Hot tub electrical install explaining parts of spa package and terminations

A hot tub installed, showing terminations and of spa package, panel, explaining the types of wire used and what each wire is doing.

[@glenburr6755]

Amazing the difference in codes. In the US the GFCI panel has to be within sight and 5' from the spa tub.

[@pjl1919]

And a service outlet within 25ft I believe

[@heavychevylou3203]

The GFI receptacle = within 10 to 20ft of the spa tub

[@ryaandnice]

And grounding has to be green, not bare copper.

[@keithharrington8715]

@@ryaandnice Ryan, the NEC allows for several ways to identify a "ground wire". Bare is an acceptable condition. I think it is in section 200.4. That said, they are in Canada and as always, nec section 90.4 allows the building inspectors to "interpret" the code. Hope I was helpfull.

[@EricsMuddySporty]

● Only copper conductors may be used, and all metal components within five feet of the hot tub must be bonded together with the appropriate size copper wire. ● An equipotential bonding grid, which is designed to mitigate step and touch voltage, must be installed. ● The hot tub must connect to a dedicated circuit protected by a GFCI. ● Any lighting, outlets, plugs, or other electrical equipment within five feet of the hot tub must be connected to a GFCI. ● A maintenance disconnect must be installed for all ungrounded wires, save those for lighting. This disconnect must be at least five feet, but no more than 50 feet from the water’s edge. It must also be visible from the hot tub. ● There must be at least one convenience receptacle between six and 20 feet from the inside wall of the hot tub. This must be a GFCI receptacle. ● All outdoor receptacles that are exposed to weather must have a weatherproof covering.

[@keithharrington8715]

Great job guys. I really appreciated your video. 3 style points I would point out. 1) your camera angle did not provide a good view of the cable clamp in the main panel. 2) when you stripped the cable, there is a string inside the cable to help with stripping. This might be helpful to people that do not strip cables every day.

[@brentb9319]

A hot tub is awesome 365 days a year....twice a day definitely worth it especially if you have back issues...or just like to relax tight muscles

[@sergebordage1273]

This is a really great video and also got some good info in the comments section which answered a few questions I had. I'm from the EastCoast (Canada) and happy you cleared up my question about using #8 with the 50amp spa pack. Having different codes in Canada and US is very confusing when looking online for help.

[@Luminelectric]

Thanks serge, we noticed the same thing. Appreciate your comment.

[@DanielinLaTuna]

Very nice and comprehensive demonstration. Thanks for sharing. Good tips; and thanks to your assistant for capturing the salient parts on video

[@jamisondiehl6141]

Ok, I was wondering where y’all might be from. I HAD to give a like the moment I heard some RED GREEN! Love it haha! Thanks for the video!

[@Luminelectric]

We are a Canadian company, this was filmed in Alberta. Agreed red green show was awesome!

[@utube0372]

@@Luminelectric greetings from Palm Coast Florida! We just purchased a Coleman hot tub it’s plastic and it came with a pump to blow it up. There is an outlet outside in the patio so we set it up right next to the outlet my concern is that it’s about 9 inches away from the hot tub is this okay if we buy a plastic cover for the outlet 🙈 I’m scared to get in it now lol help !

[@BrushFamilyFarms]

Awesome video. Exactly what I needed to clarify.

[@daveherron]

Haha not sure how I got this vid but felt the need to comment. This installation professional knows how to ride the clutch. Coming from someone that uses power tools to assemble RC cars using metal screws into plastic. Good job sir! :)

[@Luminelectric]

Dave Herron thanks so much for your comment, we appreciate that you liked our video.

[@rono108]

Very helpful video. Thanks from Ontario!

[@stevegilmour1099]

Great install and explanation but here in Ottawa, you have to be a meter away from that water spigot! Cheers!

[@kevindust2712]

That was the first thing I noticed too. It's funny how building codes change so much across different regions.

[@ulyssesgrant4403]

Great video with really good explaining of things. part missing was wiring into the hot tub itself

[@Luminelectric]

Totally agree with you, we will do a video on a couple different hot tub terminations in another video soon. Thanks for your feedback.

[@Manningo]

@@Luminelectric Still waiting for this.... :D

[@Luminelectric]

@@Manningo we will try get it made before this summer ends

[@jingles791]

That was freaky Dave Sopher hearing my last name 2 words into it but Yes getting ready to install electric for my hot tub! Jeremy Sopher in Ohio.

[@Garboligist343]

Platinum Lighting (Dave) really went to bat for me with questions on wiring my breaker box to my hot tub.Great job and very Happy!

[@rupe53]

Addressing some variations between the USA and Canada might be handy but nobody can be spot on for all of them. Then we have the UK (and others) who use 240 volt mains on everything so there is no 120 volt in their wiring. That's another animal when it comes to code understanding. In my area (New England USA) we have some odd requirements on distance between the spa box and the tub, which vary from location to location. They all seem to point out that the "main disconnect" should be within sight of the tub and clearly marked but far enough away that you can't reach it conveniently. (something like 12 ft) Same for having a service outlet nearby, that must also be GFIC. (recalling 12 - 15 ft) Most also call for #6 wire as a minimum for a 50 - 60 amp branch circuit out of the main panel (hence the remarks) but it quickly becomes obvious that most tubs only pull something under 40 amps, so doing the math with 80% loading on a branch circuit we're talking extra capacity only for the motor surge, so a 50 amp circuit will fit the bill. Given some distance (certain installs) the #8 wire might not cut it for voltage drop, at least for the entire run, but certainly for the last leg. If you add a service outlet to the spa box you probably need the #6 wire that far.

[@Luminelectric]

Thanks for this rupe53, I think everyone loves any extra help.

[@joelohara596]

Planning on installing a flick switch to turn on/off the jets for my indoor hot tub

[@chrissteele847]

EXCELLENT VIDEO!! thank you for posting. *thumbs up*

[@scottboyne8305]

Nice video, I learned how to wire my spa from a professional on line

[@Luminelectric]

Scott Boyne I cant tell if this is sarcasm, but I’ll take the compliment and hope that I’m still right in thinking people are nice. Hope you like the video they take a lot of time, effort and capital to make/edit. We hope that we can help people.

[@scottboyne8305]

@@Luminelectric no I meant no disrespect. I'm sorry, I loved your video. I bought my spa 2 years ago and watched a guy from Tennessee wire a spa. Sorry about that

[@Luminelectric]

No worries Scott, I am still finding so much positivity on the internet, It makes me happy to see that we’ve helped so many people. Appreciate your contribution to our feed!

[@donpaul5474]

Very well done instructional video.

[@that1electrician]

Around 8:00 you said your neutral isn't supposed to be touching ground ANYWHERE. That is false. They're bonded at the main panel. Only in sub panels like this are they not allowed to be touching due to objectionable fault current path in parallel back to main panel/ transformer. I forgot what code exactly but its NEC 250.

[@luminelectric4853]

Musta missed the first part where we explained we are in Canada, we use the CEC not the NEC

[@timowiemero3801]

Nice job!!! I would use a torque wrench to tighten up screws in the box to 25 inch-pounds!!!!

[@davidjackson4112]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge. Nice work. Excellent install.

[@Luminelectric]

Thanks so much for leaving a comment. Much appreciated!

[@ScottFranklin-of3nz]

People like these ideas in the country

[@Ryan_Iverson]

Pretty great video. Thanks so much.

[@Luminelectric]

Glad we could help Ryan! Thanks for your comment

[@fanmrfoxx7487]

Good video. Hopefully helpful comment, it is single phase power. 120v or 240 v they are both single phase power. The red and black are separate legs or taps from the transformer but still single phase power.

[@ahmet-zt3df]

Great Vid! Very professional 👏

[@djbaskin5814]

Easy to operate! Love it!

[@Luminelectric]

It sure is!

[@fredandrade4676]

Awsome video!Thanks for sharing your knowledge!

[@Luminelectric]

Not a problem Fred, glad we could help.

[@ryanlegere9356]

I’m literally doing the same install in my house next week

[@masonw5092]

Same

[@sundia4u]

You have done a great job, very professional! Though, the wire size is in correct for your job. Number 8 Guage wire is only good for 40 amps. You need a # 6 wire for 50 amps. Please check out your electrical code.

[@Luminelectric]

Thanks so much Michael, this video was filmed in 🇨🇦 and under the Canadian electrical code part 1, #8 is good for 50 amps.

[@curtf5647]

@@Luminelectric Hey great video, in the process of wiring my new hot tub. Just to make sure, you can use #6 wire for 50amps though? And where do you find those teck cable connectors in Canada?

[@Luminelectric]

@@curtf5647 yes you can definitely use #6 on a 50 amp breaker in Canada

[@JeffreyJones-ke3sd]

You need to read the hot tub instructions on the cover of the control box most require #6 copper .

[@andrews1467]

Great Video. Thank you so much.

[@phantom5185]

Ok,OK, got it. (My wire has black / red / copper / blue) no white. So, from the panel red connect to the box right-side black left-side. from the tub connects to the breaker, going to match it red on the right-side black on the left-side, blue at the back on the breaker. I purchased 84 feet, from the tub to this GFI 10-feet so I spilt cutting the wire. This is why I have four wires red/black/copper and blue. [I'm stuck buddy, if the wire that is coming from the house panel is the same from the tub, to the GFI box where does the blue wire go??] Your video is great, would love to get your feed on this, please? Thanks ahead Sam..

[@Luminelectric]

Hey Sam, so I will explain the hook up as best as I can From your panel you’ll have 2 hots (red/black) those tie into the terminals that feed the buss inside the spa pack, then that blue needs to be taped white and that now white wire ties to the neutral buss in the spa pack Now the cable from your tub to the spa pack should have 2 hots (black/red) that’ll get tied to the breaker under the load terminals, now on your spa pack GFI breaker you’ll have a special spot to terminate the blue (which you’ll be taping white as well) it’s usually called load neutral. Then that curly white white coming off the breaker can be terminated to the neutral buss. Hope this helps

[@phantom5185]

@@Luminelectric Thanks very much (Buddy) worked out great. My plastic GFI box is finished wired up. But, other short questions. In the panel, I bought a 50amp breaker. The same wire blue/black/red and copper. (Black and red goes on the breaker, but which side does the red go on right or left on the breaker?) And where does the blue go? The copper goes the ground yes? [Thanks so much for replying, very thankful for your time. Sam...

[@Luminelectric]

@@phantom5185 no problem Sam, glad we can help. In your panel it doesn’t matter which wire (black or red) goes on which side of the breaker, as long as the breaker is splitting the buss in the panel you’ll get your 240v. The blue needs to be tapped white and attached with the other neutrals on the neutral buss. Bare copper is gonna be your bond and should go on your bonding buss

[@chevybigblock3311]

Where I live you need number 6 wire for 50 amp breaker on hot tub. Due to needing a number 6 ground seems funny how depending on the location you live gets different rules.

[@Luminelectric]

Very true! Not sure why but some rules are very close between Canada and the USA and some are way off.

[@shunzhang4648]

I love this video, is it possible you list all the parts? Thanks.

[@argenismoreno8838]

Good video , thank you. Success to you. From Venezuela. 🤝👏🙏

[@Luminelectric]

Thanks so much argenis, we appreciate the ❤️, from 🇨🇦

[@dahlhouseEH]

trace the box, cut the cladding, add J channel, flush mount against house wrap and OSB/plywood. flex the channel and bait inside edge with sealant. i'd use compression fittings to the back of the box - hole saw matching the hex nut ring. the rest of the electrical is on point. makes it look so easy. its not easy.

[@Luminelectric]

Thanks 👍

[@Litvenenk0]

Why the fuck would you do that, I bet the customer would love to see you cutting up their siding and paying for extra labour/time/materials to do that (sarcasm) this right here looks clean as is and is how any service electrician would do. Maybe if it was your own house and you wanted that for some reason on your own time sure.

[@tparsons2471]

The #8 gauge wire you used is rated at Max 40 amps, not heavy enough for that spa which is probably a 50 amp circuit. Always use # 6 gauge wire for a spa. Never use NM-B outside.

[@Luminelectric]

This install is from Canada, under the CEC #8 is good for 50 amps.

[@tparsons2471]

@@Luminelectric look up the wire manufacture rating. I’m not going by the CEC or NEC. Cerrowire or Southwire charts say NM-B # 8 max rating is 40 amps. Not trying to school ya buddy. Just be safe. NM-B # 6 rating is 55 amps whereas THHN # 6 is rated at 65 amps. It depends on the heat rating of the jacket.

[@Luminelectric]

We have never seen a manufacturer rating on cable for amps. This job has passed an inspection. Until the table changes in the code book we will keep using the cable for what it’s rated for in the tables.

[@Luminelectric]

So I looked this up, we can pull our cable size from the 75 degree column under the manufactures standards is 50 amps. But thanks 🙏

[@jeremyrobertson4034]

@@Luminelectric Is it possible to tie a receptical into the panel for out door lights?

[@jcb5388]

#6 copper ground is required. The wire you are using is #10 for ground.

[@Luminelectric]

Yes sir a number 10 comes inside your teck 8/3 cable, it is used to bond the can and the armour, connectors and anything metal it touches, this method of bonding is correct in Canada, also this has been inspected by the local electrical authorities. #6 copper is used to ground the main service of a home in Canada Hope this helped clear up any confusion.

[@christianv7041]

Exactly what I was thinking #6 ? .

[@Luminelectric]

Christian, this fellow is talking about the grounding (bonding) conductor. This tub is a 40 amp tub with breakers and wire sized to 50 amp to accommodate inrush current. All legit here in Canada under the CEC (Canadian electrical code) and inspected by the local authority.

[@Kyle-mj6wf]

@@Luminelectric is any additional ground required for the spa in canada?

[@Luminelectric]

@@Kyle-mj6wf in Canada as long as your cable has a grounding conductor in it, that will count as bonding as long as it’s hooked up properly.

[@poooooooooooodiu]

Awesome video, I’m in Alberta as well and this is super helpful. I’ve got the exact same setup, and I’m running my teck cable to a sauna heater that has no neutral. What do you suggest I do with my neutral? Put a wire nut on either end? Or should I put terminate the neutral on the spa kit end and just put a wire but on the sauna end? Thanks a ton for the video!

[@luminelectric4853]

If the equipment has no neutral, just leave it capped at both ends. I’ve only seen one other tub like this in all the tubs I’ve done… and this was the advice from our local inspector.

[@poooooooooooodiu]

@@luminelectric4853 thanks so much man

[@argu4096]

At 9:40 the the reference to The Red Green Show. I love that show.

[@VIPPoolsandSpas]

I put you on my channel as a Featured Channel. Good Luck on YT.

[@luminelectric4853]

Thanks so much, we need to make the hot tub controls video soon!

[@heroknaderi]

Very helpful thank you 😎 also it seems in Canada people can do electrical work without a permit while in the United States 🇺🇸 you do. I enjoyed the video

[@Luminelectric]

We are so glad you liked the video, people in Canada and the US should both be pulling permits for this type of work. 🤞

[@donatopi5399]

I would've thought to use some 6 wire for a 50 amp breaker, additionally, I like the idea of using two breaker in the shut off, 20 amp for the pump and 30 amp for the heater. Better setup!

[@joeczernik2459]

depends on the hot tub. Hotsprings uses two breakers. All other use one 50 or 60 amp with #6 line and you can use #10 for the grtound and neutral

[@garyl3802]

There are some 8 gauge that are rated for 50 amps.

[@garyl3802]

Internally, all spa components are individually protected. The spa pack 50 or 60A is calculated to withstand all components running at the same time (FLA). And tripping that potential leakage current. I have to laugh at people that spend 10,000 dollars on a hot tub but are shocked when they find out the electrical could cost upwards of 1500 dollars. It’s about saving their life .

[@donatopi5399]

@@garyl3802 Funny thing is, I have a buddy named Gary L. I call him "G".

[@chrisgraham8711]

What did you call the wire in the house ? The white one going to the breaker box

[@blainemcdonald6972]

Bonding bushing, good stuff

[@THEELECTRICSIDEOFTHINGS]

Good job looks nice and clean 👍

[@shootnpost7954]

Thank you. Greta instructions.

[@Luminelectric]

Thanks

[@shanehazel1]

Great video! Thank you

[@jstone1211]

In the US, a 50 Amp CB requires #6 AWG....ie the 80% rule

[@luminelectric4853]

Thanks but we are in Canada and follow all the legal requirements of the CEC. To note this hot tub is 40 amps max and is ran with a 50 amp cable and breakers so it’s still 80% rule 😊

[@jstone1211]

@@luminelectric4853 great, thanks for replying. IN the US, 40 CB would indeed use #8...good video.

[@Seemsayin]

I thought GFCI disconnects had to be within 5 feet & within sight of the jacuzzi. No, I haven't read the description, nor any other comments.

[@mrmisterman999]

gona give the neighbors a nice show. Never understood having a hot tub in tract housing like this, you'll never get any privacy.

[@danhyde2656]

I know what you mean. Last tub I did, I could have done the install naked probably

[@ecobuilder2996]

Moving my hot tub to a further away spot - can I use a junction box (on gazebo) to get the wire from the hot tub to be able to connect to the new line cable?

[@Luminelectric]

If your in Canada you can, make sure the box is accessible, make sure it’s weather proof (PVC boxes need any metal connectors bonded) I’d opt for a metal one with hinges so you don’t have to bend connectors(get it with Pre drilled knock outs). All connectors, wire devices basically must all be rated for there location. NOTE :most boxes can be hidden but still be accessible like under deck. Hope this helped 👍

[@dank1837]

Love the crocodile Dundee wire stripper 😂

[@Luminelectric]

Thanks 😊

[@galawangelectrical]

i miss this kind of work, termination.

[@Luminelectric]

Terminations are the best part of electrical for sure.

[@galawangelectrical]

@@Luminelectric indeed,

[@manuelvicente8421]

Someone knows what that cable is called. That brings the pvc flex and inside the metallic, and Romex at the end

[@DPShouse]

Great video man! Very well done.

[@Luminelectric]

Thanks for your positive feedback! Much appreciated

[@barryseidner2748]

What breaker box did you use?

[@luminelectric4853]

The spa pack and breaker are Siemens. Definitely the best product to use for spa packs (GFI breaker box).

[@marcellowithtwols]

Hi there, just wondering why you went with 8/3 wire instead of 6/3. My understanding is that hot tubs require 50amp @110v. Thx!

[@Luminelectric]

I think there are definit rules depending on the country but in Canada 50 amps is rated for 8/3 cable

[@PtboLongboarding]

I believe #8 needs a bushing in Ontario.

[@fakename9024]

Do you have to install another electrical box for a radio or light that you use near the Hot Tub?

[@joelsanford]

Wow that breaker box looks low to the ground, I thought they need to be between 4’-6’ off the ground!

[@davidcook4604]

Phase does matter if your system uses the power lines to send signals across them like my solar array does.

[@Luminelectric]

On a typical 120/240 single phase panel. The phases should not matter. There are a few one off systems where it’ll matter, but for this video and the 99% of people it shouldn’t matter.

[@dallas5374]

David stop talking

[@mattmccaffrey4299]

Thank you for clear explanation

[@Luminelectric]

No problem Matt, thanks for leaving us a great comment!

[@mattmccaffrey4299]

@@Luminelectric welcome just expressing appreciation. Great teaching video.

[@jarrydee2799]

great vid.. Carflex and THWN may have been cheaper for the hot tub whip

[@Luminelectric]

Thanks so much, we will have to look into this tip.

[@MatrinSwin]

Non trade name liquid tight lol

[@marcusscarlett5752]

Is this correct for Canada? 50A Breaker ---> 8/3NMD90 ---> 50A GFCI spa buddy/pack ----> 8/3 TECK 90 armored cable ---> Hot tub (for 50A Hot tub) or 60A Breaker --->6/3NMD90 ---> 60A GFCI spa buddy/pack ----> 6/3 TECK 90 armored cable ---> Hot tub (for 60A Hot tub) just trying to keep it simple. Thanks this was a great video. I just found out that the hot tub I am getting can work on 50A or 60A. Is there an advantage to going with the more expensive 60A setup?

[@Luminelectric]

Yes this is in Canada, and you are correct on your sizes. I have never seen a hot tub that does both 50 and 60 usually they do 120v/15A and another mode for 240v/30A. But to answer your question to the best of my knowledge, I’d say more amps should mean more power so that should increase the ability to heat it and to push water better. Hope that helps

[@sundia4u]

Number 8 wire is good for 40 amps #6 is good for 50 amps !

[@Luminelectric]

Not in Canada 🇨🇦

[@briansmith-ql5yu]

@@Luminelectric don't you just love all these know it alls, lol

[@6615Dean]

Hey great video. Does the GFCI disconnect breaker need to be or can’t be a certain distance from the hot tub?

[@Luminelectric]

In Canada it needs to be at least 10 feet from the tub or protected by a Barrier.

[@6615Dean]

@@Luminelectric and the main breaker can be a normal 50 amp but the disconnect has to be a GFCI? Or can the disconnect be a normal 50 amp disconnect and the main breaker be a GFCI breaker?

[@Luminelectric]

@@6615Dean you could do it either way, the only problem is on Siemens has a brand of spa pack that wouldn’t require a special order breaker.

[@e79422]

Is it possible for these to get wet during a hard rain and trip? We had heavy rain and ours tripped. At least that's what we think happened. Ours is a Square D.

[@Luminelectric]

That is possible, these spa packs are all outdoor rated, so they shouldn’t be water inside but if that’s what happened, it is likely the reason it tripped.

[@e79422]

@@Luminelectric Thanks for input. Hot tub and breaker are new so who knows?

[@JuliusToltesi]

The previous owner at the house I purchased has the wire along the outside foundation. Am I able to run it in the walls with the insulation? I believe it’s a direct burial wire. I find it looks cleaner with one going in through the back and one out vs seeing both.

[@Luminelectric]

In Canada you would be allowed to run an NMWU or teck though an interior wall. PVC pipe used to mechanical protect the cable from damage on exterior where is needed. Hope this helps

[@JuliusToltesi]

@@Luminelectric Thanks for the reply. I was unsure why they ran it outside along the foundation. I thought it had something to do with the size of the wire creating more heat in the exterior walls or something. They never protected it along the foundation so I have to trim the grass in that area by hand to avoid damaging the wire lol. Does your channel have the ability to add the thanks button?

[@SomeTechGuy666]

The house I'm in has the GFCI in the breaker box. There is no separate panel outside. It appears to have been installed by an electrician as there is a tag for it. Has the code changed or is it OK to have the GFCI in the main panel ?

[@Luminelectric]

That is allowed even in todays code the reason’s we use spa packs is: -they are cheaper then the GFCI panel breakers -to give the hot tub tec’s the ability to shut the hot tub down from the outside if they’re working on it. -if there is any problems with the equipment not working the disconnect is closer to the tub.

[@SomeTechGuy666]

@@Luminelectric Don't spa packs use the same GFCI breaker as a panel ? Another reason to use use an external panel is so that you don't have to run Teck cable from the inside panel to the tub. I guess you could use a junction box to connect Teck to Romex so that just the outside portion is Romex ?

[@DarksidePride]

Great video!

[@Luminelectric]

DarksidePride thanks! We are glad we can help!

[@mikelang9828]

Thanks for the video! Is there a benefit to using metal vs plastic? The metal is cheaper at home depot! How come you didn't do the bushing thing when you said "youll need a bushing if youre doing any work in canada" since you said you were in canada (Alberta). Im in Edmonton for reference!

[@breyerpest]

From the sub panel to the spa, can I run 6/3 uf-b in conduit for a 240v 48amp spa?

[@timferraz8614]

The spa kit have to be the same brand of my house breaker?

[@luminelectric4853]

No it doesn’t matter which brand you use. We like the Siemens spa pack.

[@craigkrzykowski5353]

I saw that, the white neutral pigtail from the breaker, connects to the neutral bar on the panel. Correct? Great video

[@Luminelectric]

Hey Craig, your GFI breaker with the pig tailed white, it should have that pig tail wire go to neutral buss bar. Thanks for your questions

[@craigkrzykowski5353]

@@Luminelectric Thank you very much God Bless

[@slablife]

Great work on the install, quick question; you used 8AWG wire, how many amps is that wire rated for? My understanding is it was rated for 40 amps and 6AWG should be used for a 50 amp circuit? Thanks!

[@Luminelectric]

Mike Endsley in Canada a #8 is used for a 40 (FLA) amp tub. In the code your breaker spa pack is rated for up to 125% (40x 1.25= 50 amp spa pack). If your tub is even 1 amp over over 40 you have to run #6.

[@slablife]

Platinum Lighting got it! Thanks for taking the time to explain :)

[@Luminelectric]

We love that our videos are helping people, if you’d like to subscribe to our channel for more content. We are glad we could help!

[@armandojimenez2373]

If I have a 3hp 220v hot tub that is only 9.6 A plus 125% that would be 12FLA and distance from panel is only 40 ft !!!! Will I be ok using #10 wire and what size breaker???

[@Luminelectric]

Armando Jimenez if you have a 3 phase panel , breakers,spa package. You should be able to run #10. your calculation on 3 phase is different it’s 9.6 x square root 3 x 125%=18.59 and here in Canada #10 is good for 30 amps.

[@funnyfarm5555]

'Make sure those are nice and tight'. No offense but your screwdriver is a bit small for tightening those lugs. Another thing I found out is that after ten years one hot lug in my GFCI wasn't as tight as I thought it should be. Found this out when removing Hot tub and all wiring. Good video minus the small screwdriver. I learned about tight lugs from the power company; I moved my meter base from outside the wall to inside the wall during a remodel and I tightened the hell out of those lugs, then the power guy got out his breaker bar and said 'let me help you out here' and turned them another 1/4 turn.

[@Luminelectric]

Good advice, not everything gets filmed on a day like this. We do make sure to tighten our lugs, move the wire and repeat the process. Tight lugs are happy lugs

[@cpthillbilly]

is it cheaper to run the tek cable rather than conduit and wire?

[@Luminelectric]

It would be cheaper to run conduit and wire, it will take longer but you’ll save money.

[@gregmartin1757]

That wouldn't pass code in the U.S.A. #8 NM isn't rated for 50 Amps .would have to be #6 NM or 8 THHN.

[@mikeymyke]

Is this Alberta? I thought the teck cable is supposed to be mechanically protected when it protrudes from the ground because the rubber coating can get damaged?

[@Luminelectric]

Hey mike, yes this is in Alberta, I’ve never had any problems with running teck cable outside and using it to come up from unground in direct burial situations, that’s why we like using it so much. If an inspector has told you otherwise they have to tell you the code rule. I’ve never had any of the city or county inspectors disagree with this method.

[@michaelstaylor2844]

The disconnect is supposed to be within 5 feet of spa so if an issue it can be readily shut off. Hope I didn't burst your bubble.

[@Luminelectric]

No bubble burst, this install is in Canada and the CEC states that it must be at least 3 meters from the tub

[@tdelrio]

Nothing like privacy in your own backyard spa!! 😂

[@Luminelectric]

Terry Del Rio thats right! We love helping people achieve that goal.

[@1topfueldrag]

Terry Del Rio true but no privacy at this location without a 6-8’ privacy fence

[@tdelrio]

1topfueldrag yea.. I was being sarcastic

[@duncanstirling6643]

Thanks for sharing

[@Luminelectric]

No worries

[@sean7193]

You said if using a 6awg wire you need to use a bonding bushing? what changes from 8 to 6? if the box is metal and the armor is bonded to the water tight teck connector which is then bonded to the steel box wouldn't it be the same deal regardless of wire size? or am I missing something? thanks for any info, and excellent video!

[@Luminelectric]

There is a mistake on this video where I said a bonding bushing instead of a plastic bushing. In the CEC all connectors over 1” need a plastic bushing.

[@sean7193]

@Luminelectric thanks. Sorry to push further on this, but what would the purpose of a plastic bushing be? Wouldn't that sever the bonding between the armor and the box? Does it apply for 1" AND larger? Or just anything larger then 1"? Thanks again.

[@Luminelectric]

It apply’s to 1” and anything large that is a metal connector, I think the purpose it to protect the wire from the sharp connector. No bonding purpose on that code 👆. You do have to bond all sizes of metal connectors terminated to a plastic junction box and that is so the connector is bonded and cannot become live.

[@samsangiorgi5620]

great job!!! looks clean and done right. As an electrician myself for the power company, I can relate to how clean work this is. I have to ask though, isn't 8 AWG a little over kill ? or are they running a big hot tub with other electronics? I would think 10 AWG would be enough unless its a high current unit

[@Luminelectric]

Sam Sangiorgi thanks for comments and support, this hot tub has an FLA of 39 amps, we run everything with our derating factors which works out to just shy of 50 amps. So everything for a tub is ran as #8 with 50 amp breakers.

[@spaceghost8995]

I am using #6 conductors actually.

[@ryaandnice]

Most OEM documentation will point to 6 actually.

[@jimelder25]

The one I have requires 8, but is there not any regulation on how close to a water source it should be?

[@jimelder25]

Just seems really close to that....

[@VladOnEarth]

Wouldnt it be easier and possibly better to install the GFCI breaker simply inside a hot tub?

[@Waltwizzle]

I have a zinsco panel I put a 2pole box like yours at my pool pump and used a gfci breaker only difference is there's only one bus bar for ground and Neutral and there's no neutral goin going to the pump just two powers and ground so there's no neutral on gfci breaker. I landed the neutral pigtail on the bus and the reset button on the breaker trips it like should. To my understanding the two powers going to pump are balanced and once one becomes unbalanced it will trip the breaker. It this setup correct 👍 or am I doing something wrong

[@Luminelectric]

Yes wizzle it seems like you have the right idea, I have only installed one tub that didn’t have a neutral termination location at the tub, the inspector said it was fine as long as it’s approved (CSA or UL listed), if you’ve tested it should be fine.

[@Optimization_Coach]

Thanks for the video. I am located in Florida and have a new spa on my pool deck. Anyone aware of the proper location of the disconnect? I have a pool screen and not shure if I can attach the discoonect directly to the side of the tub or anywhere OUTSIDE the pool screen. Thanks much.

[@Luminelectric]

The rules in American are different for sure, here in Canada we cannot have the disconnect within 10 feet from the water source(tub). Always best to ask the local inspector.

[@Optimization_Coach]

@@Luminelectric for sure. Thanks for that reply!

[@juliofabrega916]

I would like to add a wifi switch to turn on/off my hottub system. I have 4 wires coming from my 220V panel breaker: hot-hot-neutral-ground. Can you recommend a wifi switch that fits these 4 wires as input, and also has 4 ports as output?

[@Luminelectric]

Sorry I thought this was answered, I don’t think I’ve ever put in a wifi switch for a hot tub so I feel as though It’d be out my realm to suggest one. Hope that helps

[@Joegest1]

When you identified the blue wire as white and terminated it. Did you put it with the black or red wire? i have a GFI breaker that an electrician put in with only 2 screw terminals black/red. The white Curly going to neutral bus

[@Luminelectric]

You should have a wire coming from your tub feed that is connected under the neutral spot on your breaker, then off the breaker that white curly wire will attach to the neutral bus.

[@Joegest1]

@@Luminelectric Thanks, i will have to take out the GFI like you did in the video, from the front there is only 2 screws. 1 for the black 1 for the red (hots). It was hard to see where you terminated the blue wire..

[@Luminelectric]

@@Joegest1 the spots will be labeled on the breaker in the spa pack, shut off the power and have a look.

[@Joegest1]

@@Luminelectric The spa pack is simple. its the GFI the electrician put in. I cant find the hole for the neutral wire to be terminated

[@Luminelectric]

@@Joegest1 is it a Leviton or homeline panel, it might clip onto the buss in the panel.

[@concerned_2023]

Great video. There are others on the internet that could use your advise. I am looking to install a HVAC, 15A split system and I also wanted other capacities accessible outside, so I am looking at installing W0408ML1125-60 Siemens Spa/Hot Tub Outdoor Panel with 60A GFCI breaker, or perhaps 40A. One 15A circuit will be for a soft tub and is simply plugged into a regular receptacle and has its own CFCI built in to the cord. The other circuits I plan to run are simply for outdoor lighting, power tools etc. I think I would go with a larger amperage only because I may upgrade the HVAC later that would require additional amperage. Otherwise, I would run a maximum of 30 AMPS. Do I need a separate disconnect for the HVAC if the panel is near and the breaker can be flipped if needed?

[@Luminelectric]

Hey Rick, lots to get to in this question. So the 40/50/60 amp spa packs are used to protect large loads, for what your doing it sounds like you should run separate feeds, one #10/2c for your AC this can handle up to 30 amps in a knife disconnect (I have a video on this). Your soft tub sounds like it needs a 15 or 20 amp circuit but the choice is yours here, if you want you can install the larger wire and spa pack still and run your CCTs out of the Siemens spa pack, and yes by the CEC you can run the AC off the spa pack but I wouldn’t for many reasons but the biggest one is it’ll probably nuisance tripping. Hope this helped

[@concerned_2023]

@@Luminelectric Thanks for the response. My application is to install a 12000 btu HVAC outside my garage, run a circuit to the back yard and another to the soft tub and some planning for another HVAC unit on the other other side of the house. The house is a rancher on slab and the garage is finished as it serves as an office for two people. The main panel is in the garage so if I can go out, it would be better than going through the attic. If I have to use a knife disconnect for the HVAC, what would be a good subpanel outside? I did look at the W0408ML1125-60 Siemens Spa/Hot Tub Outdoor Panel with 60A GFCI breaker and now see they have larger amped panels. Or have you seen others specifically for outdoors use? Many thanks.

[@Luminelectric]

seems like you got it figured, that Siemens spa pack is your best bet as it fits regular Siemens breakers as well.

[@nathansoley23]

Is there a need to have solid cable over stranded cabling? I can not tell what you used in the video, but it looks like stranded. Is stranded OK?

[@Luminelectric]

Hey, all cable that is larger then #10 is stranded. There is advantages to flexibility of the cable in stranded. So it’s not like you get much of a choice on anything requiring more then 30 amps (#10 in Canada is good for up to 30 amps) hope this helped. Thank you for watching

[@larrydoss]

That Liquid Tight Flexible Conduit looks like it is much longer than a 6 foot piece. Is that acceptable in Canada? I could be wrong, but I think that the NEC article 350 says you can't use a piece longer than 6'.

[@Luminelectric]

We use the CEC in Canada not the NEC, thanks for your comments

[@Cavalier1025]

My hot tub supplier tells me I need 6ga wire for 50 amp breaker. Is this accurate? I’m in Saskatchewan

[@Luminelectric]

Okay so there could be a miscommunication here, number #8 is good by code for 50 A, but the manufacturer of the tub may ask on nameplate that it be hooked up with #6 which you have to do then. Side note* if that is the case only the part that hooks into the hot tub needs to #6 so it could be hooked up #8 to the spa pack then #6 between spa pack and tub.

[@martianfromspace8292]

is the blue neutral you phased going into to the breaker or straight into the neutral bar its hard to see from the angle

[@Luminelectric]

The blue wire in the teck cable is being used as a neutral and needs to be taped white and attached to the neutral buss. Hope that helps

[@language_and_society]

Thanks for the video. I had a question. We had an outdoor socket installed for the outdoor spa. The socket is right next to the spa (in the corner) and about 10 cm off the ground with an RCBO and a waterproof rating of IP65. Is it safe to have the two right next to eachother?

[@Luminelectric]

The spa pack in Canada has to be 10 feet from the hot tub or protected by a suitable barrier. You can do a weatherproof junction box on the location and extend to a safe location.

[@SilentKat]

So if you didn’t support it below the deck, you could just run it underground?

[@Luminelectric]

We strap the cable if it’s ran under a deck, you can lay it on the ground but that’s not a very appealing install. If you bury this cable you have to bury it 18” minimum

[@SilentKat]

@@Luminelectric great thanks for the quick reply! Are you also allowed to run the nmd through flex tubing? Or would it have to be single conductors? I’m in Canada but can’t seem to find any code for it. As well as, can the flex be ran underground ?

[@Luminelectric]

The code is always up for interpretation so best bet is to call the local inspector and ask, you can’t use metal flex outside but you can use non metallic flex or liquid tight. Where I am you are allowed to sleeve NMD for about 3-4 feet as it leaves the home. You cannot sleeve between 2 outdoor devices like the spa pack and the hot tub though, For that you’d need to run single conductor RW90 or equivalent rated cable.

[@SilentKat]

@@Luminelectricokay gotcha! Thanks for the input! One last question, what size of connector did you use for the teck

[@Luminelectric]

That connector outside is a 3/4” teck connector, on the inside it’s a 3/4” flex connector.

[@vilikarac6776]

Hey great video. Will be doing this soon. Do you have a panel you recommend, I'm in Ontario, Canada. Thanks

[@Luminelectric]

We love the Siemens spa pack as it’s cost affective, has room inside to work and it’s breakers are interchangeable and can be changed to any Siemens stab in style or make it easier to add outdoor receptacle’s.

[@ricer222]

Great video. In the process of wiring my Beachcomber tub in BC. I have a question about connecting to the tub itself. I'm running teck out from the spa box to the tub. Can you run the teck cable directly into the tubs control panel? All the wiring videos I've watched show them using a green insulated ground wire. Do I need to install some kind of extra junction box before going into the tub? Thanks.

[@Luminelectric]

No you don’t need any other junction box, the teck cable with your 2 hots one neutral and a ground will be all you need. If the box to terminate to inside the tub is plastic you’ll need to get a bonding bushing for your connection to bond the armour. That’s about it.

[@ricer222]

@@Luminelectric Perfect thanks! you also mentioned the need for a bonding bushing at the spa panel if using 6/3 cable. Does that still apply even if the panel box is metal?

[@Luminelectric]

Dave mis spoke in the video, the rule we are trying to warn about is if the connector is 1” or larger the connector needs a plastic bushing

[@MrEnigmapaul]

@@Luminelectric I’m going into the tub with 8/3 tech into a 1-1/4” hole in the plastic control box, using reducing bushing and conduit hub. Was going to put a grounding bushing to bond the armour. What were you saying about a platform bushing?

[@timblackwood6755]

Shouldn't the Spa Pack outside the House have to be a minimum 1 metre distance from any water supply to meet Code? You show a garden hose tap outside near the Spa Pack??

[@Luminelectric]

This is in Canada and was inspected by the local inspector here. The spa package is a weatherproof device and is made to be outside.