When applying for a permit to install a new hot tub or air conditioning unit, you need to submit an electrical load calculation (187.1 KB) . This is to ensure your home will keep meeting the safety standards set by the Canadian Electrical Codebook.

Electrical challenges with hot tubs and air conditioning

More and more homeowners are installing hot tubs in homes that also have air conditioning units, which presents a conflict from an electrical servicing standpoint with respect to the overall amperage draw on the main breaker of the house. Both hot tubs and air conditioning units require a significant supply of electricity with most hot tubs drawing 8,000 to 10,000 watts when all components are turned on (including heating element and pumps). Air conditioning units draw around 4,000 to 5,000 watts.  
 
Most homes have a 100-amp service line and when both a hot tub and air conditioning unit are installed, load calculations often exceed the available amperage. However, there are things that can be done to accommodate new electrical units when the calculation is over 100 amps. Specifically, either a service upgrade or an energy management system (i.e. load miser) can be installed.  

Ensuring successful, safe installations

To evaluate electrical demand concerns at the permitting phase and before inspections, Strathcona County is now requiring a load calculation from Section 8 of the Canadian Electrical Codebook as part of a permit application for a hot tub or air conditioning unit, as applicable.   

Hot tub electrical installation requirements highlights:

• Rule 68-064 of the Canadian Electrical Codebook says no receptacles can be located within 1.5m of a hot tub. If located between 1.5m and 3m from a hot tub, then GFCI protection is needed. 
• Rule 68-068(6) of the CEC says the outside service disconnect has to be located at least 3m from a hot tub.