We are installing a whirlpool tub in my new addition bathroom. I have to install two dedicated 20A circuits, one to power tub motor and the other for the tub heater.

I was planning on placing two receptacles each on dedicated circuits into the enclosure that surrounds tub and place them on a GFCI/AFCI combo breaker but after reading today, I may just need a GFCI receptacle for this. Here's what the article says:

According to Section 680 of the NEC, an electrical disconnect device must be installed no closer than 5 feet (horizontal length) of the whirlpool tub but no farther than 10 feet and be readily accessible to the tub occupant. A GFCI with a disconnect button is sufficient to meet this requirement.


How do I go about having a disconnect button 5-10 feet away from the tub? The GFCI with a disconnect button, is that just one with the test and reset button on it?

 

I installed a 60 gallon tub with heater and jets. We used it the first 2 years now it just takes up room. Hot water heater in crawl space had to add a extra heater to fill. I now have 2 30 gallon tanks.

 

Biggest thing I'm unsure of is where to place receptacle (would like them inside tub enclosure), and whether a normal GFCI is considered q disconnect. Not sure why it says 5-10 feet away from tub, I would have a wire running across bathroom (ugly)

 

A cord is considered a means of disconnect. Are you reading the disconnect requirements for a hot tub? They are different than a whirlpool tub.

 

The article said whirlpool tubs but info may not be accurate. Ok to install the 2 receptacles that are on gfci afci breaker at panel under the enclosure to tub which will have access door to motor?

since you said a cord is a means of disconnect, basically just installing a receptacle and not being hardwired to tub motor is sufficient for a disconnect?

hoping to get these homeruns done today.. thanks

 

Yes..... your plan is correct and ok.

 

The GFI cannot be under the skirt of the tub. It needs to be accessible without removing panels.

 

My understanding was that it was ok as long as no tools were needed to remove the panel.

 

Looking at picture of other peoples jetted tubs, I dont see any receptacles or a plug running to a receptacle outside the tub skirting in any of them. Must be accessible as long as I put a hinged door or some access similar?

 

Any clarity on this matter from anyone?

 

Another alternative is to install a dead front GFI in the wall near the tub.

 

I don't believe a GFCI device test button will qualify as a disconnect, but a wall switch would.

 

The code changed and under the skirt does not count as readily accessible.

 

So the receptacle for the heater plug and the motor plug cannot be under the skirting and I believe it cannot be within 5' of the tub. Dont think its feasible to run the cord across the middle of the bathroom floor to the receptacles.

 

The cord.can remain under the skirt. The gfi cannot be under the skirt. It needs to be readily accessible.by.being on the wall nearby or at the panel.