Q8. What are the disconnect requirements for outdoor spas or hot tubs?
A8. A maintenance disconnecting means is required for an outdoor spa or hot tub. The maintenance disconnecting means must be readily accessible and located within sight from the spa or hot tub [680.12], but not less than 5 ft horizontally from the inside walls of the spa or hot tub unless separated by a solid fence, wall, or other permanent barrier [680.22(C)].
In other than a single-family dwelling, a clearly labeled emergency spa or hot tub water recirculation and jet system shutoff must be supplied. The emergency shutoff must be readily accessible to the users and located not less than 5 ft away, but adjacent to and within sight of the spa or hot tub. [680.41]. Either the maintenance disconnecting means required by 680.12 or a pushbutton that controls a relay located in accordance with this section can be used to meet the emergency shutoff requirement.
The purpose of the emergency shutoff is to protect users. Deaths and injuries have occurred in less than 3 ft of water because individuals became stuck to the water intake opening.
Q9. What are the GFCI requirements for outdoor spas or hot tubs?
A9. GFCI protection is required for cords 15 ft or less in length used for cord and plug connection of outdoor spas and hot tubs [680.42(A)(2)]. Also, all receptacles rated 15 or 20A, 125V through 250V supplying cord-and-plug connected pump motors for a permanently installed outdoor spa, or outdoor hot tub must be GFCI protected [680.22(A)(5)].
