🛁 Balboa Vico Ultimax Spa Pump — 4.0 HP 2-Speed 230V 56-Frame 16.4/4.1A 2″ × 2″ Side Discharge (1016196)

Maximum power Ultimax jet pump — 16.4 amps high speed for the most demanding multi-jet spa systems

♨️ Product Overview

The Balboa Vico Ultimax 1016196 is the highest-amperage pump in the Vico Ultimax 2″ × 2″ lineup, drawing 16.4 amps on high speed and 4.1 amps on low speed at 230V/60Hz. Rated at 4.0 HP continuous duty (5.0 HP brake torque horsepower), this dual-speed 56-frame jet pump delivers substantially more power than the standard 12-amp Ultimax models — making it the pump of choice for large spa systems with extensive jet configurations that demand maximum water flow and pressure. Featuring 2″ MBT suction (center) and 2″ MBT discharge (side), this pump connects to standard 2″ spa plumbing and can be found as OEM equipment in many manufacturer brands including Artesian Spas and select Coleman/Maax models. The Vico-Ultrajet range of hydro-massage whirlpool pumps has been specifically designed for the North American market, where quiet running and high performance are essential. The Ultimax wet end delivers flow rates exceeding 325 GPM with a multi-directional volute that can be rotated to one of three positions to match your existing plumbing configuration. All seals are carbon ceramic with Viton elastomers — engineered to endure prolonged heat and chemical exposure. The cool-running 56-frame motor is available with either Century or US Motors brand (Balboa ships whichever is currently in production), and the wet end is secured with 5 bolts for easy rotation and serviceability. This pump ships without cord, unions, or gaskets — reuse your existing pump cord or purchase separately. Manufactured by Balboa Water Group — the world’s largest manufacturer of electronic control systems and components for the spa and hot tub industry. Certified UL, TUV, CSA, and CE/VDE/GS.

⭐ Key Features

✅ 16.4/4.1A at 230V/60Hz — Highest-Power Ultimax — Delivers significantly more amperage than standard 12-amp Ultimax models for maximum jet performance

✅ 4.0 HP Continuous / 5.0 HP Brake Torque — Dual HP rating reflects different rating methods; match by amperage (14-16A high speed) for correct replacement

✅ Dual-Speed Operation — High speed (16.4A) for powerful multi-jet hydrotherapy and low speed (4.1A) for quiet, energy-efficient filtration and circulation

✅ 56-Frame Motor (56Y) — Cool Running — Compact thru-bolt design for reliable high-output performance with reduced heat buildup

✅ 2″ × 2″ MBT Standard Plumbing — Center suction and side discharge with Male Buttress Thread connections (~3-1/16″ OD) for universal 2″ spa plumbing compatibility

✅ Multi-Direction Volute Mounting — Wet end rotates to one of 3 positions to accommodate different plumbing configurations

✅ Carbon Ceramic Seal with Viton Elastomers — Superior seal technology for long-lasting performance under prolonged heat and chemical exposure

✅ Flow Rates Exceeding 325 GPM — Ultimax wet end hydraulics deliver industry-leading flow for maximum jet power

✅ Ozonator Venturi Ports — 3/8″ barb auxiliary ports on both suction and discharge sides for side-stream ozone injection

✅ Drain Plug Included — Positions at 6 and 9 o’clock for complete pump body draining and winterization

✅ UL, TUV, CSA, and CE/VDE/GS Certified — Multi-standard safety certification for North American market compliance

✅ Versatile Wiring — 2-speed pump can also be wired for single-speed (high speed only) operation to replace 1-speed pumps

🔩 Technical specifications

🔧 Exploded diagram and parts

This part belongs to the Balboa Vico Ultimax, 2" & 2-1/2" Suction, 48/56 Frame, Spa Pump assembly. Everything listed below is something we stock for it, and the numbers match the diagram.

Complete pumps

Complete wet ends

Parts that go with this

⚡ Electrical Requirements

⚠️ IMPORTANT ELECTRICAL SAFETY:

All electrical installations must be performed by a licensed electrician in accordance with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local building codes. This 230V pump must be connected to a supply circuit protected by a Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI). A dedicated circuit is required — do not share with other appliances. This pump draws 16.4 amps on high speed — verify your spa pack controller and circuit breaker are rated to handle this amperage. Do NOT install this pump if it exceeds your spa pack’s rated pump output.

💡 Wiring Note: This 2-speed pump can also replace any single 1-speed pump of equivalent amperage. Wire only the high-speed terminal for single-speed operation.

💡 Amp Matching Critical: This pump draws significantly higher amperage (16.4A) than the standard 12A Ultimax models (5235212-S / 5239212-S). Do NOT use this pump as a replacement for a 12A pump — it will exceed the spa pack’s rated output and may trip breakers or damage the control system. Match amperage, not HP.

🔗 Compatibility Guide

Port & Frame Configuration

Specification	Detail
Frame	56 Frame (56Y) Thru-Bolt
Suction	2″ MBT (Center) — ~3-1/16″ OD
Discharge	2″ MBT (Side) — ~3-1/16″ OD
Volute	Multi-directional — rotatable to 3 positions
Drain Plug	6 and 9 o’clock positions
Auxiliary Ports	3/8″ barb on suction and discharge

1016196 vs Other Ultimax 2″ × 2″ Models — AMPERAGE COMPARISON

Model	HP (Marketed)	Amps (High/Low)	Key Difference
5235208-S	2.0 HP	8.8/3.0 A	Entry-level Ultimax
5235210-S	2.5 HP	10/3.5 A	Mid-range
5235212-S	4.0 HP	12.0/3.5 A	Standard high-power
1016196	4.0/5.0 HP	16.4/4.1 A	THIS PUMP — Maximum power

⚠️ CRITICAL: All four pumps above share the same 2″ × 2″ MBT, 56-Frame, Side Discharge physical configuration. The ONLY difference is the motor — specifically the amperage. When replacing an existing pump, match the amperage to your spa pack’s rated output. Installing a higher-amperage pump than your spa pack supports can cause breaker trips, control board damage, or fire hazard.

OEM Spa Brand Applications

Brand	Part Number	Notes	Source
Artesian Spas	21-0053-81	OEM cross-reference	SpaCare
Coleman / Maax	103699	See important note below	SpaCare

⚠️ 103699 Cross-Reference Note — IMPORTANT: SpaCare lists Coleman/Maax part number 103699 as a cross-reference for the 1016196. However, HotTubOutpost, Pool-Spa-Supplies, SpaWorks, and SpaParts123 all list 103699 as a 3.0 HP pump rated at 12.0/3.4A (or 12.0/4.4A for 103699B) — a significantly lower amperage than the 1016196 (16.4/4.1A). The 103699 maps to the 5235212-S (12A version), not the 1016196 (16.4A version). SpaCare’s cross-reference may reflect that the 1016196 can physically fit in place of the 103699, but the amperage is substantially different. Always verify your spa pack can handle 16.4A before using the 1016196 as a replacement for a 103699.

Compatibility Matching Guide

SpaCare recommends: “If your current amp rating (high speed) is between 14-16 amps, this is the correct match.”

Before ordering, verify ALL of the following:

1. ⚡ Amperage — your existing pump must draw 14-16A on high speed at 230V, AND your spa pack must be rated for this amperage
2. ⚡ Voltage — must be 230V / 60Hz
3. 🔩 Frame — 56 frame thru-bolt
4. 💧 Suction size — 2″ MBT (~3-1/16″ outside thread)
5. 💧 Discharge size — 2″ MBT (~3-1/16″ outside thread) side discharge
6. 🎛️ Speed — 2-speed (or use as single-speed replacement — wire high speed only)
7. 📐 Motor base width — verify clearance for potential 6″ wide Century motor base vs standard 4″ US Motors base

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📐 Alternate Part Numbers

Primary Designations

Part Number	Notes	Source
1016196	Current primary Balboa manufacturing SKU	Parts4Tubs, SpaParts+Allied, HotTubOutpost, SpaCare
5235216-S	Balboa pump assembly SKU	SpaCare, SpaGuts, HotTubOutlet
5239216-S	Alternate Balboa SKU (2.5″ suction variant may share this number)	SpaCare
5235216-B	Alternate suffix variant	SpaGuts
1056186	Older Balboa/Vico manufacturing number	SpaCare, SpaGuts

Cross-Referenced / Replaces Part Numbers

Part Number	Notes	Source
34-430-2528W	Balboa Vico Ultimax alternate designation	HotTubOutpost, SpaCare, SpaGuts
34-430-2528N	Balboa Vico alternate designation	SpaCare, SpaGuts
34-110-1008	Balboa cross-reference	SpaCare
15-175-6186	Alternate designation	SpaCare
VIC1016185	Vico prefix form for related model	SpaCare
PUM22000730	Pump assembly number	SpaCare, SpaGuts, USPartsCenter
1056296	Older Balboa manufacturing P/N	SpaCare, SpaGuts
1016251	Balboa variant	SpaCare, SpaGuts
1016215	Balboa variant	SpaGuts, USPartsCenter
1016066	Sold as 6HP by some retailers	SpaCare
905130	Older designation	USPartsCenter

OEM / Spa Brand Cross-References

Part Number	Brand / Context	Notes	Source
103699	Coleman / Maax	CAUTION: 103699 is a 12A/3.4A pump — different amperage. See compatibility note above.	SpaCare
21-0053-81	Artesian Spas	OEM Artesian cross-reference	SpaCare

Related 1-Speed Cross-Reference

Part Number	Notes	Source
1016066	Listed as 5HPR, 1-Speed equivalent — ships as 2-speed, wire high speed only	SpaGuts

Replacement Pump Components (Build Your Own)

Component	Part Number	Notes	Source
Motor	B2235	5HP motor for Ultimax	HotTubOutpost
Wet End	1215007	4HP Vico wet end	HotTubOutpost
Seal Kit	1213004 / PS-201	Carbon ceramic with Viton, OEM replacement	SpaGuts
Impeller	1212008	Green/orange/red/brown variants	USPartsCenter
Volute/Sealplate	1211020	Standard Ultimax volute	USPartsCenter

💡 DIY Assembly: HotTubOutpost notes that motor B2235 and wet end 1215007 can be assembled together with the 4 included through bolts to create this pump assembly.

Lower-Amperage Ultimax Alternatives (Same Physical Configuration, Lower Power)

If your spa pack cannot handle 16.4A, consider these lower-amperage Ultimax models with identical 2″ × 2″ plumbing:

Part Number	HP	Amps (High/Low)	Notes
5235212-S	4.0 HP (12.0/3.5A)	12.0/3.5 A	Standard high-power Ultimax — most common
5235210-S	2.5 HP (10/3.5A)	10/3.5 A	Mid-range
5235208-S	2.0 HP (8.8/3.0A)	8.8/3.0 A	Entry-level

Comparable Non-Ultimax Alternative

Part Number	Brand	HP	Amps	Notes	Source
56WUA400-II	LX Lingxiao	4.0 HP	12.0A high	Lower cost alternative, 2-speed, 230V, 56-frame, 2″ connections — lower amperage than 1016196	HotTubOutpost

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🛠️ Installation Requirements

Mounting

Requirement	Specification
Mounting Position	Horizontal — below water level (flooded suction)
Base	Solid, level, vibration-dampening surface
Motor Foot Type	Type 6
Ventilation	Adequate clearance around motor for cooling airflow
Access	Clearance for maintenance, seal inspection, and wet end rotation

Plumbing

Connection	Size	Notes
Suction	2″ MBT (Center)	~3-1/16″ outside thread diameter
Discharge	2″ MBT (Side)	~3-1/16″ outside thread diameter
Auxiliary Ports	3/8″ barb (1 each on suction and discharge)	For ozone venturi injection

Installation Notes

⚠️ Verify Spa Pack Amperage Rating: This pump draws 16.4 amps on high speed — significantly more than standard 12A Ultimax models. Confirm your spa pack/controller is rated for this amperage before installation. Exceeding the spa pack’s rated pump output can damage the control board or trip the breaker.

⚠️ Motor Base Width: Balboa ships with either Century or US Motors. Century motors may have a 6″ wide base (vs standard 4″ for US Motors). Verify clearance in your equipment compartment before ordering.

⚠️ Wet End Rotation: The wet end can be rotated to one of 3 positions to align the side discharge with your existing plumbing. Loosen the 5 volute bolts, rotate to the desired orientation, and retighten securely. See the downloadable rotation guide in the Downloads section.

⚠️ Never run pump dry — always ensure the pump is primed and filled with water before starting. Running dry causes seal damage and motor overheating.

⚠️ No Cord, Unions, or Gaskets Included: This pump ships without a cord, unions, or gaskets. Reuse your existing pump cord with the correct connector for your spa pack. Purchase unions and O-ring gaskets separately as needed.

⚠️ Mounting Plate Adjustment: If the pump does not completely line up with existing plumbing, remove the mounting plate from the floor of the spa and move it 1/4″ forward or backward so the inlet and discharge plumbing match up.

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

💡 Winterization: Use the drain plug (6 or 9 o’clock positions) to completely drain the pump body during storage to prevent freeze damage.

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🔄 Maintenance Guide

Routine Maintenance

Task	Frequency	Notes
Check for leaks	Monthly	Inspect around seal area, unions, and volute bolts
Inspect plumbing connections	Monthly	Ensure tight fit — no water weeping at suction or discharge
Verify both speeds function	Monthly	Low speed for filtration, high speed for jets
Check amperage draw	Annually	High: ~16.4A, Low: ~4.1A at 230V — should match rating
Inspect motor vents	Quarterly	Keep free of debris and obstructions for cooling
Verify GFCI operation	Monthly	Press test button to confirm proper function
Inspect auxiliary port connections	Quarterly	Check 3/8″ barb fittings for leaks if ozonator is connected
Check mounting bolts and base	Quarterly	Tighten if loose — ensure vibration dampening is intact

Warning Signs — Replace Pump If:

• Unusual noise (grinding, screeching, or humming without rotation)
• Water leaking from the seal area between motor and wet end
• Motor repeatedly trips the circuit breaker or GFCI
• Noticeably reduced water flow or weak jets
• Motor overheating or burning smell
• Motor hums but won’t start (possible capacitor failure)
• Excessive vibration even on solid mounting
• Amperage draw significantly higher or lower than rated values

Seal Information

Detail	Specification
Seal Type	Carbon ceramic with Viton elastomers
Seal Part Number	1213004 / PS-201
Compatibility	Confirmed compatible with 1016196 per SpaGuts shaft seal kit listing

⚠️ Replace seal at first sign of leakage from between the motor and wet end. Continuing to run a leaking pump will damage the motor bearings and windings.

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🎯 Ideal Applications

Application	Suitability	Notes
♨️ Large multi-jet spa systems requiring 14-16A pump	✅ Yes	Maximum power Ultimax for demanding jet configurations
♨️ Artesian Spas (OEM P/N 21-0053-81)	✅ Yes	Confirmed OEM cross-reference
♨️ OEM replacement for spas originally equipped with 16.4A pump	✅ Yes	Direct replacement at same amperage
♨️ Replacement for older Vico Ultimax 5HP designations	✅ Yes	Replaces 1056186, 34-430-2528W, PUM22000730, and related P/Ns
♨️ Replacing 1-speed pump (same amperage)	✅ Yes	Wire high speed only for single-speed operation
♨️ Spas with 12A-rated spa packs	❌ No	16.4A exceeds 12A spa pack rating — use 5235212-S instead
♨️ Spas with 2.5″ suction plumbing	❌ No	This pump has 2″ suction — use 5239212-S or 5239216-S for 2.5″ suction
🛁 Whirlpool bath	❌ No	Too powerful — bath pumps are typically 48-frame, 115V

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is this a 4HP or 5HP pump? A: Both are correct — depending on the rating method. Parts4Tubs lists 4.0 HP. HotTubOutpost lists 5.0 HP (brake torque). SpaGuts lists 5.0 HP continuous / 7.0 BHP. Some retailers sell the related 1016066 as “6HP.” The actual performance is defined by the 16.4A high-speed amperage at 230V, not the HP label. SpaCare recommends: if your current pump’s high-speed amp rating is between 14-16 amps, this is the correct match.

Q: What is the difference between this pump (1016196) and the 5235212-S? A: The amperage is the key difference. The 1016196 draws 16.4/4.1A while the 5235212-S draws 12.0/3.5A. Both share the same 2″ × 2″ MBT, 56-frame, side discharge physical configuration. The 1016196 has a significantly more powerful motor. Do NOT interchange these pumps without verifying your spa pack can handle the amperage difference.

Q: My existing pump is labeled 12 amps. Can I upgrade to this 16.4A pump? A: Only if your spa pack/controller is rated to handle 16.4 amps on the pump circuit. Installing a higher-amperage pump than your spa pack supports can cause breaker trips, control board damage, or fire hazard. Check your spa pack’s rated pump output before upgrading. If your spa pack is rated for 12A, use the 5235212-S instead.

Q: Is a cord included? A: No. This pump ships without a cord, unions, or gaskets. Reuse your existing pump cord, or purchase a new one with the correct connector for your spa pack. Save your old pump’s cord before removing the old pump.

Q: What size are the ports? A: Both suction (center) and discharge (side) are 2″ MBT (Male Buttress Thread) — approximately 3-1/16″ outside thread diameter.

Q: Can I rotate the discharge direction? A: Yes. The wet end can be rotated to one of 3 positions using the 5-bolt volute assembly. See the downloadable rotation guide in the Downloads section.

Q: Which motor brand will I receive — Century or US Motors? A: Balboa ships whichever motor is currently in production. US Motors has a standard 4″ wide base (3″ on-center mounting). Century may have a wider 6″ base (3″ and 5″ on-center mounting). Contact Parts4Tubs to verify current motor brand if equipment compartment space is tight.

Q: What spa brands use this pump? A: This pump is confirmed as OEM equipment in Artesian Spas (P/N 21-0053-81). SpaCare also cross-references Coleman/Maax P/N 103699, though the 103699 is actually a 12A pump — the cross-reference may indicate physical fit rather than exact amp match. Always verify amperage compatibility with your specific spa model.

Q: Can this replace a single-speed pump? A: Yes. This 2-speed pump can replace any single 1-speed pump with equivalent amperage (~16A at 230V) by wiring only the high-speed terminal.

Q: What is the shaft seal part number? A: The OEM replacement shaft seal kit is 1213004 / PS-201 (carbon ceramic with Viton elastomers). This seal is confirmed compatible with the 1016196 per SpaGuts.

Q: What warranty is included? A: 1-year manufacturer warranty from Balboa Water Group (confirmed by Parts4Tubs and SpaCare). SpaGuts lists a 2-year limited warranty for their fulfillment of the 5235216-S. Contact Parts4Tubs for specific warranty 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.

Q: What are the approximate dimensions? A: Approximately 16.02″ long × 8.83″ high × 6.5″ wet end diameter (from SpaGuts). Actual dimensions may vary slightly depending on motor brand. Contact Parts4Tubs to verify if space is limited

🏆 Why Choose the Balboa Vico Ultimax 1016196

✅ Maximum Power Ultimax — 16.4A high speed delivers the highest amperage in the Ultimax 2″ × 2″ lineup for demanding multi-jet applications

✅ 325+ GPM Flow Capacity — Industry-leading wet end hydraulics for maximum jet pressure and water volume

✅ Multi-Direction Volute — 3-position rotation with 5-bolt assembly for flexible plumbing alignment

✅ Carbon Ceramic / Viton Seal Technology — Superior chemical and heat resistance for extended seal life (P/N 1213004)

✅ UL, TUV, CSA, CE/VDE/GS Certified — Comprehensive multi-standard safety certification

✅ Dual-Speed Versatility — High speed for powerful jets and low speed for quiet, energy-efficient filtration

✅ Cool-Running 56-Frame Motor — Thru-bolt design with reduced heat buildup for reliable long-term performance

✅ OEM Replacement — Direct replacement for Artesian Spas (21-0053-81) and numerous Balboa/Vico part numbers

✅ Drain Plug & Ozonator Ports — Winterization-ready with built-in 3/8″ barb ozone venturi capability

✅ Serviceable Components — Individual parts (motor B2235, wet end 1215007, seal 1213004, impeller 1212008) available for targeted repairs

🤝 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

✅ Compatible pump cords, unions, seals, and replacement parts available

✅ Dedicated customer service team

💫 Summary

The Balboa Vico Ultimax 1016196 is the maximum-power pump in the Ultimax 2″ × 2″ lineup — a 4.0/5.0 HP dual-speed, 230V/60Hz jet pump drawing 16.4 amps on high speed and 4.1 amps on low speed with a 56-frame (56Y) thru-bolt motor. This is significantly more powerful than the standard 12A Ultimax (5235212-S) and should only be used in spa systems with controllers rated for 14-16A pump output. Features 2″ MBT center suction and 2″ MBT side discharge (~3-1/16″ OD threads), multi-directional volute with 3-position rotation (5-bolt assembly), carbon ceramic seals with Viton elastomers (P/N 1213004), 3/8″ barb auxiliary ports for ozonator venturi, drain plug for winterization, and flow rates exceeding 325 GPM. Approximate dimensions: 16.02″ L × 8.83″ H × 6.5″ wet end diameter. Motor may be Century or US Motors brand. Certified UL, TUV, CSA, CE/VDE/GS. Cord, unions, and gaskets not included. OEM replacement for Artesian Spas (21-0053-81) and numerous Balboa/Vico designations including 5235216-S, 1056186, 34-430-2528W, PUM22000730, 1056296, and 1016251. Manufactured by Balboa Water Group. 1-year manufacturer warranty. Available now at Parts4Tubs with fast US shipping and expert compatibility support.

Find the right pump or motor

Enter what is printed on the label of the one you are replacing. Anything that differs is shown with the difference spelled out, so you can judge it for yourself.

EitherComplete pumpMotor only

Make or modelHorsepowerVoltageAny115V230VSpeedAny1-speed2-speedVariable speedAmpsPort size (pumps)Any3/4 in1 in1-1/2 in2 in2-1/2 inFrame (motors)Any48Y48 frame56Y56J56C56 frame

Clear

Port size is the plumbing thread, not the pipe — a 2 inch union measures about 3 inches across the male thread. Amps are compared to within half an amp, since published figures round differently between motor brands. Voltage is never treated as a near miss: a 115V motor is not one step from a 230V supply. Anything whose page does not publish a figure you entered is left out rather than offered with a caveat — search it by name to see it anyway.

**PLEASE READ THIS IS IMPORTANT**

When selecting a Balboa Ultimax or Vico Ultimax pump, you must pay careful attention to the wet end. The is the black part on the end of the pump which connects to the plumbing and has the impellor inside.

Balboa have made this pump under various OEM agreements, for the likes of CalSpa amongst others who have then included it in their hot tubs.

Whereas normally with a pump, you can select the voltage, horsepower and frame size, it is a little more difficult with this brand. There are different types of wet end for this model and the discharge (the part that connects to the pipework that flows to your jets) can be in a different position. Normally, you would choose from either side discharge, or center discharge but "helpfully" (not at all!) Balboa has a different offset for the side discharge on this model. THIS IS NOT STANDARD.

If you get this wrong, the part will not fit.

Please take a look at the two different examples below. Both of these are for a 2HP pump but you can see they look totally different. You will also notice that the position of the discharge is roughly 1" different. The one on the left is offset around 2.5" and the one on the right is offset around 1.5".

If you are looking to replace a pump and you need a non-standard wet end, you will need to buy a new pump AND the wet end that you need. Please note, in some cases you will just need to change the Volute (impeller cover)

The standard model comes already fitted to the pump whereas the non-standard model will need to be purchased separately, and you will need to change this over. 

If you are comfortable enough to switch out a pump, changing a wet end over should not be a problem for you.

If you are not sure, please do get in touch.

 

 

Unions and pump cords: pick the union size that matches your pump's ports (see the size chart below), and a 4-wire cord for a 2-speed pump.

Hot Tub Pump Collar & Union Size Chart

Imperial & Metric Specifications

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

The union "size" (1.5", 2", 2.5") is nominal and doesn't correspond to any actual measurement.

Collar size is measured from thread tip to thread tip on the pump outlet.

Most hot tub pumps use Female Buttress Thread (FBT) - 98% of applications.

O-ring gaskets may vary between manufacturers - measure your existing gasket for accuracy.

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
• Screwdriver
• New union O-rings
• A strap wrench, only if a union nut is stuck
• PVC primer and cement, only if you are gluing in new tailpieces

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. Unscrew the union nuts by hand. If one is stuck, use a strap wrench rather than a pipe wrench, which can crack the nut. 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. Pump unions use buttress threads that seal on an O-ring, so fit new O-rings and hand-tighten the nuts. Do not use thread tape, pipe dope or sealant on them.

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, hand-tightening the union nuts. If you are gluing in new PVC tailpieces, use PVC primer and cement on those joints.

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.