Check Out This Months New Tips

Featured Special: Whole Home Protection Bundle

Wiring for Hot Tubs

SESCOS
background image

 

Electrical Wiring and Hot Tubs

After a long, rough day, there’s nothing like stepping into your own private hot tub and letting the stresses melt away. A hot tub can be a real treat, but it can also turn into a real nightmare if you’re not careful about electrical safety and knowledgeable about the correct wiring for hot tubs.

Don’t count on the hot tub retailer or installers to be experts in electricity. Always call one of SESCOS qualified electricians to inspect your wiring and your new tub before you start bubbling up trouble.

 

What Do You Need for Outdoor Electrical Service?

Before you do anything, check your local electrical codes–some of them require that all hot tubs be installed by licensed electricians.

 

Is Your Hot Tub a Money Grubber?

  • Before inspecting the wiring and the hot tub, make sure all the power sources are shut off.
  • Grounding is critical; always use GFCI protection and test it regularly.
  • Never install a hot tub near outdoor light fixtures or under power lines.
  • For peace of mind, call of one of SESCOS hot tub installation and wiring experts.

Remember, hot tubs don’t just have an upfront cost, they have a monthly utility cost, too.

 

What Do You Need to Run the Hot Tub?

  • Hot tubs that are 10 years old or more are half as efficient as those being made now.
  • Your monthly costs could range from about $20 a month to over $100 with an older model.
  • Let a qualified SESCOS electrician check out the tub to make sure it’s not washing your money away.

Most modern hot tubs require a 50-amp, 240-volt outlet. You will also need some additional equipment.

 

Wiring for Hot Tubs: Is Your House Ready?

  • Hot tubs require a separate junction box.
  • You’ll need a disconnect switch. To prevent dangerous shocks, the National Electrical Code requires that this be at least five feet from the hot tub.
  • That distance is required to prevent people from touching the disconnect panel while they’re in the hot tub.
  • You may also need a local electrical permit
  • Call a SESCOS electrician to ensure you have every part and permit you need.

While most newer hot tubs run on a four-wire system, some older models require a three-wire system. Do you know what your house is wired for?

 

Make Electrical Safety a Priority

  • It’s dangerous to connect a four-wire tub to a three-wire system; always rely on a professional electrician to tell you what kind of wiring you have.
  • Every wire on the hot tub must be GFCI-protected.
  • Some local codes require the use of copper wire for hot tubs; using the wrong wiring material can violate codes and your warranty.
  • It’s always wisest to let SESCOS experienced, professional electricians handle the wiring for you.

When it comes to outdoor electrical service, use common sense and always remember that your and your family’s safety comes first.

 

Enjoy Your Hot Tub

  • Keep all electrical appliances several feet away from a hot tub, pool or outdoor sauna.
  • Never touch an electrical appliance or outlet when you’re wet.
  • Don’t run underground wiring under a hot tub.
  • Regularly test your GFCI outlets and breakers to make sure the protection is working.
  • Make sure everyone in the family knows the safety rules.

 

Once your hot tub has been properly inspected, installed and wired, you’ll be able to enjoy it with complete peace of mind. Don’t spend any time worrying about safety or wondering if your wiring is up to speed. Call a SESCOS electrician today and we’ll make sure you enjoy that hot tub as often as you can.