💧 Little Giant 6EC-CIM Submersible Sump & Effluent Pump — 1/3 HP 115V 53 GPM Manual | 506802

Heavy-duty continuous-duty sump pump for hot tub equipment areas, basements, and dewatering applications

♨️ Product Overview

The Little Giant 6EC-CIM (506802) is a 1/3 HP submersible sump and light effluent pump from the 6EC Series by Little Giant (Franklin Electric). This is a general-purpose sump pump — not a spa circulation pump — but it plays a critical role in hot tub installations where a sump pit or equipment bay needs to be kept dry. Water from leaks, condensation, rainwater intrusion, or drain-down collects beneath and around hot tub equipment, and a reliable sump pump prevents water damage, mold, and electrical hazards.

Built on Little Giant’s proven 6E platform, the 6EC-CIM delivers 53 GPM at 5 feet of head while drawing only 5.0 amps — a significant improvement over the discontinued 6EN series it replaces (which drew 6.0 amps for only 50 GPM). The permanent split capacitor (PSC) motor runs cooler and more efficiently than standard induction motors, and is rated for continuous duty operation.

The pump features an epoxy-coated cast iron body with a polypropylene base and stainless steel fasteners for corrosion resistance. It handles clear water and effluent gray water with semi-solids up to 1/2 inch, making it suitable for sump pits that may collect debris. The nitrile mechanical shaft seal with carbon and ceramic faces provides reliable leak protection. With a maximum liquid temperature of 140°F (60°C), it can handle warm water from hot tub drain-down or leaks.

This is the manual (non-automatic) version with a 20-foot power cord and NEMA 5-15P grounded plug. “Manual” means the pump runs whenever it’s plugged in — there is no built-in float switch. For automatic on/off operation, choose the 6EC-CIA-SFS (506807) with integral snap-action float switch, or the 6EC-CIA-RF (506803) with piggyback mechanical float switch.

⚠️ THIS IS A SUMP PUMP — NOT A SPA CIRCULATION PUMP. The 6EC-CIM is designed to remove water from sump pits, equipment bays, and basements. It is NOT designed to circulate water through spa plumbing, jets, or heating systems. For spa water circulation, use a dedicated circulation pump (Waterway, Laing, Grundfos, LX, etc.).

⚠️ NOT FOR POTABLE WATER. This pump is not rated for drinking water applications.

✨ Key Features

• ✅ 1/3 HP PSC Motor — Permanent split capacitor design for lower amp draw, cooler running, and longer life
• ✅ 53 GPM at 5 ft Head — High flow rate for fast sump pit evacuation
• ✅ 28 ft Maximum Shut-Off Head — Pumps water up to 28 feet vertically
• ✅ Only 5.0 Amps — Energy-efficient, lower current draw than predecessors
• ✅ 600 Watts — Efficient power consumption for continuous duty
• ✅ Continuous Duty Rated — Designed to run 24/7 in sump applications
• ✅ Handles 1/2″ Solids — Passes semi-solid debris without clogging
• ✅ 140°F (60°C) Max Liquid Temperature — Handles warm water from hot tub drain-down
• ✅ Epoxy-Coated Cast Iron Body — Heavy-duty corrosion-resistant construction
• ✅ Polypropylene Base — Chemical-resistant thermoplastic base
• ✅ Stainless Steel Fasteners — Corrosion protection throughout
• ✅ Nitrile Mechanical Shaft Seal — Carbon and ceramic faces for reliable sealing
• ✅ Thermal Overload Protection — Auto-resets after overheating
• ✅ 20-Foot Power Cord — NEMA 5-15P grounded plug, ready to use
• ✅ 1-1/2″ FNPT Discharge — Standard pipe thread connection
• ✅ cCSAus Listed — Safety certified for US and Canada

🔩 Technical specifications

🔄 6EC Series Variant Guide

The Little Giant 6EC Series comes in several configurations. All share the same 1/3 HP PSC motor and 53 GPM performance. The difference is switch type and cord length:

Part Number	Model	Switch Type	Cord Length	Operation
506802	6EC-CIM	Manual (no switch)	20 ft	This Pump — runs when plugged in
506801	6EC-CIM	Manual (no switch)	10 ft	Same pump, shorter cord
506803	6EC-CIA-RF	Piggyback Mechanical Float	10 ft	Auto on/off — float switch
506804	6EC-CIA-SFS	Integral Snap-Action Float	20 ft	Auto on/off — built-in float
506807	6EC-CIA-SFS	Integral Snap-Action Float	10 ft	Auto on/off — built-in float

Which Version Do You Need?

Manual (506802 / 506801): Runs continuously when plugged in. Use when you control the pump externally (timer, relay, spa control system) or when you want the pump running at all times. The 506802 (20-foot cord) gives more flexibility for outlet placement.

Automatic — Snap-Action Float (506804 / 506807): Built-in float switch turns pump on when water rises and off when water drops. Best for unattended sump pits where water level varies.

Automatic — Piggyback Float (506803): External piggyback float switch plugs between pump and outlet. Allows you to bypass the float and run manually if needed.

🛡️ What the 6EC-CIM Replaces

The 506802 is the current-production replacement for these discontinued Little Giant models:

Discontinued Part	Old Series	What Changed
506611	6EN-CIM (20′ cord)	6EC has better flow (53 vs 50 GPM), lower amps (5.0 vs 6.0A), higher head (28 vs 22 ft)
506711	6EN Series	Replaced by 506611, then by 506802
506612	6EN Series	Replaced by 506802

The 6EC is a direct physical replacement — same footprint, same 1-1/2″ FNPT discharge, same 1/3 HP — but with improved performance across all metrics.

🔧 Parts and fittings for this

🛠️ Installation Requirements

Sump Basin

Requirement	Specification
Minimum Basin Diameter	18 inches
Basin Material	Any standard sump basin or pit
Mounting	Place pump on flat, level surface at bottom of basin
Orientation	Vertical — pump must sit upright

Plumbing

Connection	Size
Discharge	1-1/2″ FNPT
Pipe Material	PVC, CPVC, or other standard pipe
Check Valve	Recommended to prevent backflow

Installation Notes

⚠️ Pump must be fully submerged or have water level above intake before operation — do NOT run dry.

⚠️ Install in a ventilated area to allow heat dissipation from the motor.

⚠️ Use a check valve on the discharge line to prevent water flowing back into the sump when pump stops.

⚠️ GFCI protection is required by the NEC for all electrical equipment installed near water, including sump pits near hot tubs.

⚠️ This is a manual pump — it has no built-in float switch. It will run continuously when plugged in. For automatic operation, install an external float switch or choose the 6EC-CIA-SFS (506807) automatic version.

⚠️ Not for potable water and not for pool recirculation per manufacturer specifications.

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🔧 Maintenance Guide

Routine Maintenance:

Task	Frequency	Notes
Check pump operation	Monthly	Verify pump starts and evacuates water
Inspect discharge line	Monthly	Ensure no blockages or kinks
Clean intake screen/strainer	Quarterly	Remove debris buildup
Check power cord	Quarterly	Inspect for damage, cuts, or corrosion
Inspect sump basin	Quarterly	Remove accumulated sediment and debris
Verify GFCI function	Monthly	Test GFCI by pressing “Test” button
Full pump inspection	Annually	Check seal, bearings, impeller condition

Warning Signs — Replace Pump If:

• Motor hums but does not pump water
• Reduced flow rate or slow sump evacuation
• Unusual grinding or scraping noises
• Water leaking from motor housing or seal area
• Motor trips breaker or GFCI repeatedly
• Excessive vibration during operation
• Motor runs but overheats frequently (thermal protection cycling)

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💧 Performance Data

Head (ft)	Flow Rate
0 ft	Maximum flow
5 ft	53 GPM (3,180 GPH)
10 ft	~38 GPM (estimated from curve)
28 ft	0 GPM (shut-off)

⚠️ NOTE: Only the 53 GPM @ 5 ft and 28 ft shut-off figures are confirmed by the manufacturer. Intermediate flow rates are approximate. Refer to the official 6EC Series spec sheet for the complete performance curve.

🎯 Ideal Applications

Application	Suitability	Notes
♨️ Hot tub sump pit	✅ Yes — Primary Use	Removes water from equipment bays, leak collection, and drain-down
♨️ Spa equipment area dewatering	✅ Yes	Keeps equipment compartments dry to prevent damage
♨️ Hot tub drain-down assist	✅ Yes	140°F max temp handles warm spa water
♨️ Basement sump	✅ Yes	Designed for this application
♨️ General dewatering	✅ Yes	Construction sites, flooded areas, standing water
♨️ Light effluent / gray water	✅ Yes	Handles effluent with up to 1/2″ semi-solids
♨️ Water transfer	✅ Yes	Moving water between tanks, containers, or locations
♨️ Fountain / water feature	✅ Yes	Per customer reviews — used successfully in fountains
♨️ Lift station	✅ Yes	Designed for basin and lift station applications
🛁 Spa water circulation	❌ No — Wrong Pump Type	Use dedicated circulation pumps (Waterway, Laing, Grundfos, LX)
🛁 Jet pump replacement	❌ No — Wrong Pump Type	Use proper jet pumps
🛁 Potable water	❌ No	Not rated for drinking water
🛁 Pool recirculation	❌ No	Per manufacturer — not for pool applications

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does “Manual” (CIM) mean? A: The 6EC-CIM runs continuously whenever it’s plugged in. It has no built-in float switch for automatic on/off. You control it by plugging in or unplugging, or by adding an external switch, timer, or float switch. For automatic operation, choose the 6EC-CIA-SFS (506807) with integral snap-action float.

Q: Why would I want a manual pump instead of automatic? A: Manual pumps are preferred when: (1) you want the pump controlled by a spa control system or external relay, (2) you need continuous run in a constantly-filling sump, (3) you want to add your own float switch with specific on/off levels, or (4) you need a simple plug-in-and-run solution for temporary dewatering.

Q: Is this pump suitable for a sump pit under my hot tub? A: Yes. The 6EC-CIM is an excellent choice for hot tub sump pits and equipment bays. It handles water up to 140°F, passes small debris, runs on standard 115V, and is rated for continuous duty. The 20-foot cord gives you flexibility for outlet placement. For unattended sump pits, consider the automatic version (506807) with float switch.

Q: How much water can it move? A: 53 GPM (3,180 gallons per hour) at 5 feet of head. Maximum shut-off head is 28 feet.

Q: What size sump basin do I need? A: Minimum 18-inch diameter basin per the manufacturer.

Q: What is the discharge port size? A: 1-1/2″ FNPT (Female National Pipe Thread). Standard pipe fittings thread directly into the discharge port.

Q: Can it handle debris? A: Yes. The 6EC-CIM handles spherical semi-solids up to 1/2 inch (12.7 mm). This includes small stones, sand, and organic debris commonly found in sump pits.

Q: What temperature water can it handle? A: Up to 140°F (60°C). This is well above normal hot tub operating temperatures (100–104°F), so it handles drain-down water and leak water without issue.

Q: Does this replace the old Little Giant 6EN series? A: Yes. The 506802 directly replaces discontinued models 506611, 506711, and 506612. The 6EC has improved performance: 53 GPM (vs 50), 5.0 amps (vs 6.0), and 28 ft max head (vs 22 ft).

Q: How long is the power cord? A: 20 feet with a NEMA 5-15P grounded plug (standard 3-prong 115V). For a shorter cord, the 506801 has a 10-foot cord.

Q: Does it need GFCI protection? A: Yes. GFCI protection is required by the National Electrical Code (NEC) for all electrical equipment installed in wet locations or near pools, spas, and hot tubs.

Q: What warranty is included? A: Little Giant provides warranty coverage on this product. Contact Parts4Tubs or Little Giant for current warranty terms.

🔗 Part Numbers & Cross-References

Primary

Part Number	Description
506802	Little Giant 6EC-CIM, 1/3 HP, 115V, Manual, 20′ Cord, Polypropylene Base

Related 6EC Series (Same Motor, Different Switch/Cord)

Part Number	Model	Cord	Switch
506801	6EC-CIM	10 ft	Manual
506803	6EC-CIA-RF	10 ft	Auto — Piggyback Mechanical Float
506804	6EC-CIA-SFS	20 ft	Auto — Integral Snap-Action Float
506807	6EC-CIA-SFS	10 ft	Auto — Integral Snap-Action Float
506852	6EC-CIM	—	Manual — Cast Iron Base (not polypropylene)

Discontinued Models Replaced by 506802

Part Number	Old Model	Notes
506611	6EN-CIM	20′ cord — direct replacement is 506802
506711	6EN Series	Replaced by 506611, then by 506802
506612	6EN Series	Replaced by 506802

🏆 Why Choose the Little Giant 6EC-CIM

• ✅ 53 GPM at 5 ft — Fast sump evacuation for hot tub equipment areas
• ✅ Only 5.0 Amps / 600W — Energy-efficient PSC motor runs cool
• ✅ Continuous Duty — Designed for 24/7 sump applications
• ✅ Epoxy-Coated Cast Iron — Heavy-duty, corrosion-resistant body
• ✅ Handles 1/2″ Solids — Passes debris without clogging
• ✅ 140°F Max Temp — Handles hot tub water temperatures
• ✅ 20-Foot Cord — Flexibility for outlet placement
• ✅ Nitrile Carbon/Ceramic Seal — Reliable mechanical shaft seal
• ✅ Thermal Overload Protection — Auto-reset prevents motor damage
• ✅ cCSAus Listed — Safety certified for US and Canada
• ✅ Proven 6E Platform — Industry-recognized reliability from Little Giant
• ✅ Replaces 6EN Series — Better flow, lower amps, higher head — direct drop-in

🤝 Why Buy from Parts4Tubs

• ✅ Fast shipping across the United States
• ✅ Expert advice from spa and hot tub specialists
• ✅ Competitive pricing
• ✅ Full warranty support
• ✅ Hassle-free returns
• ✅ Complete range of pumps — circulation, jet, sump, and utility
• ✅ Dedicated customer service team

⭐ Summary

The Little Giant 6EC-CIM (506802) is a 1/3 HP continuous-duty submersible sump and effluent pump built on Little Giant’s proven 6E platform. Delivering 53 GPM at 5 ft of head on just 5.0 amps, with an epoxy-coated cast iron body, polypropylene base, and stainless steel fasteners, it provides reliable sump pit evacuation for hot tub equipment areas, basements, and dewatering applications. Handles water up to 140°F and semi-solids up to 1/2 inch. This is the manual version with 20-foot cord — runs when plugged in. For automatic on/off, choose the 6EC-CIA-SFS (506807). Replaces discontinued 506611, 506711, and 506612 with improved performance. cCSAus listed. Order from Parts4Tubs today.

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.

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.