Understanding Hot Tub GFCI Circuit Breakers
Background: Mike, a Homeowner from Seymour, CT

Question: I installed a 220V 50A 2 pole GFCI breaker for my hot tub and it continues to trip.

• The breaker had two slots for the
  • 2 black lines
  • and one slot for the neutral(white)
  • and then one white wire molded into the breaker (ground).
• I attached the molded white to the neutral bus in the main panel.
• When I set the breaker it stays for about 5 seconds and then trips.

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Mike.

Hot Tub Wiring and GFCI Circuit Breakers

• Mike, double check your wiring at the hot tub specifically the connections for the neutral and the ground
• The hot tub circuit requires a separate neutral and a separate ground wire
• The neutral wire and the ground wire cannot be attached to the same terminal
• The GFCI circuit breaker is very sensitive and will trip if the wiring is not connected properly
• Check the hot tub wiring and the installation
• Make sure the electrical connections are according to the GFCI circuit breaker requirements

The Following links will assist you with your electrical question:

GFCI Outlet Wiring

Hot Tub Wiring

Hot Tub Wiring Diagram Information

• Electrical Codes and Details for Spa and Hot Tub Wiring.
• Essentials for your installation, including
  • the required GFCI ground fault protection
  • electrical circuit wire size