National Electrical Code

Pools, Tubs, Fountains, and Spas ― Part 7

Oct. 15, 2019

Highlights of Article 680, Part VII of the 2017 NEC for the requirements for hydromassage tubs

Article 680, Part VII of the 2017 National Electrical Code (NEC) provides the requirements for hydromassage tubs. Here are some highlights of what’s covered in this section of the Code:

The tubs and associated equipment must be on individual branch circuits and GFCI-protected [Sec. 680.71].
All 125V, single-phase receptacles rated 30A or less and located within 6 ft of a tub must also be GFCI-protected [Sec. 680.71].
All the electrical equipment must be accessible without damaging the structure or finish of the building [Sec. 680.73].
Section 680.74 provides a list of five types of metallic equipment that must be bonded together. The first exception note excludes small conductive surfaces not likely to become energized (e.g., water jets). The second exception note excludes double-insulated motors and blowers. So basically, if it's a conductive metal surface of any significance, you bond it. When in doubt, err on the side of caution. It is better to overdo the bonding than to leave a dangerous difference of potential.
When bonding, you must use a solid copper jumper that is 8 AWG or larger [Sec. 680.74(B)]. Bonding means creating a low-impedance metallic path between metallic objects; building steel and ground rods don't qualify.

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.