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    rle26's Avatar
    rle26 Posts: 3, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Aug 11, 2012, 02:44 PM
    Hot tub wire size
    I am installing the electrical service for a new hot tub. I have done this before and am familiar with safety issues, grounding, gfic requirements, convenience outlet requirement within 10', etc. The installation instructions state that I should use #8 AWG for runs up to 50', and #6 AWG for runs over 50'. I will install a 50A breaker in my house elec service panel and run a line to a gfic disconnect box; then come out of the gfic box to the hot tub. The distance from my electrical service panel to the gfic disconnect box will be 40', and the distance from the gfic disconnect box to the hot tub will be about another 30'. Though this is a total of 80' (well over the 50' maximum), do I need to use #6 AWG wire for both runs, or since I am breaking the total run legnth with two runs under 50', can I use #8 AWG wire for both runs? The town that I live in does not have local elec code or a code enforcement officer. They fall back on NEC. Thank you.
    stanfortyman's Avatar
    stanfortyman Posts: 5,598, Reputation: 279
    Electrical & Lighting Expert
    		  
    #2

    Aug 11, 2012, 03:12 PM
    #6 the whole way.
    And if you are using any NM cable inside the house you'd need #6 anyway.
    rle26's Avatar
    rle26 Posts: 3, Reputation: 1
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    #3

    Aug 12, 2012, 06:59 AM
    Thank you stanfortyman. Very helpful, especially the additional info re: using #6 AWG for NM cable (I did not know that I must upgrade to #6 for NM - even if the run was under 50'). Since I did plan to use sheathed NM cable for the run through the basement from the panel to the GFIC disconnect, that added info is very, very helpful. I will convert to individual stranded #6 AWG in 1" pvc conduit from the outdoor GFIC box to the tub.
    stanfortyman's Avatar
    stanfortyman Posts: 5,598, Reputation: 279
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    #4

    Aug 12, 2012, 07:14 AM
    The reason is that #6 NM cable is rated differently that THHN/THWN conductors in conduit.
    rle26's Avatar
    rle26 Posts: 3, Reputation: 1
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    #5

    Aug 12, 2012, 08:26 AM
    Quote Originally Posted by stanfortyman View Post
    The reason is that #6 NM cable is rated differently that THHN/THWN conductors in conduit.
    Got it; Thanks again stanfortyman!
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