ECN Forum
Posted By: Redsy Jacuzzi (hydromassage tub) shutoff? - 01/27/07 06:45 PM
I often see shut off switches for residential Jacuzzi tubs, even though they are cord-and-plug connected. I think they are installed as a misinterpretation of the emergency shut-off requirement for spas & hot tubs.

Does anyone else install them?

Thanks
Posted By: renosteinke Re: Jacuzzi (hydromassage tub) shutoff? - 01/27/07 10:38 PM
Not I. At least, not as any sort of 'emergency' shut off. I consider the controls on the tub to be sufficient for that purpose.

There is some sort of disconnect at the feeder; there is often some sort of disconnecting means under the tub - often a plug for the pump, and another for the heater.
Posted By: iwire Re: Jacuzzi (hydromassage tub) shutoff? - 01/27/07 11:19 PM
An emergency shut off is required for spas and hot tubs unless it is a single family dwelling.

The code reference in the 2002 code is 680.41, I do not know if this changed for 2005. (It's 9 F outside....I am not going out to the truck for my 2005. [Linked Image] )
Posted By: HotLine1 Re: Jacuzzi (hydromassage tub) shutoff? - 01/27/07 11:27 PM
Common practice here is single recept for pump, sing for heat; some do duplex w/split tabs. Then faceless GFI (deadfront) somewhere in bath area. Others do GFI CB.
Cord/plug serves as the 'service disco'.
In almost 30 years, have not seen a switch.

John
Posted By: ShockMe77 Re: Jacuzzi (hydromassage tub) shutoff? - 01/28/07 12:38 AM
Nope, I wire them like Hotline1 suggested. Either with a FACELESS GFCI installed above the bathroom toggle switches, or with a GFCI circuit breaker. I prefer the protection be in the bathroom above the switches as compared to inside the panel because its more convienent to the customer to reset the GFCI if it happens to trip.
Posted By: iwire Re: Jacuzzi (hydromassage tub) shutoff? - 01/28/07 12:03 PM
John is that how it is done in other than single family dwellings?

You all have me confussed....which is not that hard at times. [Linked Image]
Posted By: iwire Re: Jacuzzi (hydromassage tub) shutoff? - 01/28/07 12:07 PM
I see what I have mistaken, I was assuming a 'spa' was a 'Jacuzzi'

I don't really see the difference electrically but I see the difference in the defintions.....still confused. [Linked Image]
Dear Confused in MA,

You might know this already but I see this as an opportunity to razz you. "Jacuzzi" is a brand name of products including tubs, basins camodes and bidets. So if you have a "Jacuzzi" bidet, you may or may not need a disconnect within sight.

Okay I feel better now.

I don't have a problem with installers using a cord/cap as a disconnect for a HMBT (Hydromassage bathtub) and having to open an access door to use it. This "disconnect" is for servicing the motor. This is not unlike the disconnect that might be located under the skirt of a hot tub or spa.

As for the faceless GFCI, this makes common sense but this would be optional. IMHO The words "within sight of it's equipment" are in the discription of Article 680 for the '02 NEC and in the '05 NEC the've added the words "readily accessible" and this may change the way this gets enforced.

Okay Bob- Your turn.
Posted By: dilydalyer Re: Jacuzzi (hydromassage tub) shutoff? - 01/28/07 03:17 PM
Gfi above or below panel in house feeding a single receptacle under jacuzzi....thats how we do it....Had A guy ask me the other day if he could install a single pole switch in place of the air switch..He said they had the wrong switch...I pointed out the idea of the owner sitting in the tub and flicking a switch didn't sound to safe.....
Posted By: HotLine1 Re: Jacuzzi (hydromassage tub) shutoff? - 01/28/07 11:18 PM
Iwire: (Bob)

No, the post was for a hydro massage tub (whirlpool/'jacuzzi'/etc) in a residential unit; for use by the occupant of said dwelling.

OK, now before I get jumped; NOT a common area tub in a complex; or in a gym, health club, etc.

The above post is 'common practice' here for resi.

Comm is another story.

'Confused in MA', I really doubt that!

"Jacuzzi" is like saying "Romex", George. My 'bad'! A hydro massage tub, fill it, enjoy the bubbles/jets, have fun, & drain it out

John
Posted By: Redsy Re: Jacuzzi (hydromassage tub) shutoff? - 01/29/07 12:44 AM
...the idea of the owner sitting in the tub and flicking a switch didn't sound to safe.....

I agree, but I don't believe that installing a switch that is accessible from a tub is prohibited. Some times in small bathrooms, there isn't much choice.
Posted By: HotLine1 Re: Jacuzzi (hydromassage tub) shutoff? - 01/29/07 01:08 AM
Redsy:
Yes, I have to agree, an accessable switch seems to be NEC compliant. As long as it's not within the tub 'footprint', like a receptacle. I know of no prohibition (NEC)
John
That "Confused in MA" comment was a shot at iWire from MA, just an attempt to get a raise out of him. Bob (iWire) is a very qualified electrician and a sharp code quy. Apparently didn't see my comment.
Posted By: HotLine1 Re: Jacuzzi (hydromassage tub) shutoff? - 01/29/07 06:01 PM
George:
I know what you were getting at, and I agree about Bob....guess he didn't get to this thread yet!
John
Posted By: iwire Re: Jacuzzi (hydromassage tub) shutoff? - 01/31/07 10:10 AM
I have been to embaresed to look back in on this thread... [Linked Image] [Linked Image]

I have to run, I will be back. [Linked Image]
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