Check hot tub heater externally before install?

[BradRose]

Is it possible for me to check my hot tub heater externally, before I install it into the white plastic piping and seal the end?
Can I wire it up and turn on my tub power to see if the GFI trips or not?
Thanks for any help!

 

[kimkats]

Interesting question but I can see the value of being able to do so! I am sorry to say I have no idea but wanted to give you bump to see if the late day group might.

Let us know what you find out!

Kim

 

[kj5kb]

This is basically another free bump...but my understanding is they shouldn't be fired up dry.

 

[Jimrahbe]

Brad,

Hot tubs/Spas have all kinds of safety features to prevent the heater from working without all the interlocks satisfied.. So my guess, is that no you can't do what you want.

If the hot tub was tripping the GFCI, and when you disconnected the power it quit tripping, then it is a pretty safe bet that the heater core is bad.

Then again, I've only owned my spa for less than a week.... so YMMV

Thanks,

Jim R.

 

[JamesW]

Don't dry fire the heater.

Is it going in plastic?

Do you have a picture?

 

[BradRose]

Don't dry fire the heater.

Is it going in plastic?

Do you have a picture?

The heating element will be going into plastic as it is the type that screws into place at the end that has the wire connections.
I was only curious as it can be a lot of work if it ends up not being the heater that's gone bad and possibly the pressure switch...

I guess the best thing I can do is install the newer heater and fire it up to see if the GFI trips.

Thanks everyone!

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I appreciate your input Jim! I'll connect the new element and see if the GFI trips or not. Thanks for your help!