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    wcwl4's Avatar
    wcwl4 Posts: 1, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Jan 6, 2013, 06:41 PM
    Can I use a switch to share the 50 amp breaker with hot tub and sauna?
    I am out of room on my electrical panel and my wife bought a steam sauna. I heard I can put a "switch" or "converter" on the 50 amp panel I use for my hot tub. When she wants to use the sauna it will shut off power to hot tub and supply power the sauna. Is this accurate?
    creahands's Avatar
    creahands Posts: 2,854, Reputation: 195
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    #2

    Jan 7, 2013, 04:12 AM
    I am not an electrician. Don't know if this is legal.

    There are 2 ways it can be done. One is with a 50 amp manual transfer switch. This would have to be installed by a licensed electrician.

    The other way would be with a knife switch with on-off-on positions. This would also have to be installed by an electrician.

    Chuck
    ma0641's Avatar
    ma0641 Posts: 15,675, Reputation: 1012
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    #3

    Jan 7, 2013, 06:29 AM
    The best thing to do would be to run a sub panel or change out some of the full size breakers for slim double breakers and free up panel space..
    tkrussell's Avatar
    tkrussell Posts: 9,659, Reputation: 725
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    #4

    Jan 7, 2013, 06:32 AM
    Creahands is correct, the switch your referring to is manual transfer switch (MTS) used for connecting generator power to a service.

    It also can take one power source and switch between two loads (circuits).

    Also called a double pole double throw switch.

    The second switch crehands mentions is the same as the MTS.

    You would need 100 amp manual transfer switch. You would need an electrician to install this, and do not be surprised if the cost of the switch alone is expensive.

    You may want to have an electrician look at your panel and determine if additional circuit breakers can be installed, many panels allow hafl size breakewrs to give more circuit capicity. I'm sure you will find this a much less expensive soulution.
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