Sauna---GFI Required?

[gregoryelectricinc]

I have always benn taught that these stand-alone sauna kits need to be protected by a GFI breaker.
I now have a customer that claims that they do not need to have GFI protection. I can't seem to find a code reference to back up my opinion that it does need GFI. Am I wrong? Every bit (which ain't much some days) of common sense I have says to put it on a GFI. Any opinions and/or code ref's?

 

[earlydean]

Re: Sauna---GFI Required?

Read to the manufacturing installation instructions. Follow them. End of story.

 

[jimwalker]

Re: Sauna---GFI Required?

Can't find anything special on saunas.I do believe being people usually takes showers before going in them that a gfci is wise,but required might depend on where this is installed.Any one able to site a code #?

 

[moorepower]

Re: Sauna---GFI Required?

Sauna have water so way would you not protect them with a gfci. How do you control the sauna and where are the controls located.
I have found your ahj to be helpful in these cases.

That is if your ahj is helpful!!

 

[electricmanscott]

Re: Sauna---GFI Required?

There is no need for gfci protecttion that I can find. A sauna is simply a room lined with wood with an electric heater. The only water would be a small bucket thet you pour on the heating unit to create a little moisture.

I do believe being people usually takes showers before going in them that a gfci is wise

Better gfci my bed!

 

[electricmanscott]

Re: Sauna---GFI Required?

Here is link that might help. Or not! Either way check it out.
Disco Squirrels sing "Disco Sauna" www.discosquirrels.com

 

[canadian]

Re: Sauna---GFI Required?

Electroman....I take it from your link we should not GFCI the sauna and perhaps leave the live conductors exposed to fry those pesty rodents! Thanks for the link....it was a good Saturday night laugh!

 

[electricmanscott]

Re: Sauna---GFI Required?

After the party I did a little more research. All the tech info I found specify either 120 or 240 dedicated circuit depending on the unit size. No mentions of gfci protection.