💪 Waterway Iron Might Circulation Pump – 1/8 HP – 1.5″ Connections
Rugged, reliable circulation power for demanding spa systems
♨️ Product Overview
The Waterway Iron Might is a robust 1/8 HP (0.13 HP) single-speed circulation pump designed for continuous operation in spas and hot tubs. With 1.5-inch plumbing connections and operating at 230V/50Hz, this pump delivers reliable water circulation with a powerful 2,800 RPM motor speed.
Drawing 0.9A and consuming 0.10 kW, the Iron Might provides an excellent balance between performance and efficiency. The larger dimensions (305mm × 165mm × 210mm) compared to compact circulation pumps reflect its more powerful induction motor design, making it suitable for spa systems requiring greater flow capacity.
The Waterway Iron Might is commonly used with Hydrospa, Costco, and Southwest Spas including popular models such as the Bali Spa, Fiji Spa, Stereo Spa, Pacific Spa, 2000 Spa, and Kauai Spa. The pump is supplied without wiring – your existing wiring must be reused from the old pump.
✨ Key Features
✅ 1/8 HP Motor – Robust power output for reliable circulation
✅ 230V / 50Hz – UK standard electrical supply
✅ 2,800 RPM – High-speed motor for effective water flow
✅ 1.5-Inch Connections – Larger plumbing for increased flow capacity
✅ Single Speed – Simple, reliable fixed-speed operation
✅ Low Current Draw – Just 0.9A for efficient operation
✅ Proven Design – Trusted Waterway quality and reliability
✅ Multi-Brand Compatible – Fits Hydrospa, Costco, and Southwest Spas
✅ 6 µF Capacitor – Standard motor capacitor included
🔧 Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Pump Type | Circulation Pump – Fixed Speed |
| Brand | Waterway |
| Model | Iron Might |
| Motor Power | 1/8 HP (0.13 HP) |
| Power (kW) | 0.10 kW |
| Speed Settings | Single Speed |
| Motor Speed | 2,800 RPM |
| Voltage | 230 V |
| Frequency | 50 Hz |
| Amperage | 0.9 A |
| Capacitor | 6 µF |
| Plumbing Size | 1.5 inch (1½”) |
| Electrical Connection | No wire included – use existing |
| Length | 305 mm |
| Width | 165 mm |
| Height | 210 mm |
⚡ Electrical Requirements
| Electrical Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage | 230 V |
| Frequency | 50 Hz |
| Power Output | 0.10 kW (1/8 HP) |
| Full Load Amps | 0.9 A |
| Motor Speed | 2,800 RPM |
| Capacitor | 6 µF |
| Wiring | Not included – reuse existing |
⚠️ IMPORTANT ELECTRICAL SAFETY:
All electrical work must be carried out by a qualified electrician in accordance with UK wiring regulations (BS 7671). Hot tubs require RCD protection (30mA). Ensure proper earthing and bonding of all electrical components. The pump is supplied without wiring – your existing wiring from the old pump must be reused.
🔗 Compatibility Guide
This Pump Specifications:
📍 Model: Waterway Iron Might 📍 Motor: 1/8 HP (0.13 HP) 📍 Voltage: 230V / 50Hz 📍 Connection: 1.5 inch plumbing 📍 Current: 0.9A 📍 Dimensions: 305mm × 165mm × 210mm
Compatible Spa Brands:
This pump is commonly used with:
- Hydrospa
- Costco Spas
- Southwest Spas:
- Bali Spa
- Fiji Spa
- Stereo Spa
- Pacific Spa
- 2000 Spa
- Kauai Spa
Connection Note:
The 1.5-inch plumbing connections are standard for many spa circulation systems. Ensure your existing plumbing matches before ordering.
⚙️ Installation Requirements
Pump Dimensions:
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 305 mm |
| Width | 165 mm |
| Height | 210 mm |
Plumbing Connections:
| Connection | Size |
|---|---|
| Inlet | 1.5 inch |
| Outlet | 1.5 inch |
Installation Notes:
⚠️ No wiring included – reuse existing wiring from old pump
⚠️ Ensure capacitor matches specification (6 µF)
⚠️ Pump must be installed below water level (flooded suction)
⚠️ Never run the pump dry
⚠️ Ensure proper electrical bonding to earth
💡 Larger footprint than compact circ pumps – check available space
💡 Match plumbing connections before installation
💡 Have existing wiring inspected before reuse
🛠️ Maintenance Guide
Routine Maintenance:
| Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Check for leaks | Monthly | Inspect plumbing connections |
| Check motor operation | Weekly | Listen for unusual sounds |
| Verify water flow | Monthly | Ensure adequate circulation |
| Inspect wiring | Annually | Check for damage or corrosion |
| Check capacitor | Annually | Replace if motor struggles to start |
Warning Signs – Consider Replacement If:
- Motor hums but doesn’t start (possible capacitor failure)
- Unusual noise or vibration
- Motor overheating
- Reduced water flow
- Pump trips the circuit breaker
- Visible seal leakage
🎯 Ideal Applications
| Application | Suitability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ♨️ Hydrospa Hot Tubs | Yes | Common OEM pump |
| ♨️ Costco Spas | Yes | Direct replacement |
| ♨️ Southwest Spas | Yes | Multiple models compatible |
| ♨️ High-Flow Circulation | Yes | 1.5″ connections for good flow |
| ♨️ 24/7 Circulation | Yes | Designed for continuous operation |
| ♨️ Larger Spa Systems | Yes | More power than compact circ pumps |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the power rating of this pump? A: The Waterway Iron Might is rated at 1/8 HP (0.13 HP), consuming 0.10 kW and drawing 0.9A at 230V/50Hz.
Q: What size are the plumbing connections? A: The pump uses 1.5-inch (1½”) plumbing connections.
Q: Does this pump come with wiring? A: No, the pump is supplied without wiring. You must reuse the existing wiring from your old pump.
Q: What capacitor does this pump use? A: The Iron Might uses a 6 µF capacitor.
Q: What speed does the motor run at? A: The motor operates at 2,800 RPM.
Q: What spa brands is this pump compatible with? A: The Iron Might is commonly used with Hydrospa, Costco Spas, and Southwest Spas including Bali Spa, Fiji Spa, Stereo Spa, Pacific Spa, 2000 Spa, and Kauai Spa.
Q: Is this pump suitable for continuous 24/7 operation? A: Yes, the Waterway Iron Might is designed for continuous circulation operation.
Q: What are the dimensions of this pump? A: The pump measures 305mm (length) × 165mm (width) × 210mm (height).
Q: How does this compare to Laing circulation pumps? A: The Iron Might uses a traditional induction motor design rather than the ECM/spherical motor technology of Laing pumps. It’s larger and uses a capacitor for starting, but is well-proven in many spa applications.
Q: How do I know if my circulation pump needs replacing? A: Signs include the motor humming but not starting (capacitor failure), unusual noises, reduced water flow, overheating, or the pump tripping the circuit breaker.
🏆 Why Choose the Waterway Iron Might Circulation Pump
✅ Proven Waterway Quality – Trusted brand in the spa industry
✅ 1/8 HP Power – Robust motor for reliable circulation
✅ 2,800 RPM Speed – Effective water flow performance
✅ 230V / 50Hz – Designed for UK electrical supply
✅ 1.5-Inch Connections – Standard spa plumbing compatibility
✅ Multi-Brand Fit – Works with Hydrospa, Costco, and Southwest Spas
✅ Low Current – Just 0.9A for efficient operation
✅ Simple Design – Easy to install and maintain
🤝 Why Buy From Parts4Tubs
✅ UK-based company with expert local support
✅ Fast UK delivery options available
✅ Knowledgeable advice from spa industry specialists
✅ Competitive pricing
✅ Full warranty support
✅ Replacement capacitors available
✅ Easy returns within 30 days
✨ Summary
The Waterway Iron Might is a robust 1/8 HP (0.13 HP) single-speed circulation pump designed for continuous operation in spas and hot tubs. Operating at 230V/50Hz with a motor speed of 2,800 RPM, this pump draws 0.9A and consumes 0.10 kW. Features 1.5-inch plumbing connections for good flow capacity. Dimensions are 305mm × 165mm × 210mm. Uses a 6 µF capacitor. No wiring included – existing wiring must be reused. Commonly used with Hydrospa, Costco Spas, and Southwest Spas including Bali Spa, Fiji Spa, Stereo Spa, Pacific Spa, 2000 Spa, and Kauai Spa. A proven, reliable choice for spa circulation needs.
Filters Sort Reset Apply
The hot tub industry doesnt make it easy for you when you are trying to match up the size of the unions (the part that screws your pipe work onto the pumps) Below you can see the physical sizes of the collars, and how they relate to the actual union size you need. So a measurement of 2.5", edge to edge on the collar of the pump is actually a 1.5" union - confusing - absolutely! If you are not sure, give me a shout!
Hot Tub Pump Collar & Union Size Chart
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
- 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:
- 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.
- 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)
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Turn On the Power: Restore power to the hot tub by switching on the circuit breaker or reconnecting the disconnect switch.
- 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.
- Refill the Hot Tub: Once you've confirmed that the new pump is functioning properly, refill the hot tub with water.
- 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.
- 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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Hot Tub Pump Collar & Union Size Chart
| 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
|









