Using a 40A brkr and 50A GFI disconnect for hot tub

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wireman71

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Would it meet code to use a 40 amp breaker to feed a 50 amp gfi spa disconnect. The way I look at it is that the 40 amp breaker protects the circuit. The 50 amp gfi acts as a disconnect and provides GFI capability. Seems fine to me. What do you think?
 
What's the load of the spa?
If the load is non-continuous and is less then 40 A, or if the load is continuous and less than 32 A, you should be good to go.
 
The tub requires a 40 amp circuit. I've be using #8 NM to the 50 amp disconect from a 40 amp breaker then #8 THHN from the disconnect to the hot tub in liquitite.
 
wireman71 said:
The tub requires a 40 amp circuit. I've be using #8 NM to the 50 amp disconect from a 40 amp breaker then #8 THHN from the disconnect to the hot tub in liquitite.
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Is this 40A requirement on a nameplate of a listed product?
 
The manual specs the breaker requirement. Shoot I might even be using a 40A GFCI disco but saw a deal on ebay on a 50. : )
 
wireman71 said:
Would it meet code to use a 40 amp breaker to feed a 50 amp gfi spa disconnect.
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I say yes, just like it's okay to feed a sub-panel with a main breaker larger than its feeder. The breaker will still function as a disconnect, and the GFCI will still detect ground-faults.
 
Sounds like your ok for the supply and the 50 is only for ground fault protection.Am curious as to how 6 feet got you from disconnect to inside the tub .How far away is disconnect ?
 
Waves is good! Especially when it comes to my installations. : ) I had been planning it with my 2002 NEC and have realized that it is changed. Going to use the 2008 as it's available online!
This is what I have:

2008 NEC( http://www.nfpa.org/freecodes/free_access_agreement.asp?id=7008SB)

Outdoor installation of hot tub.

680.40 Comply with part 1 and 4
680.12 Requires a disconnect at least 5 ft away
680.42 Requires that liquitite not be more than 6 ft
680.44 (C) GFCI not required to protect tub (manufacturer requires)

That's what I have for a outside install of a self contained hot tub. The liquitite length is ridiculous but I'm discussing what is legal per NEC.
 
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The way I read it is that you can use NM up to the disco but you need a sheathed or insulated ground to the hot tub. So you could go NM to the disco then THHN to the tub.
 
680.42 Shall comply with parts 1 and 2. Don't see an exception for equipotential grounding. I want to explore this but I need to start soaking so it's off to get materials. : )
 
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