Code Quiz of Day

Minimum Clearances for Electrical Equipment Near Spas and Hot Tubs

Aug. 25, 2014

Part IV of Article 680 notes that electrical installations at spas and hot tubs shall comply with the provisions of Part I and Part IV of this article.

Mike Holt

Luminaires and ceiling fans located over or within 5 ft, measured horizontally, from the inside walls of an indoor spa or hot tub shall have a mounting height of not less than _____ above the maximum water level when not GFCI protected.

a) 4.7 ft
b) 5 ft
c) 7 ft - 6 in.
d) 12 ft

See answer and applicable Code reference

The correct answer is: d) 12 ft

Part IV of Article 680 notes that electrical installations at spas and hot tubs shall comply with the provisions of Part I and Part IV of this article. The installation of luminaires, lighting outlets and ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans near indoor spas or hot tubs shall comply with the requirements of Sec. 680.43(B). More specifically, as per 680.43(B)(1)(a), "Where no GFCI protection is provided, the mounting height shall not be less than 12 ft."

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.