Jacuzzi 120v or 240v power supply

[Greg1707]

I installed a Jacuzzi that had several power options. The spa came from the factory ready for 120 Volt/ 15 amps with a power cord. I reconfigured the power panel per instructions for a 240 volt/40 amp hard wired installation.

It seems surprising that this equipment can run successfully at such different power supplies. What is the benefit of all the additional work involved with the high voltage setup vs just plugging the thing into the wall outlet?

 

[LarryFine]

With most convertible hot tubs, the high-voltage connection allows the heater and high motor speed to run simultaneously, and at four times the heating power.

On low voltage, the heater only runs during low-speed circulation; when the motor switches to high speed, the heater must turn off to allow it to run on 15a.

 

[infinity]

You want to use the higher voltage if possible for the reason that Larry mentioned, 4X the heating output.

 

[Jraef]

The result to the owner of using the lower power is that the tub takes a LOT longer to heat up and can cool down fast on cold nights with the air bubbles going (because as said, the heater has to turn off when doing that).