self contained hot tub

jason h

for years my electrical contractor has installed hot tub services on our new homes the same way with out insident. now our new inspector say we have to run an insulated groung wire or pull single strand in counduit for all hot tub with a light in them ( which is pretty much all of them ) according to different sections of the code we disagree, does anyone have any experience with this issue. thanx

Speedy Petey

Yes, he is misinterpreting NEC 680.23, the section for underwater pool lights. I have had this argument with other electricians who think the same thing.

IMO this section DOES NOT apply since these package spas have the lights all ready wired from the factory.
You ARE NOT wiring an underwater light, you are wiring a factory assembled package spa!

If this were a field assembled spa put together like a pool he would definitely have a point.

Unfortunately, a hard ass inspector can interpret things wrong, yet require you to do them.

If it was me and he pressed the issue I'd go over his head until I got satisfaction.

__________________
Sometimes I feel like if I answer any more questions it is like someone trying to climb over a fence to jump off a bridge and me giving them a boost.

chris75

I agree with Petey, its not the same thing as installing a light after the fact.

NAIL

Is this an outdoor hot tub?

An insulated ground is needed for outdoor tubs regardless of lighting.

chris75

Not really, Check out 680.42 (C)

NAIL

Outdoor hot tubs follow the pool codes section a and b ( or I and II) I don't have the code book handy.

chris75

then I suggest you double check it....

NEC 2005

NAIL

In our area permanently installed outdoor pools are 240v and don't have cords on them. We would use 680-42 exception (a) at the hut tub hookup but run an insulated ground in it as per 680.21 (only on the outdoor portion of the wiring).

Your reference 680.42 (c) only applies to indoors. When you leave the house you need to change methods.

Speedy Petey

Yes, exactly.
I can only assume the OP's inspector is requiring an insulated ground all the way. He is not allowing the exception for the indoor wiring portion in dwellings.

__________________
Sometimes I feel like if I answer any more questions it is like someone trying to climb over a fence to jump off a bridge and me giving them a boost.

chris75

My assumption as well...