What Is a Hot Tub Disconnect?
When buying a hot tub, you will probably come across models that have different types of electrical capacities. There are 110-volt plug-and-play models and 220-volt models that require electrical work to be installed.
The main difference between the two is that a 110-volt model will plug into a regular electrical outlet. These hot tubs are known as plug-and-play models.
A 220-volt model requires a specialized outlet. It will allow the tub to draw more power to heat the water faster and give you more power to run your jets. It will also allow you to shut down power to the hot tub without having to run inside your home. This specialized outlet is known as a hot tub disconnect.
The extra power will let the user run the hot tub jets on high while heating the water, something not possible with the plug-and-play models: you’re left to choose one or the other with those hot tub versions. This is why most people choose 220V hot tub models. They are the easiest and most luxurious to use.
In this article, we’re going to explain what a hot tub disconnect is. We will cover:
- How a hot tub disconnect works
- What to know before installing a hot tub disconnect
- How far a hot tub disconnect has to be from your hot tub
Before we get into details, it should be pointed out that this article is for information purposes only. We don’t recommend using this article as a guide on how to work with electrical wiring and outlets. If you purchase a hot tub, you should hire a licensed electrician or an experienced hot tub installation expert to ensure it is wired up correctly.
How Does A Hot Tub Disconnect Work?
A hot tub disconnect is a secure and separate electrical panel that provides power for a 220-volt hot tub. It allows the tub to be easily disconnected from the power supply and provides safety from electrical shock when in or around the tub.
It will also have a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) that will automatically cut the power if a ground fault occurs. This happens when a wire carrying a current touches a ground wire or other grounded component. It can be caused by an overloaded circuit, damaged wiring or exposure to moisture, dust or other contaminants.
These elements are standard on every 220V hot tub installation.
What Do You Need to Know When Installing a Hot Tub Disconnect?
Because a hot tub disconnect acts as a safety measure, there are specifications on how it should be installed. The general rules are that it must have a GFCI protection, be readily accessible to the hot tub users and within line of sight of the hot tub.
The disconnect must also be placed at least ten feet away from the water’s edge. This allows users to quickly shut off the hot tub if any emergencies occur but protects them from electric shock.
What Amperages Are Available?
The most common hot tub disconnects are available in a 50 or 60 amperage capacity. For larger capacity hot tubs with multiple heaters, higher amperage models also exist, but they’re not as common.
Although a 50 amp capacity should be sufficient for most hot tubs, the higher amperage capacity may be useful for people with larger tubs or for those in colder climates who will need to run their water heater while the tub is in use. Have your electrician check with your owner’s manual to find out what is recommended for your particular model.
How Far Away Does a Hot Tub Disconnect Need to Be?
In Canada, a hot tub disconnect must be 10 feet away from the hot tub.
What is a Hot Tub Disconnect For?
A hot tub disconnect is a safety measure for any hot tub installed with 220V power. This specialized outlet allows the hot tub to draw more power to heat the water faster and includes a GFCI.
All hot tub electrical work should be done by a licensed electrician. If you’d like to connect to one, you can contact your local retailer to speak to one who has experience in installing hot tubs.
