Hot Tub Disconnect and Equipotential Bonding?

R

raykit65

Member
Location
Franklin, TN
Occupation
Electrician
Here is my scenario....

I have a new free standing hot tub that was installed during a deck renovation that replaced an existing hot tub.
The hot tub is installed on slab but with an elevated deck built around it so just the hot tub edge sits above the deck.
The hot tub is under a roof and inside room with solid wood walls about 30" tall and screen above.
I am replacing some conduit and wire (previous 'electrician' sleeved 6/3 under the deck along with other violations)

Here are my concerns as I don't do a lot of hot tubs....

The existing disconnect is less than 5' but on the other side of the 30" wall. It is technically out of sight when you are inside the tub but clearly visible as you are walking in and out. Is this location fine or do I need to relocate it onto the house where it is 5'+ away and visible through the screen door while in the tub?

The tub sits above the 28" rule for equipotential bonding however the deck changes that. Do I need to install the bonding wires around the tub?

**See attached pic and rough sketch**
Hot tub sketch.jpg


Frevert tub.jpg
 
If the tubs listed as self contained I believe it’s called you don’t need an equal potential bond— there a section that allows a barrier for closer disconnects .
As long as you can see the disconnect some were along the hot tub you fine. Cut a peice of plexy glass on back side of the disconnect as long as you can see it never said what part you have to see
 
AC\DC said:
If the tubs listed as self contained I believe it’s called you don’t need an equal potential bond— there a section that allows a barrier for closer disconnects .
As long as you can see the disconnect some were along the hot tub you fine. Cut a peice of plexy glass on back side of the disconnect as long as you can see it never said what part you have to see
Click to expand...
Thanks. You're right, the half wall should negate the 5' rule in 680.13. The 'within sight' portion is what I was concerned with. Plexiglass is an interesting idea.

Regarding the equipotential bonding, the self contained unit is actually number (1) of the stipulations listed.....
680.42(B)
(1) The hot tub is listed, labeled, and identified as a self-contained hot tub for aboveground use.
(2) The hot tub is not identified as suitable only for indoor use
(3) the hot tub is on or above grade
These 3 are all met. The last requirement is where I have the question
(4) The top rim of the hot tub is at least 28 in. above any perimeter surface within 30 in. of the hot tub. Nonconductive external steps do not apply to the rim height measurement.

A wood deck isn't conductive, do I refer to the deck as external steps? I was just hoping to find my specific situation. Decks built around hot tubs are common enough that I would think they would be addressed.
 
I believe Tn is under the 2017 so I will use that as a guide. Except #2 is the kicker. I read that if the tub is sunk into the floor and assuming it is sitting on that slab below then I believe you will need to install equipotential bonding. Inspectors in TN may see it differently.

680.43 Indoor Installations.
A spa or hot tub installed indoors shall comply with the provisions of Parts I and II of this article except as modified by this section and shall be connected by the wiring methods of Chapter 3.
Exception No. 1:
Listed spa and hot tub packaged units rated 20 amperes or less shall be permitted to be cord-and-plug-connected to facilitate the removal or disconnection of the unit for maintenance and repair.
Exception No. 2:
The equipotential bonding requirements for perimeter surfaces in 680.26(B)(2) shall not apply to a listed self-contained spa or hot tub installed above a finished floor.
Exception No. 3:
For a dwelling unit(s) only, where a listed spa or hot tub is installed indoors, the wiring method requirements of 680.42(C) shall also apply.
Click to expand...
 
raykit65 said:
Thanks. You're right, the half wall should negate the 5' rule in 680.13. The 'within sight' portion is what I was concerned with. Plexiglass is an interesting idea.

Regarding the equipotential bonding, the self contained unit is actually number (1) of the stipulations listed.....
680.42(B)
(1) The hot tub is listed, labeled, and identified as a self-contained hot tub for aboveground use.
(2) The hot tub is not identified as suitable only for indoor use
(3) the hot tub is on or above grade
These 3 are all met. The last requirement is where I have the question
(4) The top rim of the hot tub is at least 28 in. above any perimeter surface within 30 in. of the hot tub. Nonconductive external steps do not apply to the rim height measurement.

A wood deck isn't conductive, do I refer to the deck as external steps? I was just hoping to find my specific situation. Decks built around hot tubs are common enough that I would think they would be addressed.
Click to expand...
Yes it’s non conductive- your good you may have to fight it but that’s half the fun
 
Dennis Alwon said:
Why do you think sleeving the conductors isn't compliant? Are the conductors in a raceway? If so, then that is compliant.
Click to expand...
They probably used NMB —-

Dennis is right I was thinking outdoor but it’s enclosed indoor- just look at that section… but push the grey in your favor—


As far as above the floor—- another terrible worded section- - if It has a 6” lip it’s above the floor- but i see what you mean i would fight it
 
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