OT: What size wire for Hot Tub?
 

I need help.

What size direct burial 220v wire do I need for a 30' run for my hot tub? I'm running a 30 amp breaker. Thanks in advance for any help.

Don't forget the ground spike... BZZZZZZZZZZZZ!!!

I would use 8-3 romex wire. Make sure you use a quick disconnect out at the building before it goes into your house. Are you sure about 30 amp, that seems a bit small?

Dan

30 amp is # 10 gage copper. Is that what the tub draws or the recommended breaker? Anyway # 10 is the right choice. 4 wire mc is the best for a tub ...ie red black white green or bare and the jacket is grounded.

Ted

OK, I checked inside the tub. It says 40 amp breaker and #6 wire. This is going into my shop subpanel. The ground spike is right next to the tub. Does # 6 sound right for a 40 amp breaker and 30 feet?

Aaaa, multi answers to simple question. If hot tub needs 30A 220v then #10cu is correct wire size. Will need 4 wires, 2 phase conductors ( red & black), 1 neutral (white), & 1 ground (bare). Wire type for direct burial is UF so you would need 10/4 UF cable. I do not know if this is made. I would not use romex direct burial. If I was doing I would run a PVC pipe & put wire in pipe. Then buy a GFI 30A double pole breaker in panel to feed this. GFI breakers are not cheap but neither is a life.

If hot tub requires 40A then #8 cu. wire
If hot tub requiers 50A then #6 cu. wire

Sorry...missed the "direct burial." Do not use mc!

Type UF (underground feeder) or USE (underground service entrance) will both do fine...UF easier to work with. All of the sizes you have been given are exactly correct IMHO. Pick an ampacity and go. Ground fault breaker a must.

Ted

Ok, Thanks for all the help. The inside cover of the wooden enclosure says 50 amp so that is what I went with. Got #6 UF and a 50 amp breaker. I also ran a separate ground wire to the spike since it was closer. Thanks for all the help guys. Now all I need is some neked women. :D :D

Jim-

Make sure you have a normal breaker at the box, AND a GFI breaker (required by code) as near to the spa as possible in a seperate breaker box. Looks like you've been recommended the correct guage wire for 50A 220V, four wire. Good luck in the spa (I meant with the spa). :D :D :D :D

I have about a 80 foot run from my service to the spa area. How many feet can you go before you have to use bigger wire?