Why You Should Not Hot Wire Your Hot Tub Yourself

Conventional hot tub installation can be challenging. Installing the wiring can take a long time and require much effort. You may need to upgrade your electrical service to accommodate a new hot tub. In addition, DIY wiring can be dangerous, so you should think twice before installing a hot tub.

DIY Hot Tub Wiring Mistakes

1. Tripping The Breaker

You may have a problem when the breaker trips while taking a hot bath. The cause could be as simple as overuse, normal wear and tear, or something more serious, like loose wiring and improper connections. These problems could hurt you and even start a fire in your home. Your breaker is telling you that something is wrong; take heed.

2. Bonding Mistakes

Any combination of water, electricity and metal parts can be dangerous. That's why components carrying current should be properly connected to metal parts with insulated wires and a grounding electrical panel by a professional. Careless mistakes can create a danger of electrocution or shock to hot tub users.

3. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter Protection

When the electrical outlet is outdoors and close to water, it should have ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection. This protection is necessary because of the risk of a short circuit resulting in electrocution. This kind of failure is common, especially if people do not install or test GFCI circuits often.

4. Grounding Mishaps

The hot tub must be wired to the ground, allowing electricity to be safely channelled into the earth in an emergency. If you skip this step, you'll create an unexpected electrical hazard for both yourself and your guests.

Benefits of Hiring an Electrician

The risks of DIY hot tub wiring are no joke, but hiring a trusted electrician to do the job well done also ensures a few more benefits:

1. They Know Electrical Codes

To become an electrician, a person must be trained in the demands of the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) and local electrical codes, including their many revisions and updates. These rules enable them to pull the necessary permit from the Electrical Inspection Authority and wire your hot tub in a way that will both ensure your safety and satisfy the requirements for passing an electrical inspection.

2. They Are Insured

If the unthinkable happens, and your hot tub malfunctions, leading to an insurance settlement, the insurance provider needs proof that the installation was up to industry standards. If you skipped a critical step like having a pro check the installation, your prospects of a settlement are nearly nonexistent. 

Also, suppose circumstances beyond your control force your insurer to order a home inspection. In that case, you do not want to be exposed for having a substandard installation unless you can prove it meets industry standards.

3. They Are Trained Professionals

When hiring an electrician, you can trust the professional to guarantee your safety. They are trained, licensed professionals. They understand how electricity works, how to install wiring, and how to test it. Their certification is a stamp of approval that they meet the industry's standards. Their knowledge and experience are the key to a good job and a safe hot tub operation for years.

Conclusion

Putting off hot tub wiring or not having it done right can result in a terrifying experience or even a deadly accident. That is why we recommend using a professional and experienced electrician like ours to guarantee your family's and your home's safety. Give us a call, and we will give you a free quote and consultation.

Passey Electric provides complete electrical solutions to residential, farm wiring, and commercial establishments across Raymond, Southern Alberta. Whether it be new construction or maintenance, we have the tools and ability to help you with your needs. From new services, new homes, to Hot tubs and lighting upgrades we do it. If you need electrical services in Lethbridge, we’ve got you covered! Call us at (403) 635-6767 and let us know how we can help!