Presenting National Electrical Code changes

The National Fire Protection Agency publishes official updates to the National Electrical Code every three years. NEC 2020 is the result of more than 5,000 public inputs and comments, 18 panels, the annual NFPA meeting, and more than 2,000 revisions. NEC 2020 is already in effect in at least 14 states, and its adoption is currently underway in an additional 10. The following changes are relevant to the pool and spa industry:

680.7 – Terminals used for equipment grounding must be listed for use in wet and corrosive environments.

680.9 – The requirements for overhead power now apply to all conductors and not just overhead service conductors.

680.21 – All swimming pool motors that are on branch circuits are required to have Class A GFCI protection for personnel. This applies to replacement pump motors as well.

680.22 – Pool equipment rooms now require at least one GFCIprotected receptacle on a 125-volt, 15- or 20-amp circuit. Any other receptacles installed in the equipment room must be GFCI-protected as well.

680.22 – Electrical equipment other than receptacles and lighting must be a minimum of five feet away from the swimming pool unless separated by a barrier.

680.23 – Wet-niche luminaires that are installed in the foot well of a spa are only required to reach the bench area when removed for maintenance.

680.23 – Conduits leading directly to the forming shell of underwater luminaires shall be required to be listed as red brass or stainless steel.

680.26 – The term equipotential bonding is now being used to better describe pool bonding systems.

With all of this GFCI protection required for electrical equipment associated with swimming pools, chances of being shocked or electrocuted in a swimming pool have been reduced dramatically. However, GFCI devices require maintenance according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Following the recommended maintenance schedule ensures that the GFCI protection functions when needed.