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Writing Your Prescription for Electrical Safety 

Sept, 2009- Vol 1, Issue 1

Greetings!
Terry Carman Master Electrician
Welcome to our News You can Use around your home.
Each month, we will "Enlighten" you about your home electricity and share our tips that will save you electricity and money.
 
This Month's Features
Getting in Safely - Installing New Hot tubs and Spas
The Doctor is IN- A Question for the Pros
The Energy Saver
Getting in Safely: Hooking up your new Spa or Hot tub
This is a big month for spa and hot tub deals!
 
 If you are thinking of installing your own home spa it's a good idea to leave the hotHot Tub tub wiring to a licensed electrician who is qualified and skilled in hooking up hot tubs according to provincial electrical code requirements.
 
The Electrical Safety Authority rates the risk of shock and electrocution associated with various electrical projects on a scale from 1 to 10.
 
The risk factor for hooking up spas and hot tubs is 10 out of 10.
 
Key points to remember:
  •  Power supplied to the spa or hot tub must be fed through a ground fault circuit interrupter breaker (GFCI)
  •   Portable hot tubs and spas, sold as "Plug and Play" still require the same protective devices as a permanent installation.
  •  Choosing the correct wire and breaker size involves variables. You cannot rely solely on the manufacturer's instructions.
  •   Pools, spas and hot tub installations must be inspected by the ESA.                                                                                                       
                                                                                                                                            Your Certificate of Inspection is your assurance that your electrical work meets the Ontario Electrical Safety Code requirements and is safe for your family and friends.
The Doctor is IN - Question for the Pros
 
The Dr is In 
Question? 
I am deciding where to put my new hot tub. What are the Electrical Code rules regarding electrical outlets and equipment near hot tubs?
 
Answer: 
All electrical equipment (e.g. - receptacles, lighting, heating, pumps, air conditioning equipment, etc) located within 3 meters of the inside walls of the tub shall be GFCI protected unless it is separated from the tub by a fence, wall, or other permanent barrier.
Receptacles are not permitted within 1.5 m of the tub.
A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter shall not be located with 3 m of a spa or hot tub, unless the GFCI is an integral part of an approved factory built spa or hot tub, or is located behind a barrier that will prevent the occupant of the tub from contacting the device.
 

The Energy Saver

 
40% of your home energy is spent on heating and cooling.

If you have air conditioning remember it is just as important to change the filter in the furnace during the summer months as in the winter. 

 A dirty filter costs you money. When the airflow is impeded, It makes the A/C and the furnace fan run longer, burning up more hydro. More heat is generated within your home and heavier useage shortens the lifespan of your equipment.

The Home Renovation Tax Credit
With only 4 months left until the HRTC benefit opportunity ends, many homeowners are scrambling to finalize their renovation plans. If you have postponed your plans until fall, now is the time to call us and make those arrangements. Our existing clients always get priority scheduling but there are still only so many hours in a week, so call now.

Remember, water and electricity don't mix. Make your spa or new hot tub safe for your family's relaxation and enjoyment.
Sincerely,
Cheri Carman
TheShockDoctors.ca
Progressive Electrical Services Ltd
 ECRA/ESA # 7001377
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