Hot tub heater kit

[ramsy]

There is a WAC rule (Wa state code) on hot tubs dating back 20 + years, as when hot tubs became popular, there were many that were not listed. You might might look at that rule, 296-46B section 690

The WAC rule, 296-46B-680 posted above by Tom Baker, wants only tested / listed hot tub packages, or field evaluation for adding heaters & parts listed separately.

Evaluation should fail if heaters can burn without water, which can damage the heater, result in excess current leakage, or fire, if left unattended.

 

[ramsy]

..Field wiring to NEC requirements is the responsibility of the installer.

For States not subject to a similar special amendment during the last 20 years, it seems the NEC, NFPA-70 680 does not offer a field evaluation option for adding heaters, or anything else.

NEC Article 680 demands "packaged" assemblies for all pool / hot tub equipment. See "Packaged.." in 680.2, 680.42(A) for outdoors, and 680.42(C) for indoors.

It makes sense, if GFCI disconnects for all power sources in 680.44, may shut down the shock hazard, it won't necessarily prevent equipment damage or fire if after-market heaters can burn without water.

 

[curt swartz]

For States not subject to a similar special amendment during the last 20 years, it seems the NEC, NFPA-70 680 does not offer a field evaluation option for adding heaters, or anything else.

NEC Article 680 demands "packaged" assemblies for all pool / hot tub equipment. See "Packaged.." in 680.2, 680.42(A) for outdoors, and 680.42(C) for indoors.

It makes sense, if GFCI disconnects for all power sources in 680.44, may shut down the shock hazard, it won't necessarily prevent equipment damage or fire if after-market heaters can burn without water.

I take it you have never seen an in ground pool or spa? Each piece of equipment is purchased separately and assembled/wired together onsite.
There is no requirement that all pool equipment be a listed factory assembly.

 

[JoeNorm]

I take it you have never seen an in ground pool or spa? Each piece of equipment is purchased separately and assembled/wired together onsite.
There is no requirement that all pool equipment be a listed factory assembly.

I received a reply from my local AHJ on this issue. He responded exactly as above. So according to him this should be OK.

 

[ramsy]

I take it you have never seen an in ground pool or spa? Each piece of equipment is purchased separately and assembled/wired together onsite.
There is no requirement that all pool equipment be a listed factory assembly.

Never deal with permanent new construction, but now I see it in 680.2

Pool. Manufactured or field-constructed equipment designed to contain water on a permanent or semi-permanent basis.

I see how permanent new construction with engineered plans comes together with qualified contractors & inspectors, but not for a portable or above-ground DIY hot tub, subject to 680.42(A & C) requiring "packaged" assemblies.

Except for after-market field evaluations allowed by the WASHINGTON WAC rule in #21, posted by Tom Baker

 

[ramsy]

I received a reply from my local AHJ on this issue. He responded exactly as above. So according to him this should be OK.

Did your WA AHJ wan't a field evaluation per WAC rule, 296-46B-680 , or say there is no requirement that all pool equipment be a listed factory assembly, like Curt said?