Swimming Pool Expert Witness

Swimming Pool Design and the National Electric Code.

NEC 680

Though section 680 deals specifically with swimming pools and spas, this is not the only section that applies to swimming pools.  This is where most swimming pool builders, watershape consultants, aquatic designers and even pool equipment manufacturers stumble.  

They fail to familiarize themselves with the rest of the NEC, and those sections that also apply to swimming pools.

Major Failing

One major failing of pool pump manufacturers and pool contractors who install these pumps, is the failure to provide notice of the requirement for or the installation of, the appropriate service disconnect.

The NEC states that any permanently installed motor larger than 1/2 horsepower (data plate rating), may not utilize the circuit overload interrupted (aka: circuit breaker) as the service disconnect [NEC 430.109(B)].


The NEC specifically identifies the acceptable type of service disconnect required, depending upon the horsepower of the motor
[NEC 430.109(C) & (D)].

When was the last time that you saw a service disconnect switch between the control panel and the pool pump motor?

This 30A Square-D service disconnect can handle up to 7.5 horsepower and 1 or 3 phase.  This unit is rated for indoor use only.

What your contractor does not know CAN HURT YOU!

Paolo Benedetti - Aquatic Artist 
"Creating water as art."™ 
Aquatic Technology Pool and Spa ©www.aquatictechnology.com 
You may contact Paolo Benedetti at: info@aquatictechnology.com or at 408-776-8220

http://alpaforex.com

Swimming Pool Lighting Low Voltage PROHIBITIONS

Section 680.23(C) could be changed for the 2014 NEC to permit a special isolation transformer with a ground shield, similar to the underwater luminaire transformer, for aboveground low-voltage lighting systems in proximity to the edge of a swimming pool. Until the change is submitted and processed, low-voltage lighting must not be located closer than 10 feet horizontally from the edge of the pool or 12 feet above the pool. - See more at: http://www.ecmag.com/section/codes-standards/waters-fine#sthash.cDzLMcen.dpuf

Section 680.23(C) could be changed for the 2014 NEC to permit a special isolation transformer with a ground shield, similar to the underwater luminaire transformer, for aboveground low-voltage lighting systems in proximity to the edge of a swimming pool. Until the change is submitted and processed, low-voltage lighting must not be located closer than 10 feet horizontally from the edge of the pool or 12 feet above the pool. - See more at: http://www.ecmag.com/section/codes-standards/waters-fine#sthash.cDzLMcen.dpuf

Low voltage landscape lighting cannot be installed within 10 feet horizontally or 12 vertically of a swimming pool, spa or hot tub.

Building Code Prohibition
 
The national Electric Code has been adopted in every US State.

Section 411.4(B) of the 2011 prohibits the installation of low voltage systems within 10 feet of any pool, spa or hot tub, unless specifically permitted by section 680 of the NEC. 

What can I do?

Section 680.22(C) outlines the requirements for low voltage lighting used around a swimming pool.  It does not describe any low voltage lighting fixtures or components that are not underwater illuminares.  

Section NEC 680.23(A)(2) specifically discusses underwater illuminares.

Because low voltage lighting around the pool are not specifically defined (as required by NEC 411), they are still prohibited.


How do you install landscape lighting close to a pool and still remain safe & code compliant?


Magic.  

This is what experienced designers spend their time and talents developing.

There are "work arounds" (no, they do not include special transformers, plastic fixtures, high voltage lighting, or distant projector style illuminares).

Give us a call.  We'll be happy to discuss your needs and to design a safe, compliant system for your project.

Paolo Benedetti - Aquatic Artist 
"Creating water as art."™ 
Aquatic Technology Pool and Spa ©www.aquatictechnology.com 
You may contact Paolo Benedetti at: info@aquatictechnology.com or at 408-776-8220