AG Pool wiring and other headaches

[NWMNMom]

Can someone explain "bonding" and some of the wiring requirements, why that is all needed? We are getting an AG pool and have a GFI panel close by (20') so expect to plug in right to that. Are these pump/filter set ups supposed to be hard wired? We don't plan on pool lights - our merc vapor yard light is right next to the pool area.

[JohnT]

Can someone explain "bonding" and some of the wiring requirements, why that is all needed? We are getting an AG pool and have a GFI panel close by (20') so expect to plug in right to that. Are these pump/filter set ups supposed to be hard wired? We don't plan on pool lights - our merc vapor yard light is right next to the pool area.

Bonding is a wiring scheme that connects everything conductive associated with and near the pool so that it all remains at the same voltage if some electrical mishap occurs. You can only be shocked if you touch two things that are at different voltages, like the ground and a power line. Even if an electrical appliance fell into a properly bonded pool and the GFCI didn't trip, you wouldn't be shocked because everything you could touch would be the same voltage. (Any volunteers to prove it ) Bonding has nothing to do with the power system.

AG pumps are normally required to have twist-lock connectors, and the 20 ft won't meet code in some areas.

As to the light, if you want a pool full of bugs, you've found the answer. 15 years ago when we installed our first AG, it was about 30 ft from an outside light. It was bug city every morning. The best solution to lighting I've found is the citronella torches. Much more pleasant than anything electrical.

[prh129]

NWMNMom,

Have you checked with your local building inspector to see if permits are required? I had to get a permit for the pool itself and I had to have a licensed electrician pull a permit for wiring the electrical connection to the pump.

The pumps typically come with a 3' cord so if your panel is 20', you will need to install an outlet closer to the pump. The electrical code limits a "flexible cord" to 3' so you aren't allowed to use an extension cord.

"Bonding" ties all of the metal parts of the pool structure together so that they are all at the same voltage. If you look up in the National Electrical Code, Article 680 talks about the requirements for a pool and that's what this discussion has been referring to.

Peter