🔧 Little Giant PES-130-PW Magnetic Drive Submersible Pump – 130 GPH, 11W, 6-Ft Cord

Whisper-quiet, oil-free magnetic drive fountain pump with adjustable flow control for water features and displays

📋 Product Overview

The Little Giant PES-130-PW (Part No. 566716) is a compact magnetic drive submersible pump from the PES Series manufactured by Little Giant, a division of Franklin Electric. This energy-efficient wet rotor pump delivers up to 130 gallons per hour at 1 foot of lift using only 11 watts of power — making it one of the most economical continuous-duty pumps available for small to medium water features, statuary fountains, tabletop displays, and hydroponic systems.

Unlike conventional motor-driven pumps, the PES-130-PW uses magnetic drive (wet rotor) technology, which eliminates the need for mechanical shaft seals and motor oil. The impeller is magnetically coupled to the motor through the pump housing, creating a completely sealed, oil-free design that prevents any risk of oil contamination in your water feature. This makes it ideal for decorative fountains, pond applications, and recirculating systems where water purity matters.

The pump features a built-in adjustable flow control valve that allows you to fine-tune the output from 30 GPH to 130 GPH, customizing the look and sound of your fountain without external valves. The outer case is constructed of durable ABS plastic filled with a special heat transfer epoxy for excellent thermal management. A ceramic shaft provides extended service life, while the nylon impeller and polypropylene screen resist corrosion. With a 1/2-inch barbed discharge (plus 5/8-inch and 3/4-inch barbed adapters included), screened inlet, 6-foot power cord, and a 5.5-foot maximum shut-off head, the PES-130-PW handles medium statuary fountains up to 130 gallons. Backed by a 3-year manufacturer warranty.

⭐ Key Features

✅ Magnetic Drive (Wet Rotor) Technology – Oil-free, seal-less design eliminates risk of oil contamination and mechanical seal failure for ultra-reliable continuous operation

✅ 130 GPH Maximum Flow at 1 Foot – Sufficient for medium statuary fountains, tabletop features, and water displays up to 130 gallons

✅ Ultra-Low 11W Power Consumption – Draws only 0.23 amps; one of the most energy-efficient pump options for continuous-duty fountain operation

✅ Built-In Adjustable Flow Control Valve – Easily adjust output from 30 GPH to 130 GPH to customize your fountain’s flow and appearance without external valves

✅ Ceramic Shaft – Superior wear resistance compared to standard metal shafts for extended motor life

✅ Corrosion-Resistant ABS Construction – Durable ABS housing, cover, volute, and screen stand up to continuous submersed operation in fresh water

✅ Epoxy Encapsulated Motor – Sealed in special heat transfer epoxy for complete moisture protection and efficient thermal dissipation

✅ Multiple Discharge Adapters Included – 1/2-inch barbed discharge with 5/8-inch and 3/4-inch barbed adapters for flexible tubing connections

✅ Screened Inlet – Protects the impeller from debris ingestion; easy to remove for cleaning

✅ Ultra-Compact Design – Measures just 3-1/8″ × 3-1/4″ × 2-1/4″ — fits inside the smallest fountain basins and tabletop features

✅ Oil-Free Operation – No motor oil means zero risk of oil leaking into fountain water, ponds, or hydroponic systems

✅ 3-Year Manufacturer Warranty – Industry-leading warranty backed by Franklin Electric’s nationwide support network

⚙️ Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Manufacturer	Little Giant (Franklin Electric)
Model	PES-130-PW
Part Number	566716
Series	PES Series (Magnetic Drive)
Pump Type	Submersible Magnetic Drive (Wet Rotor)
Motor Type	Epoxy Encapsulated, Magnetic Drive
Voltage	115V
Frequency	60 Hz
Phase	Single
Amperage	0.23 A
Wattage	11W
Flow Rate (at 1 ft)	130 GPH (2.2 GPM)
Flow Rate (at 3 ft)	85 GPH
Adjustable Flow Range	30 – 130 GPH
Shut-Off Head	5.5 ft
Discharge	1/2″ Barbed (top discharge)
Included Adapters	5/8″ and 3/4″ barbed adapters
Inlet	Screened
Impeller Material	Nylon
Shaft Material	Ceramic
Housing / Cover	ABS Plastic
Volute / Screen	ABS / Polypropylene
Motor Encapsulation	Heat Transfer Epoxy in Polyester/ABS Case
Cord Length	6 ft
Dimensions (L × W × H)	3-1/4″ × 2-1/4″ × 3-1/8″
Operation	Submersible Only, Continuous Duty
Oil	Oil-Free
Speed	Single Speed (with adjustable flow valve)
Warranty	3 Years

🔌 Electrical Requirements

Electrical Spec	Requirement
Supply Voltage	115V
Frequency	60 Hz
Phase	Single
Amperage	0.23 A
Wattage	11W
Cord Length	6 ft
Cord Type	3-prong grounded plug

⚠️ IMPORTANT:

All electrical connections must comply with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and all applicable local codes and regulations.

GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection is required for all outdoor water feature, pond, and fountain installations per NEC requirements.

The pump draws only 0.23 amps (11 watts), which is extremely low. However, it must still be connected to a properly grounded outlet with GFCI protection. Do not use damaged extension cords.

At 11 watts of continuous operation, this pump consumes approximately 0.264 kWh per day, or about 8 kWh per month — less than most household light bulbs.

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📊 Performance Curve Data

Lift Height	Flow Rate (GPH)	Flow Rate (LPH)
1 ft	130	492
3 ft	85	322
5.5 ft (shut-off)	0	0

💡 Flow Control: The built-in adjustable valve allows you to reduce the flow from the maximum of 130 GPH down to approximately 30 GPH at 1 foot of lift, giving you precise control over your fountain’s appearance and sound level.

🔗 Compatibility Guide

This Pump:

📍 Discharge: 1/2″ Barbed (top discharge) 📍 Included Adapters: 5/8″ and 3/4″ barbed 📍 Tubing Compatibility: Accepts 1/2″ ID, 5/8″ ID, or 3/4″ ID flexible tubing 📍 Voltage: 115V / 60Hz only 📍 Operation: Submersible use only

Discharge Connection Options:

The 1/2-inch barbed discharge is located on top of the pump and connects directly to 1/2-inch ID flexible vinyl or rubber tubing. The included 5/8-inch and 3/4-inch barbed adapters allow connection to larger tubing sizes when greater flow capacity or reduced friction loss is desired. Simply press-fit the appropriate adapter onto the discharge and secure with a hose clamp if needed.

Complete PES Series Lineup:

Part Number	Model	Flow @ 1 ft	Watts	Amps	Cord
566713	PES-40-PW	45 GPH	2.5W	0.03 A	6 ft
566714	PES-80-PW	77 GPH	8W	0.14 A	6 ft
566716	PES-130-PW (this pump)	130 GPH	11W	0.23 A	6 ft
566717	PES-290-PW	300 GPH	23W	0.40 A	6 ft
566718	PES-380-PW	350 GPH	33W	0.64 A	15 ft
566720	PES-700-PW	725 GPH	57W	0.75 A	15 ft
566721	PES-800-PW	875 GPH	90W	0.95 A	15 ft
566722	PES-1000-PW	1,150 GPH	98W	1.40 A	15 ft

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🛠️ Installation Requirements

Submersible Installation:

Requirement	Specification
Positioning	Fully submerged in water
Mounting	Place on flat, stable surface at bottom of fountain basin
Discharge	Top discharge — route tubing upward to fountain head or ornament
Orientation	Upright (discharge port facing up)
Minimum Water Depth	Pump must be fully submerged during operation

Installation Notes:

⚠️ This pump is designed exclusively for submersible use. Do not operate above water level or in air.

⚠️ Connect all tubing and adapters to the discharge before submerging the pump. Select the appropriate barbed adapter (1/2″, 5/8″, or 3/4″) for your tubing size.

⚠️ Use the built-in flow control valve to adjust the output after installation. Turn the valve to reduce flow from 130 GPH down to approximately 30 GPH as desired.

⚠️ Keep the inlet screen in place during operation to prevent debris from reaching the impeller. Clean the screen regularly.

⚠️ For outdoor installations, ensure GFCI protection is in place per NEC requirements.

⚠️ Position the pump away from the bottom drain of the fountain basin to prevent the intake screen from being blocked by debris accumulation.

⚠️ Not recommended for fuel oil transfer, aquariums, or swimming pool applications.

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🔄 Maintenance Guide

Routine Maintenance:

Task	Frequency	Notes
Clean inlet screen	Monthly	Remove and rinse to clear debris and mineral buildup
Inspect discharge tubing	Monthly	Check barb connections for leaks or algae buildup
Check power cord	Monthly	Inspect for damage, cuts, or exposed wiring
Clean pump exterior	Quarterly	Remove mineral scale and algae from housing
Verify flow control valve	Quarterly	Ensure valve adjusts smoothly through full range
Inspect impeller	Every 6 months	Remove volute to check for debris or calcium deposits
Verify GFCI function	Monthly	Test GFCI for outdoor installations
Check water level	Weekly	Ensure pump remains fully submerged at all times

Warning Signs — Service or Replace Pump If:

• Motor fails to start or hums without pumping
• Noticeable reduction in flow rate despite clean screen and fully open valve
• Unusual noise (rattling, grinding, or clicking from impeller area)
• Power cord or plug shows visible damage
• Pump overheats during normal submersed operation
• Impeller spins freely but does not move water (magnetic coupling failure)

Winterization:

If the pump will be stored or the water feature drained during winter months, remove the pump from the water, drain completely, and clean thoroughly. Remove the inlet screen and clean the impeller chamber. Store the pump in a dry location above freezing temperatures. Do not allow water to remain inside the pump during freezing conditions.

Ceramic Shaft Care:

The ceramic shaft provides superior wear resistance but is more brittle than metal shafts. Avoid dropping the pump on hard surfaces, and handle with care when removing for cleaning or storage.

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🎯 Ideal Applications

Application	Suitability	Notes
💧 Tabletop fountains	✅ Yes	Ultra-compact size and adjustable flow perfect for small features
💧 Medium statuary fountains	✅ Yes	Primary designed application; handles features up to 130 gallons
💧 Indoor water displays	✅ Yes	Whisper-quiet magnetic drive operation ideal for indoor environments
💧 Outdoor decorative fountains	✅ Yes	Corrosion-resistant ABS construction withstands outdoor use
💧 Small pond fountains	✅ Yes	Continuous duty for pond fountain nozzles and bubblers
💧 Hydroponic systems	✅ Yes	Oil-free operation safe for ebb-and-flow and drip irrigation systems
💧 Small waterfalls	✅ Yes	130 GPH suitable for small cascading features up to 3 ft lift
💧 Water recirculation	✅ Yes	Continuous duty with adjustable flow for closed-loop systems
💧 Hot tub draining	❌ No	Insufficient flow rate for practical hot tub draining
♨️ Spa jet pump	❌ No	Not designed for jet pump applications
💧 Aquarium use	❌ No	Not recommended by manufacturer
💧 Swimming pool use	❌ No	Not recommended by manufacturer
💧 Fuel oil transfer	❌ No	Not recommended by manufacturer

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much water can this pump move? A: At 1 foot of lift, the pump delivers 130 GPH (2.2 GPM). At 3 feet, it delivers 85 GPH. The built-in flow control valve allows you to reduce flow down to approximately 30 GPH. Maximum shut-off head is 5.5 feet.

Q: What is a magnetic drive pump? A: A magnetic drive (wet rotor) pump uses magnets to couple the motor to the impeller through the pump housing, eliminating the need for mechanical shaft seals and motor oil. This creates a completely sealed, oil-free design that is extremely reliable and prevents any risk of oil contamination.

Q: How much does it cost to run this pump? A: The PES-130-PW uses only 11 watts. Running 24/7, it consumes about 8 kWh per month. At a typical US electricity rate of $0.15/kWh, the operating cost is approximately $1.20 per month.

Q: How do I adjust the flow? A: The pump includes a built-in adjustable flow control valve. After installing and submerging the pump, turn the valve to reduce output from the maximum of 130 GPH down to approximately 30 GPH. This allows you to customize the height and appearance of your fountain stream.

Q: What size tubing does this pump connect to? A: The 1/2-inch barbed discharge connects directly to 1/2-inch ID tubing. Included 5/8-inch and 3/4-inch barbed adapters allow connection to larger tubing sizes.

Q: Is this pump safe for fish ponds? A: The oil-free magnetic drive design means there is no risk of oil contamination. However, the manufacturer does not specifically recommend the PES Series for aquarium use. For dedicated fish pond pumps, consult Little Giant’s pond pump lineup.

Q: How quiet is this pump? A: Magnetic drive pumps are among the quietest pump types available. The PES-130-PW produces very little noise during operation, making it ideal for indoor tabletop fountains, bedroom water features, and quiet environments.

Q: Can I use this pump outdoors year-round? A: The pump can be used outdoors during non-freezing conditions. In winter, if temperatures drop below freezing, remove the pump from the water feature, drain it completely, and store indoors until spring. Freezing water inside the pump can crack the housing.

Q: What is the difference between the PES-130-PW and the PE-1? A: The PES-130-PW is a magnetic drive (wet rotor) pump with no shaft seal and no oil, drawing only 11 watts. The PE-1 is an epoxy encapsulated direct-drive pump with a triple lip nitrile shaft seal, drawing 36 watts for 170 GPH. The PES-130-PW is more energy efficient and oil-free, while the PE-1 offers slightly higher flow and head pressure.

Q: How long will the ceramic shaft last? A: Ceramic shafts are highly wear-resistant and typically outlast standard metal shafts in continuous-duty fountain applications. Under normal submersed operation, the ceramic shaft should last for the lifetime of the pump.

Q: Do I need GFCI protection? A: Yes, for all outdoor installations. GFCI protection is required by the National Electrical Code (NEC) for any electrical connection near water features, ponds, or fountains.

📥 Downloads & Resources

📄 PES Series Spec Sheet – Complete specifications, performance curves, and dimensions for the full PES lineup

📄 PES Series Installation Manual – Installation instructions, wiring, troubleshooting, and maintenance

🏆 Why Choose the Little Giant PES-130-PW

✅ Oil-Free Magnetic Drive – Zero risk of oil contamination; safe for decorative fountains, pond features, and hydroponic systems where water purity matters

✅ Ultra-Energy Efficient – Just 11 watts means approximately $1.20/month in electricity for 24/7 operation — a fraction of the cost of conventional pumps

✅ Adjustable Flow Control – Built-in valve lets you dial in the perfect flow from 30-130 GPH without buying external valves or reducers

✅ Whisper-Quiet Operation – Magnetic drive technology produces virtually no noise, ideal for indoor features, bedrooms, and quiet spaces

✅ Ceramic Shaft Durability – Superior wear resistance outlasts standard metal shafts for extended pump life

✅ Ultra-Compact Footprint – At just 3-1/4″ × 2-1/4″ × 3-1/8″, fits inside the smallest tabletop and statuary fountain basins

✅ Proven Little Giant Quality – Backed by Franklin Electric’s 80+ years of pump manufacturing expertise

✅ 3-Year Manufacturer Warranty – Industry-leading warranty coverage for complete peace of mind

🤝 Why Buy From Parts4Tubs

✅ Fast shipping across the United States

✅ Expert advice from pool, spa, and water equipment specialists

✅ Competitive pricing

✅ Full warranty support

✅ Hassle-free returns

✅ Complete PES Series lineup available

✅ Dedicated customer service team

💧 Summary

The Little Giant PES-130-PW (566716) is a magnetic drive (wet rotor) submersible pump delivering 130 GPH at 1 foot of lift with a 5.5-foot shut-off head using only 11 watts of power. This oil-free, seal-less design features a built-in adjustable flow control valve (30-130 GPH), ceramic shaft, nylon impeller, ABS corrosion-resistant housing, epoxy encapsulated motor, 1/2-inch barbed discharge with included 5/8-inch and 3/4-inch adapters, screened inlet, and 6-foot cord. Measuring just 3-1/4″ × 2-1/4″ × 3-1/8″, the PES-130-PW is ideal for tabletop fountains, statuary features, indoor water displays, small ponds, and hydroponic systems. Backed by a 3-year warranty. Order today from Parts4Tubs for fast US shipping and expert support.

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.