Who doesn’t enjoy a relaxing dip in a hot tub? But like everything else, hot tubs need maintenance and part of that involves draining the water periodically. But draining with a hose can take hours! So what is the best pump to drain a hot tub?
Some of the best hot tub submersible pumps for draining include:
- Professional EZ Travel Collection Submersible Drain Pump
- Acquaer 1/3 HP Automatic Submersible Water Pump
- Acquaer 1HP Sump Pump
But those are only 3 of my top 5 picks!
Below I get into all 5 with all the pros, cons, and price ranges. Plus I cover power, cord, and hose length and which one of the 5 I personally use on my hot tub.
And that’s where the best pump to drain a hot tub comes in handy. But how do you select the right one? Stick around, and we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty.
Short Summary
- Top picks for hot tub drain pumps include Aqua-Flo XP2e, AquaPro Water Removal Pump, Professional EZ Travel Collection Submersible Drain Pump, and Acquaer 1/3 HP Automatic Submersible Water Pump.
- Factors to consider when choosing a pump are size, power, and compatibility with the tub.
- Regular cleaning & inspections of the pump plus proper storage are essential for optimal performance & longevity.
Top Hot Tub Drain Pumps
When it comes to hot tub drain pumps, not all are created equal, and the best one for you largely depends on your specific needs. To help you make an informed decision, let’s take a closer look at some of the best hot tub drain pumps available in 2023, each offering unique features and benefits.
For instance, the Aqua-Flo XP2e hot tub drain pump is a great choice.
Best Overall: Professional EZ Travel Collection Submersible Drain Pump – Around $150
Next on our list is the Professional EZ Travel Collection Submersible Drain Pump.
This pump is a jack of all trades, and master of… well, all! Constructed from thermoplastic and fitted with a mighty 400-watt motor, it’s not only perfect for draining your hot tub but also for tackling a variety of other draining tasks, including removing the drain plug.
This is literally the one I own (you can see me and it in many of the pics).
And it’s no slouch when it comes to capacity either. With a power of 1-1/2 horsepower and a capacity of 3700 gallons per hour, you’ll be waving goodbye to your hot tub water in no time. Plus, it comes complete with a 1-1/2-inch drain hose, hose clamp, and a durable 25-foot cable, making it a great all-around package.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
Best Compromise Between Budget and Price: Acquaer 1HP Sump Pump – Around $120
My top pick for a submersible pump is 1.5 horsepower and around $120. My low-end pick is only 1/3 horsepower but under $90 bucks.
So for those of you in the middle, I have a great compromise between power and price.
The Acquaer 1HP Sump Pump is a reliable choice for draining a hot tub. With its powerful 1HP motor, it can efficiently remove water from your hot tub, ensuring quick and effective drainage.
Its durable construction and corrosion-resistant design make it suitable for various applications, including hot tubs. The pump’s compact size and portable design make it easy to maneuver and use.
With its reliable performance and affordable price range, the Acquaer 1HP Sump Pump is a practical option for hot tub owners looking for an efficient and convenient way to drain their tubs.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
Budget-Friendly Option: Acquaer 1/3 HP Automatic Submersible Water Pump
Budget-conscious hot tub owners, we’ve got you covered! Meet the Acquaer 1/3 HP Automatic Submersible Water Pump, the wallet-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on power or efficiency. This pump is a powerhouse with a bottom suction design that filters debris and removes water down to 1/4 inch from the surface, making it a great choice for both hot tubs and pool pump needs.
And the icing on the cake? An automatic on/off switch that ensures your hot tub drains efficiently without any manual intervention.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
Budget Running Up 1 – Green Expert 203618 1/4HP Submersible Utility Pump – Under $70
Hot on the heels of our top picks is the Green Expert 203618 1/4HP Submersible Utility Pump.
This reliable workhorse offers a capacity of 26.5 GPM, making it a great option for efficiently draining your hot tub. This pump is a perfect match for hot tub owners who have their tubs set up in their backyard and can connect a 34-inch garden hose to this pump.
However, one thing to note is that, unlike our top picks, this pump does not come with an automatic shutdown feature.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
Runner Up 2 – Green Expert 1.5HP Sump Pump Submersible High Flow 5000GPH – About $120
The Green Expert 1.5HP Sump Pump Submersible High Flow 5000GPH is a reliable option for draining your hot tub.
With its powerful 1.5HP motor and high flow rate of 5000 gallons per hour, it can efficiently remove water from your tub. Its submersible design allows for easy installation, and the durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
The pump’s versatility and capacity make it suitable for various water drainage applications, including hot tubs.
Whether you need to empty your tub for maintenance or winterization, this sump pump will get the job done quickly and effectively. Its robust performance and user-friendly features make it a practical choice for hot tub owners in need of reliable water drainage.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hot Tub Drain Pump
While we’ve given you our top picks for hot tub drain pumps, it’s essential to understand the key factors that should guide your choice. After all, a pump that works beautifully for one hot tub might not be the perfect fit for another.
So let’s dive into the specifics.
Pump Power and Capacity
First and foremost, it’s crucial to consider the power and capacity of the pump. Think of it this way – a strong man can carry more weight than a weaker one in the same amount of time. Similarly, a pump with a higher horsepower can effectively move more water in a given time.
It’s all about finding that sweet spot where the pump’s capacity aligns with your hot tub’s size and frequency of use.
Automatic On/Off Switch
Next on the list is the automatic on/off switch. Picture this – you’re out enjoying a sunny day while your hot tub is being drained. Suddenly, the sky clouds over and there’s a blackout. But there’s no need to panic!
With an automatic on/off switch, the pump will automatically shut off in the event of a power interruption, ensuring the pump doesn’t run dry and prolonging its lifespan.
Compatibility with Your Hot Tub
Finally, don’t forget to ensure the pump is compatible with your hot tub. Yes, a pump might be powerful and feature-rich, but if it’s not compatible with your hot tub, it’s as good as useless. Most hot tub pumps are designed to use either 1.5” or 2” plumbing fittings, so make sure to check this before making your purchase.
It’s also important to consider the size of the pump. If you have a computer, you will have a problem with that.
Step-by-Step Guide to Draining Your Hot Tub with a Pump
Now that we’ve covered the best submersible water pump and what to consider when buying one, let’s shift gears and discuss how to use a pump for draining your hot tub. Shall we get started?
Preparing Your Hot Tub for Draining
Before you start the draining process, you need to prepare your hot tub. Start by turning off the power and then remove the cover.
Setting Up the Drain Pump
With your hot tub prepped and ready, it’s time to set up the drain pump. Start by connecting the pump to a power source, but remember to turn off the power to the hot tub first.
Run the hose from the submersible pump to a discrete part of your yard away from:
- Flower beds
- Tree roots
- Pristine grass
Then simply drop the pump into the deepest part of the hot tub standing upright.
Monitoring the Draining Process
You’re all set and the draining process is underway. But don’t wander off just yet. It’s crucial to keep an eye on the process to ensure the pump is working efficiently and safely.
If the pump falls over, it could trigger the float to turn off which will stop the draining process.
Maintaining your pump is essential for its longevity and efficiency. One crucial aspect is to keep an eye out for any potential deposits or clogs on the pipes and impeller surfaces of the pump, which can be caused by slightly dirty water. And remember, patience is key here!
Getting the last bits of water out after the pump stops
A wet-dry vac is an essential tool for removing the last remaining inches of water from the footwells and bottom of a hot tub after draining most of the water with a submersible pump.
It’s powerful suction capability and versatile attachments allow you to access hard-to-reach areas and remove any residual water. The float switch feature ensures that the vac automatically shuts off when the water level reaches a certain point, preventing any overflow.
With a wet-dry vac, you can quickly and easily remove every last little bit of water from your spa, ensuring it is completely empty and ready for maintenance or storage. It provides a convenient and efficient way to eliminate even the smallest amounts of water, leaving your hot tub dry and well-maintained.
Cleaning the hot tub before refilling
After draining the water from your hot tub using a submersible pump, it’s important to give the spa shell a little TLC to ensure it’s clean and ready for refilling with fresh water.
Start by wiping down the empty spa shell using clean rags and a spa shell cleaner (I like a 50/50 mix of water and white vinegar).
This is an easy way to remove any residue or buildup on the surface. Rinse the shell thoroughly with clean water to ensure no cleaning product is left behind. If need be, use the Wet/Dry vac again to remove the rinse water. As a responsible hot tub owner, maintaining good water quality and cleanliness is crucial.
By taking the time to clean the spa shell properly, you’ll create a fresh and inviting environment for your next soak.
Make sure and repeat the process of draining and refilling your hot tub about every 3-4 months.
Tips for Maintaining Your Hot Tub Drain Pump
Now let’s move on to some pro tips on how to maintain your hot tub drain pump. Just like any other piece of equipment, your pump needs some TLC to perform its best and last longer.
To keep your pump running smoothly, make sure to clean it regularly.
Regular Cleaning
First up on the maintenance checklist is regular cleaning. Once you’ve finished draining your hot tub, remember to remove the pump. Use a wet and dry vacuum to remove any remaining water from the pump.
Finally, rinse the pump and make sure it’s completely dry before packing it away.
Proper Storage
Next, let’s talk about storage. When your pump is not in use, it’s important to store it in a cool, dry place. This helps to protect it from any potential damage and extreme temperatures.
And don’t forget to keep it out of reach from pesky critters!
Routine Inspections
Finally, don’t forget about routine inspections. It’s a good idea to regularly check your pump for any signs of wear or damage. A quick visual inspection can help detect any potential issues early on, allowing you to address them promptly and keep your pump in top shape.
Regular inspections can help you identify any problems before they become serious, saving you time and money.
Alternative Methods for Draining a Hot Tub (aside from a pump)
While using a pump is undoubtedly the most efficient way to drain a hot tub, there are other methods you can resort to in case of emergencies.
The simplest way to drain a hot tub without buying an expensive pump is to simply hook a garden hose up to the spigot located behind one of the panels on your hot tub (often, but not always a corner panel).
Alternatively, a 5-gallon bucket combined with a wet/dry vacuum can also be used to drain the hot tub. However, remember these methods might require more time and effort compared to using a pump.
Summary
We’ve covered a lot of ground in this post, from the top hot tub drain pumps to the key factors to consider when choosing a pump, and even how to maintain your pump. Remember, the key is to choose a pump that’s powerful, efficient, and most importantly, suitable for your hot tub.
So, there you have it – the ultimate guide to hot tub drain pumps. We hope this post has helped you gain a clearer understanding of what to look for in a drain pump and how to make the most of it. Happy soaking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of pump do you need to drain a hot tub?
A submersible pump is the most common option for draining a hot tub in as little as 15 minutes. Look for one with 1/2 horsepower or better and a 15-25′ hose.
Do you need a pump to drain a hot tub?
You can drain a hot tub by using the drain spigot with a standard garden hose, a submersible drain pump, or a wet/dry vacuum. Before attempting to drain the hot tub, make sure to turn off the power supply to avoid any potential hazards.
How can I maintain my hot tub drain pump?
Regularly clean, store, and inspect your drain pump to ensure it runs optimally. And ideally don’t put it away while still wet.
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