manufacturer Warranty

⚠️ Note: Amp ratings may vary slightly between motor production runs. Some sources list this pump at 10.3A/3.8A (high/low). The pump you receive will reflect the most current manufacturer specification. Always verify amperage on the motor nameplate before installation.

⚡ Electrical Requirements

Electrical Spec	Requirement
Supply Voltage	115V (110V-120V)
Frequency	60 Hz
Phase	Single
Full Load Amps (High Speed)	11.9 A
Full Load Amps (Low Speed)	3.5 A
Minimum Circuit Breaker	15 A (dedicated circuit recommended; verify local code)
Wire Size (Recommended)	12 AWG minimum (verify with a licensed electrician)

⚠️ IMPORTANT ELECTRICAL SAFETY NOTICES:

• All electrical work must be performed by a licensed electrician in accordance with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local building codes.
• Hot tubs require GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection per NEC requirements.
• A dedicated circuit is required — do not share the circuit with other appliances.
• Verify the voltage on your existing pump’s nameplate before ordering. Using the wrong voltage will damage the motor.
• This pump typically wires directly to the pump receptacle of a spa control pack. Save your existing pump’s cord or connector for use with the new pump, as most pumps ship without a cord.

🔗 Compatibility Guide

Frame and Wet End Configuration:

Spec	This Pump
Frame Type	48-Frame Thru-Bolt
Wet End / Suction Port	2″ MBT – Center
Discharge Port	2″ MBT – Side
Volute Mounting	Multi-directional (rotatable in 90° increments)
Plumbing Connection	Connects to 2″ inner diameter flex hose or pipe

Replaces / Cross-References:

This pump replaces the following Balboa/Vico part numbers:

• 1054203
• 1014253
• 1054013
• VIC1054203
• VIC1054013
• VIC1014253

⚠️ Compatibility Tip: When replacing an existing pump, match the frame type (48-frame), voltage (115V), port sizes (2″ MBT), and discharge style (side). The wet end can be rotated in 90-degree increments to match your existing plumbing orientation.

🛠️ Installation Requirements

Mounting:

Requirement	Specification
Mounting Position	Horizontal
Base	Solid, level, vibration-dampening surface
Ventilation	Adequate clearance around motor for air circulation
Access	Sufficient clearance for maintenance and seal replacement

Plumbing Connections:

Connection	Size
Suction (Intake)	2″ MBT (center face of pump)
Discharge (Output)	2″ MBT (side of wet end)
Thread Measurement	3-1/16″ across outside of threads

Installation Notes:

⚠️ Pump must be installed below water level to ensure flooded suction. Never run the pump dry — this causes immediate seal damage and potential motor failure.

⚠️ Ensure proper grounding and bonding per NEC requirements. GFCI protection is required by code for all hot tub installations.

⚠️ The wet end can be rotated in 90-degree increments by loosening the four long thru-bolts at the back of the motor. Ships in the default discharge-up (12 o’clock) position.

⚠️ The pump may ship with or without a top-mounted capacitor. Ensure sufficient clearance in the spa cabinet (approximately 6″ L x 2.5″ H x 2.25″ W additional space on top of the motor if a capacitor is present).

⚠️ All Victoria (Ultima) pumps have discharge and suction nipples that allow for side-stream flow connections, such as an ozonator venturi. If your hot tub uses these nipples, they must first be drilled out on the new replacement pump before they become active.

🔄 Maintenance Guide

Routine Maintenance:

Task	Frequency	Notes
Check for leaks	Monthly	Inspect around seal plate and union connections
Inspect unions and fittings	Monthly	Tighten if any dripping is observed
Clean strainer/filter basket	As needed	Remove debris to maintain proper flow
Check motor amperage	Annually	Should match nameplate rating (11.9A high / 3.5A low)
Inspect motor vents	Quarterly	Keep clear of debris, dirt, and insulation
Check mounting bolts	Quarterly	Tighten if vibration has loosened them
Verify GFCI function	Monthly	Press test/reset button on GFCI breaker

Warning Signs — Consider Replacing the Pump If:

• Unusual noise from the motor (grinding, screeching, or humming without rotation)
• Water leaking from the seal plate area
• Motor repeatedly trips the circuit breaker
• Noticeably reduced water flow from jets
• Motor overheating or shutting off during normal operation
• Visible corrosion or damage to the wet end

Seal Replacement:

• 📍 Seal Kit Part Number: 1213004 (PS-201)
• 📍 Seal Type: Carbon ceramic with Viton elastomers
• 📍 Shaft Size: 3/4″
• ⚠️ Replace the seal at the first sign of leakage to prevent motor damage

🎛️ Ideal Applications

Application	Suitability	Notes
♨️ Hot tub jet pump	Yes	Primary application — powers hydrotherapy jets on high speed
♨️ Spa filtration and heating	Yes	Low speed provides efficient water circulation for filtration and heating cycles
🛁 Whirlpool bath	Yes	Compatible with whirlpool bath installations using 2″ MBT plumbing
♨️ Plug-and-play portable spas	Yes	115V operation is ideal for portable spa models

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What horsepower is this pump? A: This is a 1.0 HP, 2-speed spa jet pump. It draws 11.9 amps on high speed and 3.5 amps on low speed at 115V.

Q: Will this fit my hot tub? A: This pump has a 48-frame thru-bolt motor with a 2″ MBT wet end. Check your existing pump’s frame type, voltage, and port sizes for compatibility. The wet end can be rotated in 90-degree increments to match your plumbing orientation.

Q: What voltage does this pump require? A: 115V / 60Hz. All electrical installation must be performed by a licensed electrician in accordance with the NEC and local codes.

Q: Does this pump run on 115V or 230V? A: This specific model (1054203) operates on 115V only. Using the wrong voltage will damage the motor. Always verify the voltage on your existing pump’s nameplate before ordering.

Q: Is this a single or dual speed pump? A: This is a 2-speed pump. High speed powers the jets for hydrotherapy. Low speed runs quietly for filtration, heating, and daily water circulation. It can also replace a single-speed 1 HP pump if needed.

Q: What size are the ports? A: Both suction (center intake) and discharge (side) are 2″ MBT (male buttress thread), measuring 3-1/16″ across the outside of the threads. They connect to 2″ inner diameter flex hose or pipe.

Q: What warranty is included? A: This pump includes a 1-year manufacturer warranty from Balboa Water Group. Contact Parts4Tubs for full warranty terms and support.

Q: How do I know if my pump needs replacing? A: Common signs include unusual motor noise (grinding or screeching), water leaking from the seal area, reduced jet flow, the motor repeatedly tripping the circuit breaker, or the motor overheating during normal use.

Q: Do I need a GFCI breaker? A: Yes. GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection is required by the National Electrical Code (NEC) for all hot tub and spa electrical installations in the United States.

Q: Does the pump come with a cord? A: Most Vico Ultima pumps ship without a power cord. You will need to reuse the cord from your existing pump or purchase a compatible replacement cord separately.

Q: Can I rotate the discharge direction? A: Yes. The wet end can be rotated in 90-degree increments (12, 3, 6, or 9 o’clock positions) by loosening the four thru-bolts at the back of the motor. The pump ships with the discharge pointing up (12 o’clock).

🏆 Why Choose the Balboa Vico Ultima 1054203

✅ Proven Performance – 1.0 HP motor delivers strong, consistent jet pressure for an enjoyable spa experience

✅ Reliable Build Quality – Carbon ceramic seals with Viton elastomers and UL/CSA certification ensure long-lasting, safe operation

✅ Whisper-Quiet Low Speed – 2-speed design enables quiet filtration and heating while reducing energy consumption

✅ Easy Replacement – 48-frame thru-bolt mounting, 2″ MBT connections, and rotatable wet end make installation straightforward

✅ Trusted Brand – Backed by Balboa Water Group, a premier manufacturer of hot tub and spa components worldwide

✅ 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty – Covered by Balboa Water Group for peace of mind

🤝 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, impellers, and wet end parts available

✅ Dedicated customer service team

✨ Summary

The Balboa Vico Ultima 1054203 is a reliable, UL/CSA-certified 1.0 HP 2-speed jet pump built for the North American spa market. With 115V/60Hz operation, a compact 48-frame motor, 2″ MBT connections, and carbon ceramic Viton seals, it delivers powerful hydrotherapy on high speed and quiet, energy-efficient filtration on low speed. A proven choice for replacement or upgrade — order yours today from Parts4Tubs.

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:

1. 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.

2. 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)

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. 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.

11. Turn On the Power: Restore power to the hot tub by switching on the circuit breaker or reconnecting the disconnect switch.

12. 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.

13. Refill the Hot Tub: Once you've confirmed that the new pump is functioning properly, refill the hot tub with water.

14. 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.

15. 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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.