Code Q&A

July 8, 2004
Q. Is a disconnecting means for an outdoor spa or hot tub at a single-family dwelling required to be located within sight of the unit? A. Per 680.12 and 680.42, a maintenance disconnecting means shall be installed within sight of spa and hot tub ...















Q.
Is a disconnecting means for an outdoor spa or hot tub at a single-family dwelling required to be located within sight of the unit?

A. Per 680.12 and 680.42, a maintenance disconnecting means shall be installed within sight of spa and hot tub equipment. It shall be located not less than 5 feet 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 shall also be supplied. The emergency shutoff shall be readily accessible to the users and located not less than 5 feet away, but adjacent to and within sight of the spa or hot tub (680.41). To meet the emergency shutoff requirement, you could use the maintenance disconnecting means required by 680.12 or a pushbutton that controls a relay and is located in accordance with 680.41.

The emergency shutoff is meant to protect equipment users. Deaths and injuries have occurred in less than 3 feet of water because individuals became stuck to the water intake opening. This requirement applies to spas and hot tubs installed indoors as well as outdoors.

Got a Code question for Mike? Send it to him at [email protected].

About the Author

Mike Holt

Mike Holt is the owner of Mike Holt Enterprises (www.MikeHolt.com), one of the largest electrical publishers in the United States. He earned a master's degree in the Business Administration Program (MBA) from the University of Miami. He earned his reputation as a National Electrical Code (NEC) expert by working his way up through the electrical trade. Formally a construction editor for two different trade publications, Mike started his career as an apprentice electrician and eventually became a master electrician, an electrical inspector, a contractor, and an educator. Mike has taught more than 1,000 classes on 30 different electrical-related subjects — ranging from alarm installations to exam preparation and voltage drop calculations. He continues to produce seminars, videos, books, and online training for the trade as well as contribute monthly Code content to EC&M magazine.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EC&M, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Electrical Conduit Comparison Chart

CHAMPION FIBERGLASS electrical conduit is a lightweight, durable option that provides lasting savings when compared to other materials. Compare electrical conduit types including...

Fiberglass Electrical Conduit Chemical Resistance Chart

This information is provided solely as a guide since it is impossible to anticipate all individual site conditions. For specific applications which are not covered in this guide...

Considerations for Direct Burial Conduit

Installation type plays a key role in the type of conduit selected for electrical systems in industrial construction projects. Above ground, below ground, direct buried, encased...

How to Calculate Labor Costs

Most important to accurately estimating labor costs is knowing the approximate hours required for project completion. Learn how to calculate electrical labor cost.