A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) or Residual Current Device (RCD) is a device used to reduce the risk of electric shock.
It shuts off an electric circuit when it detects that current is flowing along an unintended path, possibly through water or through a person. Since the GFCI detects ground faults, it can also prevent some electrical fires and reduce the severity of other fires by interrupting the flow of electric current.
- To facilitate the electrical installation of a 240V spa, it is crucial and essential to have a GFCI Circuit Breaker.
- A licensed electrician will undertake this installation using three wires (hot, hot, neutral) along with the ground (copper wire), ensuring compliance with electrical regulations and meeting the Canadian Spa requirements.
- The breaker is typically placed and configured by the electrician around 5 feet or more from the spa's location, referred to as a dedicated breaker.
- This setup offers users the flexibility to easily turn the spa OFF or power it back ON with convenience by adjusting the dipswitch to OFF or ON position with safety access on the GFCI module
Please note that the dedicated (outside) GFCI breaker solely manages the connected unit (spa) and does not impact or alter anything with your household (indoor) GFCI breaker, which is typically located in the basement or garage depending on the house's electrical setup.