680.41(B) Equipment Location (spas and hot tubs)

The requirements for equipment near hot tubs and spas were expanded.

[@mikaelfehlberg6854]

Kettle of fish? I've never heard that phrase, but I like it. Thanks for the video Ryan!

[@electricalron]

Nice video Ryan.

[@denverbraughler3948]

If there’s a circulation pump, heating element, or other equipment used in the basin/tub, it needs to be GFCI protected. But people and equipment should not be in the tub while energized. If there’s metal siding on the house, that provides a conductive pathway to the panel enclosure essentially no different than if the equipment were immediately adjacent. It makes sense that outlets and switches should be far enough away that people can’t operate them from the tub/basin. I think that someone also shouldn’t be able to work on equipment while in the tub. This change seems to prohibit that going forward. I would like to know more about the concern that the panel could become energized. It’s already bonded to the neutral conductor and electrode. If there’s a wider concern, then an equipotential grid is needed.

[@tomp9447]

Is there any concern with the un bonded rain gutter and rail in the photo? Thanks for another great video.

[@Heynoweasy]

The short answer is HELL YES.

[@ronbonick4265]

question Can a meter combo serve as a disconnect for a hot tub? or does it need to be a separate disconnecting device?

[@randallcalhoun6604]

So this point has been a bit confusing for me. We install standby generators. A generator IS equipment but is NOT an outlet. So does the 5 ft rule apply? 680.22d 10 ft rule? I have never been clear on this and try to make it 10ft...... Any guidance on this? Are pools different than spas?

[@realvanman1]

What do they mean by self contained spa or hot tub? Sounds like an important exception.

[@johnjaegerjr6539]

Hi Ryan, I have a question regarding the installation of a new tub. I have done many of them in my day but in looking thru article 680 , the 2023 version I cannot find the reference that allows the use of Romex with an uninsulated ground wire on the interior portion of the house ? So my question is, is it still allowed ? My plan was to use a #6-3 with uninsulated ground wire romex to a JB where it exits the house where PVC conduit will be used to Disconnect than on to hot tub with all 4 insulated conductors. Thank you in advance for any help with finding this.

[@RyanJacksonElectrical]

The requirement for an insulated EGC for the interior wiring was removed in 2020 or perhaps 2017, I don't recall which.

[@brianallen8015]

Is the hot tub in the picture not "self contained?"

[@denverbraughler3948]

It would be if the side panels were fastened in place.