Does My Sauna Require A Dedicated Electrical Circuit?

The sauna will require a dedicated 240 volt 40 amp GFCI Protected Circuit installed according to…

Electrical Question from Mike about Wiring a New Sauna
Background: Mike, a Homeowner from Ontario Canada

Question: I am installing a sauna in my basement. I was hoping to use a power cable that ran to an old water heater – 30 amp breaker 2 wire 10 gauge. However the sauna heater is rated at 7.5kW and the voltage is 240 V. The heater unit is marked 31.2 amp. Can I use the existing cable or do I have to run #8 with a 40 amp breaker. The current cable runs behind a wall and would be a pain to replace.

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Mike. The sauna will require a dedicated 240 volt 40 amp GFCI Protected Circuit installed according to applicable electrical codes. Take your time, but do it right. What a great opportunity to do something different! Besides, just think how great it’s going to feel soaking away and knowing you did it right!

The Following links will assist you with your electrical question:
Electrical Codes

For more information about Home Wiring
Home Wiring Diagrams

This link is helpful as a Homeowner
Do-It-Yourself Electrical

Make sure not to miss these Resources for: How-To-Videos
Electrical Videos

Be Careful and Be Safe – Never Work on Energized Circuits!

For Best Results Consult a Licensed Electrical Contractor.
Locate An Electrical Contractor in Your Area

» You Can Avoid Costly Mistakes! « Here's How to Do It: Wire It Right with the help of my Illustrated Wiring Book Great for any Home Wiring Project. Complete Guide to Home Electrical Wiring Perfect for Homeowners, Students, Handyman, Handywomen, and Electricians Includes: Wiring GFCI Outlets Wiring Home Electric Circuits 120 Volt and 240 Volt Outlet Circuits Wiring Light Switches Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Electric Range Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Dryer Cord and Dryer Outlet How to Troubleshoot and Repair Electrical Wiring Wiring Methods for Upgrading Electrical Wiring NEC Codes for Home Electrical Wiring ....and much more.

Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.

« How To Troubleshoot 3-Way Switch Wiring

How To Provide GFCI Protection For An Older Kitchen? »

» Electrical Wiring Book «

Home Wiring Guide

ELECTRICAL SAFETY

Home Electrical Wiring and Electrical Repairs Please Note: Unless otherwise posted, please refer to the following Guidelines when working on Electrical Projects: Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Certified Electrician or Licensed Electrical Contractor. Electrical Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter. Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, work with electrical wiring, and the available access to the project area. Precaution: Identify the project circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring. Important: Modifying existing electrical circuits or installing additional electrical wiring should be done according to local and National Electrical Codes, with a permit and be inspected.

STAY CONNECTED

ELECTRICAL NEWS UPDATES