Plug-and-play hot tubs have surged in popularity thanks to their convenience and affordability. These pre-configured portable spas can be set up in hours by plugging directly into a standard outlet.
But not just any outlet will do! These tubs have powerful motors, heaters, and jets that draw far more power than appliances like lamps or TVs. Trying to run them on small 15-amp circuits is hazardous and likely to trip breakers.
That’s why properly installing a dedicated outlet is so important. This article will explore what defines a dedicated 110V hot tub outlet, why it’s needed, how much power tubs draw, outlet specifications, installation steps, and safety tips when using extension cords and multiple spas.
Let’s dive in!
What is a Dedicated 110V Outlet in a Plug and Play Hot Tub?
A dedicated 110V outlet is an electrical outlet that is wired directly to the home’s electrical panel with its circuit breaker. This provides a consistent power supply to high-wattage appliances like plug-and-play hot tubs without the risk of overloading a shared circuit.
What Makes an Outlet “Dedicated”?
- Exclusive Circuit – The outlet is wired on its circuit with a breaker at the panel. It does not share a circuit with any other outlets, lights, or appliances.
- Direct Wiring – The outlet has wiring that runs directly back to the main electrical panel rather than connecting through other outlets first. This reduces voltage drop over long wire runs.
- High Amp Capacity – Dedicated spa outlets are wired with thicker 12 AWG or 10 AWG wire for handline more amps than typical 15A lighting circuits.
- GFCI Protection – They have GFCI or GFEP protection for safety near water rather than just standard circuit breakers.
Why Do Plug and Play Hot Tubs Need Dedicated Outlets?
Plug-and-play hot tubs refer to self-contained portable spas that can plug directly into an outlet without needing complex wiring or installations. They have powerful jet pumps, heaters, and other components that draw a lot of amperage – often more than a typical 15A household circuit can safely handle.
Some reasons they require dedicated 110V outlets include:
- High Power Draw – Many plug-and-play tubs draw 12A-15A requiring outlets wired for at least 20A circuits. A shared 15A circuit risks overload.
- Consistent Voltage – Avoid voltage drops or fluctuations on shared circuits that may damage components or trigger safety cut-offs.
- Safety – Dedicated GFCI protection is critical near water rather than overloading shared bathrooms or outdoor lighting circuits.
- Code Compliance – Most permit codes require dedicated 20A GFCI outlets for outdoor hot tubs installed near dwellings.
How Much Power Do Plug and Play Hot Tubs Draw?
Hot tubs draw considerable power depending on their size, features, and components. Some typical power draws:
- Small 2-3 person tubs – 12A-15A
- 4-5 person tubs – 15A-20A
- Larger 6+ person tubs – 20A-50A
Other factors affecting power draw include several jets, pumps, blowers, lights, and heaters. Always check the amperage rating in the spa specifications before installing.
What Type of Outlet Do They Require?
Plug-and-play hot tubs normally require a 20 amp NEMA 5-20R GFCI-protected outlet.
Key specifications include:
- Voltage: 110-120V
- Amps: 20A minimum circuit
- Receptacle: NEMA 5-20R
- GFCI Protection: GFCI outlet or circuit breaker
- Covered: Weatherproof bubble cover
This type of 20A outdoor outlet has a T-slot that accepts both 15A and 20A plugs. So it can support appliances that draw 15A or 20A.
Where Should The Outlet Be Located?
The dedicated spa outlet should be located:
- Outdoors – At least 5-10 feet from the hot tub’s final installation location
- Above Ground – At least 12 inches above ground level to avoid rain or flooding
- GFCI Protected – On a GFCI-protected circuit
- Accessible – Easily accessible to power on or reset
- Covered – Under an outdoor-rated bubble cover
The wire run from the main panel to the outlet should be as direct and short as possible.
Installing a Dedicated Hot Tub Outlet
Installing a proper dedicated outlet for a plug-and-play hot tub requires basic electrical skills and tools. Key steps include:
- Turn off the power at the main breaker panel
- Run appropriate 12 AWG or 10 AWG wire from the main panel to the outlet location. Use a 20A GFCI breaker.
- Install outdoor rated weatherproof electrical box at proper height above ground.
- Connect wires securely using proper connectors and grounding.
- Install 20A GFCI receptacle supporting NEMA 5-20P plugs. Test for proper GFCI function.
- Attach weatherproof protective in-use bubble cover.
- Label the circuit clearly as “Hot Tub Outlet” at both the breaker and receptacle.
- Turn the power back on and test the outlet for voltage.
Consult an electrician if uncomfortable doing this yourself as improper wiring can risk fire or electrocution. Proper permits are also required in many areas.
Using Extension Cords
It is not generally recommended to use extension cords with plug-and-play hot tubs. The high current draw over longer distances can lead to unsafe voltage drops or overheating.
If necessary for temporary use, only commercial-grade outdoor-rated cords should be used:
- 12 AWG minimum thickness
- 20A rating
- GFCI protection
- No longer than 25 feet
The cord must be fully uncoiled and not left coiled under load which can overheat the coils. Inspect cords for damage to the plugs, cables, or ground pins before each use. Immediately replace damaged extension cords.
Connecting Multiple Hot Tubs on One Outlet
Sharing a single 20A outlet between multiple plug-and-play hot tubs or appliances at the same time is generally not recommended or safe.
The combined current draw may easily overload a 20A circuit. Most electrical codes do not allow this.
Ideally, install additional dedicated 20A outlets if wanting to run multiple portable spas in adjacent locations.
If adding a subpanel, ensure it also uses GFCI breakers designed for hot tub use.
Conclusion
In closing, installing a dedicated 20 amp GFCI outlet wired on its breaker provides the type of performance and safety plug-and-play hot tubs required. While it’s convenient to simply plug them into any outdoor receptacle, the dangers of overloading a shared circuit are too great to ignore.
Do it right from the start by getting the proper outlet in place before delivery so you can enjoy bubbling bliss the same day rather than jury-rigging temporary extension cords.
And be sure to keep all GFCI outlets well above ground level to prevent weather or moisture damage that could put a damper on your relaxation plans. Follow these electrical guidelines for tubs to ensure safe operation for years of hydrotherapy at home.
