Today, you can find spas and pools in all shapes and sizes. Most of them require some type of electrical equipment to maintain the water quality, run the pumps, power the lights, and more. Each of these electrical installations must be done in accordance with the electrical code in your location. In most cases, they must be handled by a professional electrician, too.
Keep reading to learn about some of the basic requirements from the National Electric Code. Keep in mind, the electrician you hire from your local area will be able to ensure all requirements are met.
The Installation of Electrical Lines Overhead
If you plan to have utility power lines that go over a spa or pool, they have to be a minimum of 22.5 feet over the water level or the base of a diving board. Any communications cables have to be a minimum of 10 feet over the water.
When possible, run these lines as far away from a source of water as possible. Another hazard is the long metal poles used on nets for cleaning pools, which can pose a hazard if they come in contact with the overhead lines.
The Installation of Pool Wiring Underground
You are prohibited to install electrical wiring under a spa or pool. It must not run any closer than five feet from the sidewall of the spa or pool. There are a few exceptions to this rule if the wiring is attaching to the spa or pool to power lighting or equipment.
If there isn’t enough space to maintain the five-foot distance, the wiring can be installed closer than the five-foot mark if it is placed in a conduit system. For the rigid metal conduit, the burial depth must be 6″, and for the nonmetallic PVC conduit, the burial depth must be 6″ and must be covered by 4″ of concrete.
Electrical Outlet Receptacles for Pool Wiring
The receptacles being used for motors and pumps have to be located between six and ten feet from the walls of the pool. They must also be protected by GFCI and locked. General use outlet receptacles cannot be closer than 20 feet from a pool or spa if there is no GFCI protection. If they are GFIC protected, six feet is the minimum distance allowed.
For an in-ground pool, there has to be a minimum of one GFCI protected outlet that’s located between six and 20 feet from the pool’s edge.
Pools and Electricity: Play it Safe
There’s no question that pools can offer quite a bit of fun and enjoyment. However, when it comes to the electrical components needed for the pool, making sure they are installed properly and according to the area’s code is a must.
The best way to ensure this happens is by calling the professionals at Teague Electric for help. We can ensure that the wiring is installed properly and safely, allowing you to focus on having fun in your new pool or spa.
