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National Electrical Code

NEC Rules for Pools, Tubs, Fountains, and Spas ― Part 2

Aug. 6, 2019

More highlights from Art. 680, Part II of the 2017 NEC

Article 680, Part II of the 2017 National Electrical Code (NEC) provides the requirements for electrical equipment associated with permanently installed pools. Some highlights include:

Areas where pool sanitation chemicals are stored and used are considered a corrosive environment [Sec. 680.14). In corrosive environments, wiring methods for motors must contain an insulated copper equipment grounding conductor (EGC) that complies with Table 250.122 and is at least 12AWG [Sec. 680.21(A)(1)].
In non-corrosive environments, the branch circuits must comply with the general requirements of Chapter 3.
Outlets connected to single-phase, 120V through 240V branch circuits and supplying pool pump motors must be GFCI-protected [Sec. 680.21(C)].
All metal fittings within or attached to the pool structure must be bonded [Sec. 680.26(B)(5). There is much more to the bonding requirements, so read all of them carefully. The point of them is to eliminate differences in potential between metallic objects, thus eliminating the shock hazard that would otherwise exist.
You'll read about “equipment grounding” requirements for underwater luminaires in Sec. 680.23(F)(2), but what is meant here isn't grounding. The EGC mentioned earlier is really a bonding jumper. See Art. 100 definitions.

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.