Overview

Revisions to the NEC accomplish two very distinct goals. Not only do revisions update requirements to reflect new technologies, but they also clarify any confusion to the previous code language. Clarification is precisely what has occurred in Section 680.41 for the 2023 revision of the NEC. This section now clarifies some previous confusion as to the requirements for the location of emergency switches for spas and hot tubs. Furthermore, the layout of the section has been revised to aide in ease of navigation. These changes also clarify these requirements for local AHJs to prevent any further misunderstandings.

Applying the 2023 Code

Section 680.41 has been revised in the 2023 NEC. Previously, the section consisted of a single paragraph detailing the requirements for emergency disconnects for spas and hot tubs. The new revision has split the section into two subdivisions. Subdivision (A) addresses emergency switches for spas and hot tubs and declares they are required for “other than one-family dwellings.” This means very clearly that single family dwellings are exempt from this rule and should clear up any confusion in the field. Subdivision (B) outlines the requirements for equipment exceeding the low-voltage contact limit. It states that for other than self-contained spas/hot tubs, equipment exceeding the low-voltage contact limit shall be located at least 5 feet from the inside edge of the spa/hot tub. The rearrangement of this section will help to clear up confusion that existed in previous section of The Code.

What’s New for the 2023 NEC?

2020 NEC : In the 2020 NEC Section 680.41 read as follows

680.41 Emergency Switch for Spas and Hot Tubs.

A clearly labeled emergency shutoff or control switch for the purpose of stopping the motor(s) that provides power to the recirculation system and jet system shall be installed at a point readily accessible to the users and not less than 1.5 m (5 ft) away, adjacent to, and within sight of the spa or hot tub. This requirement shall not apply to one-family dwellings.

2023 NEC

In the 2023 NEC Section 680.41 now read as follows:

680.41 Location of Other Equipment.

(A) Emergency Switch for Spas and Hot Tubs.

For other than one-family dwellings, a clearly labeled emergency shutoff or control switch for the purpose of stopping the motor(s) that provides power to the recirculation system and jet system shall be installed at a point readily accessible to the users and not less than 1.5 m (5 ft) away, adjacent to, and within sight of the spa or hot tub.

(B) Equipment Exceeding the Low-Voltage Contact Limit.

Except for self-contained spas and hot tubs, equipment with ratings exceeding the low-voltage contact limit shall be located at least 1.5 m (5 ft) horizontally from the inside walls of a spa or hot tub, unless separated from the spa or hot tub by a solid fence, wall, or other permanent barrier.