ECN Forum Forums Code Related Discussion NEC & other Code issues Another Hot Tub problem

Uh... but doesn't that bust 680-12?

"A disconnecting means shall be provided and be accessible, located within sight from all pools, spas and hot tub equipment..."

Warning: Comments from the peanut gallery here.

Couldn't you give him a choice between a regular disconnect and a top-of-the-line, OSHA approved for antarctic typhoon conditions disconnect. Let him select the better one and brag to his friends that "you just can't be too careful about these things."

Sorry, it also would be less than 5 ft.

[This message has been edited by Redsy (edited 06-21-2001).]

Could you use a GFCI receptacle and a cord and plug per 680-7? Or is this not a good application for your situation? Is this for the pump or the heaters?
I tend to agree with dspark that the disconnect is for his safety should something go awry somewhere in the circuit. The switch would be considered as controls circuit (like a pushbutton on a motor) and not the required disconnect.

Warren,

Many Tubs, even the package units that come with cord and plug are converted to 240 volt operation and then require a hardwired 40 to 60 amp circuit. These need disconnects within sight.

Bill

Electure,

The problem isn't that the contactor would inadvertantly close by itself without control power, but it is fairly common to see one or more of the contacts weld themselves closed during operation.

I think this is a really BAD idea. Yeah you're right, anyone working on this spa should lock out the breaker and check for voltage before doing the work, but unfortunately we live in the real world, we have to plan for the idiot that doesn't take the time.

There has to be an OSHA or some other rule prohibiting this somewhere, I can't imagine this being an acceptable means of meeting the requirements of 680-12. I know that breaking control voltage is not an acceptable means to lock out equipment at the manufacturing plant that I work at, and management would never have a rule like that unless some law forced them to.

I say put the disco in according to 680-12, and tell the guy with the money to have someone paint some flowerdy stuff on it

Matt

gents;

680-12 , as well as other 680 rulings is asking that the disco NOT be any closer than 5', can't rest yer beer there,no-no-no, not in arms length
{I got bagged on this Redsy,don't feel bad)

the key wording is 'within sight'

we all know where this ends up.

680-38 , is an E-stop, because of the commercial spas & tubs that have a pump room and no disco @ the unit. This is due to 680-12 ....

(apparently someone drowned)

Personally i like itannicnic's idea and would like nothing better than to sit in my H-tub with a brew admiring a well constructed disco.

(is it me, or do some people lack taste?)

Thanks for all the input guys...

OK...bad idea...

Bill, (or anyone) did the discos you mentioned in the last thread have a little more appeal than a regular one? Are there any flush mountable units with a WP cover?

My local supplier has nothing but a regular GE raintite 60A unit, of which can house the 50A GFCI breaker.

I could mount it on Kendorf and use PVC coated rigid and explosion-proof fittings for more bragging rights!

If im working on a hot tub motor, I want to see that disconnect right there and not just a SWITCH. Good idea though(for the owners convenience anyway)