Hot
Tub Lines and Connections
You
have a new Hot Tub and need power and connections
Designing the system
The electric lines going to the hot tub are normally brought from the Main Service (if
there is room in it for a 220V breaker).
If the power from the tub comes from the
sub-panel which has a capacity of 100amps or smaller, a panel or main breaker overload is more possible.
Bringing the power from the Main Service allows the
load of the house subpanel to be separated from the tub. Consider how the lines will get to the tub location.
When the tub is
physically separated (in the back yard) from the house, a trench from
the structure to the tub area is needed.
This is usually provided
by the homeowner.
Of course, if the tub is on a deck, a trench is
not necessary, but a portion of the decking will probably need to be
removed.
Disconnect
Always, a
separate disconnect containing a Ground Fault Interrupter (usually in
a new sub panel) is also needed.
In most jurisdictions this is
required to be within a range of 5'-10' from the Tub.
We install this and also
install a 120V GFCI type outlet near the tub for common use.
Important
If the main service is grounded properly, the tub/service does not require secondary grounding. You should have a licensed electrical contractor (like me!) check the grounding on any older structure ('60s or older) before you install a tub.
POWER NEEDS
Since the hot tub will
use a significant amount of power (about the same amount as used by
an electric range with all the burners on) and takes 2 breaker
spots, you may need to consider a service upgrade, depending on your
service size.
That especially
matters if the sub panel (which feeds the circuits in the house itself) is very small or has a 100amp or smaller
feed breaker in the main.
In broad terms, if
your service size is:
1) Less than 100amps, it's too small for a
tub-you need an upgrade.
2) 100-125amps and you have an electric
stove and dryer, it's probably too small.
3) 200amps or over, you
should be fine.
Contact me (secure
email) with any questions or get a free design/estimate.
Go to the Home Page for my phone number to call me anytime.