The minimum distance between any receptacle and a plug-in 120-volt hot tub is 6 feet, including from the receptacle connected to it, per National Electrical Code (NEC 680.34). The required distance is measured from the inside wall of the spa tub and defined as “the shortest path the supply cord of an appliance connected to the receptacle would follow without piercing a floor, wall, ceiling, doorway with hinged or sliding door, window opening, or other effective permanent barrier."

   The cord should not be longer than 15 feet [NEC 680.42(A)(2)], and must have a GFCI-device that is an integral part of the attachment plug or within 6 inches of it (NEC 630.31). Also, all 120-volt receptacles within 20 feet of an outdoor tub must be GFCI-protected.

    So, the hot tub installed right next a wall receptacle in the photo above is “just not right.” Unfortunately, we often see this safety defect at the screen porch or patio of homes here in The Villages, Florida.

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Here’s links to a collection of our blog posts about POOL AND SPA:

• Does an above-ground pool require a building permit? 

• How long does a pool finish last?

• How can I tell if my pool is no longer level? 

• Does an above-ground pool have to comply with code requirements for a swimming pool barrier?

• What are the pros and cons of vinyl liner vs fiberglas vs concrete in-ground pools? 

• Can a pool with green, cloudy water be inspected?

• Should I refinish-resurface my pool with paint or plaster?

• Why are pool pumps now required to be variable speed? 

• What are the clearance requirements for an overhead electric service drop that is directly over or near a swimming pool?

• Is the deteriorated finish of a concrete pool shell only a cosmetic problem?

• When was pool bonding first required by code? 

• When was it first required for pool pumps to have GFCI protection?

• How do I determine the age of an AquaCal pool/spa heat pump from the serial number?

• When  were receptacle outlets near a pool first required to be GFCI?

• What is the code requirement for ceiling (paddle) fans near or above a swimming pool? 

• How can I tell if my pool is leaking? 

• What are the pool safety barrier requirements for Florida? 

• How many children drown each year in a pool or spa? 

• Why is my pool ladder rusting? 

    Visit our POOL AND SPA page for other related blog posts on this subject, or go to the INDEX for a complete listing of all our articles.