Electrical Codes for Hot Tubs

Summary: Listing of electrical codes for hot tubs with examples of hot tub codes for home electrical wiring.

Electrical Code Definitions for Hot Tubs

Hot Tub Codes in NEC, National Electrical Code Section 680

This listing provides an example of the typical electrical codes for hot tubs as found in the articles of section 640 of the National Electrical Code.

Highlights of the Codes for Hot Tubs include GFCI Protection for the electrical circuit and electrical equipment within the vicinity of the hot tub.

Code Adoption Information:
The codes shown are examples only and may not be current or accurate for your application or jurisdiction. Contact your local building authority for complete information.

NEC 680.22(A)(4)
Pools, spas whirlpool tubs and boathouses.

GFCI Receptacle outlets.

Receptacles that are within 20 feet or less of pools and outdoor hot tubs must be GFCI protected.

NEC 680.42(A)(1)
Hot tub/spa.

LFMC or LFNMC is permitted up to 6 feet for a package unit hot tub or spa.

NEC 680.42(A)(2)
Hot tub/spa.

A cord up to 15 feet is permitted for a GFCI-protected package unit hot tub or spa.

NEC 680.42(B)
Hot tub/spa.

Bands used to secure hot tub staves are exempt from bonding.

NEC 680.43(A)(3)
Pools, spas whirlpool tubs and boathouses.

GFCI.

GFCI protection is required for receptacles that provide power to indoor spas or hot tubs

NEC 680.44
Pools, spas whirlpool tubs and boathouses.

GFCI.

GFCI protection is required for outlets supplying power to any self-contained packaged spa, hot tub or field-assembled units with heating that is less than 50 Amps.

Questions about Electrical Codes for Hot Tubs, Spas and Pools

Questions about Residential Electrical Wiring Codes for Hot Tubs, Pools, and Spas

Question from Von, a Homeowner in Phoenix, Arizona

Should a 110 volt GFCI be Installed to Provide Ground Fault Protection for a 240 volt Spa?

I have a spa with a VS510SZ electric panel. The sticker shows 240 volt 60hz 40amp max. Can we run a 50 amp GFCI sub panel to feed power to it, or should a 110 volt GFCI circuit be installed with the 50 amp sub-panel?

Dave’s Answer:

Von, The spa is protected for ground fault when using a 240volt GFCI Circuit Breaker in the panel providing power to the spa.


» 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.

See How to Wire it Right!

Learn more about Residential Electrical Wiring Codes

Complete Guide to Home Electrical Wiring

Perfect for Homeowners, Students and Electricians
Includes:
Fully Illustrated
Home Electrical Wiring - Room by Room
Wiring 120 and 240 Volt Circuits
Wiring Main Panels
Underground and Overhead Services
Grounding and Bonding
55 Electrical Code Topics
6 Most Commonly Used NEC Code Tables
11 Home Wiring Plans
28 Wiring Diagrams and Illustrations
Illustrated Wiring Methods
NEC Codes for Home Electrical Wiring
....and much more.
» Click here to learn more about Home Electrical Wiring «

Electrical Tip

The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wiring!

The Non-Contact Electrical Tester
This is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester, [amazon.com], I use for the detection of Standard Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.

Electrical Code Questions and Answers