Hot tub - distance to outlets?

I am looking into getting a hot tub. The pre-installation manual says the dedicated 20 amp, 115 GFCI protected circuit must have the the outlet no closer than 5 ft. and no farther than 10 ft. from the spa. (they reference Ntional Electric Code 680-6a and 680-41a but I can't seem to get access to those codes)

I WILL run a dedicated line meeting the stated requirements.

HOWEVER, there is a non dedicated, GFCI outlet ( with weather-proof in use cover) that would be three from the ideal location for the tub. While I would NOT use the outlet located 3 feet from the tub for operating the tub, is it a violation of the code to merely have the tub located 3 feet from any outlet???

Also, I have a choice of having it run off 120 or 240. On 120 the heater is 1500 watts; while using the tub with the jet pump on, you CAN'T use the heater (but for a 20 min. use I figure the water temperature drop starting from 102deg. would not be too objectionable at about 40 deg. F ambient air temp). On 240V the heater consumes 6000 watts, but you can operate the heater at the same time as the jets)

The 240 volt setup is an additional $200 and I am wondering if anyone has some advice that would convince me that I should go to the extra expense.

The Hot Tub that I am looking at is a Hot Springs Jetsetter - 3 person 225 gallon unit.

Many thanks, Chuck -- from Rochester, NY

 

You cannot have a receptacle at three feet from the tub.

Go with 240 volts.

 

On 120 volts ( 1500 watts) it would take a lot longer to heat the tub up/

 

Go with the 240V.
In your area it gets chilly, Go for it, and buy a cover too.
You'll love it. Trust me.

# is it a violation of the code to merely have the tub located 3 feet from any outlet???
YES:

Additionaly, 5 to 10 feet doesn't meen 3 feet. Remove it and put a blank plate on it. This is like "Kind of pregnant". no such thing.You are or your not.

 

> is it a violation of the code to merely have the tub located 3 feet from
> any outlet???

Yes.

> Also, I have a choice of having it run off 120 or 240.

Absolutely go with the 240V connection. The water gets uncomfortably cool when the blower is on without the heater. The jets blowing air through the water cools it down much quicker than you would expect.

 

Many thanks for the helpful advice

My wife and I just went out and purchased the 240V version. I wouldn't want my wife to get cold in a "hot tub".

A bit of advice my wife is fond of giving me as she has been working on me for a couple years to get a hot tub: "happy wife, happy life".

Merry Christmas to all, Chuck

 

And don't EVER forget it!!!! Learn the first time, (it took me two).
Merry Christmass to you!!