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-   -   Wiring Whirlpool Tub (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/showthread.php?t=180478)

  • Feb 4, 2008, 11:21 PM
    kimo
    Wiring Whirlpool Tub
    I'm installing a whirlpool tub in my master bedroom. The elctrical requirement is a dedicated circuit for the pump and a circuit for the heater. Both will need to be GFCI protected. I ran a 12/3 cable thinking I can use a double pole 20 A GFCI breaker. However, I have heard it will not work as it cannot monitor both circuit which I don't understand why not since it's double pole. I have not purchased the breaker since I don't want to spend the $$$ on something that will not work. Thank you for your feedback.
  • Feb 5, 2008, 12:50 AM
    KISS
    You haven't specified the electrical requirements: e.g.

    Heater 15.4 A 240 V 20 A GFCI Circuit breaker recommended
    Pump 1/2 HP 120 V 15 A GFCI Circuit breaker recommended

    You should also specify the distance to the breaker box.
  • Feb 5, 2008, 10:07 AM
    kimo
    The electrical requirements are:

    1) heater - 120 Volts 12.5 amps
    2) pump - 120 Volts 7.5 amps

    The distance from the breaker box to the outlet is 60 feet.
  • Feb 5, 2008, 11:36 AM
    ballengerb1
    So you are saying you ran just one 12-3 cable up to the tub, right?
  • Feb 5, 2008, 11:49 AM
    kimo
    Yes, I only ran one 12-3 cable up to the tub.
  • Feb 5, 2008, 11:56 AM
    tkrussell
    Then a 2 pole GFI breaker will work fine.
  • Feb 5, 2008, 12:27 PM
    KISS
    Actually if you ran a 12-3 with ground, your probably OK with a 240 V 2 pole 20 Amp tandem GFCI breaker if the distance is 59 feet, 3% drop at 59 feet, and the heater load is classified as operating more than 3 hours at a time. The pump load isn't a problem.

    The neutral will only carry the difference current of 12.5-7.5 amps, so you won't overload the neutral. Both circuits will trip simultaneously which would be an advantage.

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