When you think of a hot tub, what comes to mind? Perhaps an image of snow-capped mountains or tropical palm trees. Maybe even a cozy cabin in the woods. If you live in Canada, what springs to mind is probably electrical code compliance. After all, hot tubs are not exactly the sort of thing that springs up readily in our frosty northern climate. Read more to find out more about Canada Electrical Code for Hot Tubs. There are some things you might not know about hot tub electrical codes, but they’re very important if you want to install one in your home.
Planning a new hot tub installation? Ensure safety and compliance with professional Hot Tub Electrical Installation by Wilson Electric. Our experienced Whitby Electricians and Durham Region Electricians deliver expert GFCI protection and dedicated circuits for peace of mind.
Importance of Hot Tub Electrical Code in Canada
If you’re planning on installing a hot tub in your backyard, you might want to take a look at the hot tub electrical code in Canada. Why? There are a couple of reasons. First, you want to be safe. Hot tubs need high-voltage power sources to provide the right amount of power and heat. Unsafe wiring can cause fires, electrocution and more. Second, you don’t want to be a nuisance to your neighbours. Hot tubs are loud, and they can emit strong odours. If your hot tub violates electrical code, you can expect to hear from your neighbours. They might even report you to the authorities.
The Hot Tub Electrical Code in Canada
There are a few items to look out for when it comes to the electrical code for hot tubs in Canada. First, you’ll want to ensure that you have a GFCI outlet within 6 feet of the hot tub. That outlet should also be GFCI-protected. Second, you will want to use a 16- or 20-amp breaker for the tub, and that breaker needs to be labelled “SW” to indicate that it is safe to use with the tub. Third, you’ll want to make sure the hot tub allows for a ground fault trip. If a circuit has a ground fault, it is possible that some of the current will find a path to earth through a person. With a ground fault trip, the circuit breaker will trip if enough current is flowing through the ground fault. The breaker will remain off until the source of the problem is removed.
Know the Differences Between a Hot Tub and a Spa
If you have ever done any research on hot tubs, you might have come across the terms “spa” and “hot tub.” These two products are often used interchangeably, but they are actually very different things. A hot tub is a large, open-top tub that uses jets to create a current that people can swim against. A spa is an enclosed tub that uses jets to create a current that people can swim against. The difference between the two is that a hot tub is an outdoor appliance that needs to be plugged in, whereas a spa is an indoor appliance that is plugged in. A hot tub is also used for therapeutic purposes, such as lowering blood pressure, relieving muscle aches, and improving sleep. Hot tubs have powerful jets that can deliver a range of hydrotherapy benefits. A spa, on the other hand, is used solely for relaxation.
Where You Can Install a Hot Tub
If you want to install a hot tub, you will need to keep in mind where you are going to place it. Hot tubs need to be installed in a place that is safe and out of the way of foot traffic. They also need to be installed in a place where they don’t pose a risk to anyone. You will also want to consider how much noise the hot tub will make. Hot tubs are noisy appliances that emit a variety of sounds, including hissing and gurgling noises. If you want to install a hot tub in a quiet neighbourhood, you might want to find a way to dampen the noise.
How to Meet the Hot Tub Electrical Code in Canada
Installing a plug-in hot tub in Canada is a little different than doing so in the United States. In the U.S., you need a dedicated circuit to power your hot tub. In Canada, however, you need to plug into a dedicated circuit that is rated for 15 amps or less. You can then plug the hot tub into that circuit. This setup means that the hot tub is drawing power from the same breaker as other appliances. If the hot tub draws more power than the breaker allows, the breaker will trip, shutting off the electricity to the hot tub. You will also want to check with your local utility company to make sure that you have enough power to support the hot tub. If you don’t have enough power, they will be able to recommend a solution.
Final Words: Don’t Forget the Safety!
Hot tubs are a wonderful way to relax and unwind after a long day, but you need to make sure you meet electrical code in Canada when installing one. You also need to keep in mind where you want to install it, how you are going to silence the noise, and how much power it will use. You will also want to make sure that you keep the hot tub away from children. Hot tubs are often used for therapeutic purposes, and they are also a great way to lower blood pressure and relieve muscle aches.
If you’re considering installing a hot tub, contact Wilson Electric today. Our certified electricians will evaluate the electrical system you have in place for deficiencies and hot tub electrical code in Canada to ensure the safety of your hot tub. For more information contact us toll-free at (365) 601-6875
