What is the purpose of bonding a pool?
Bonding is also known as equipotential bonding because the goal of this process is to equalize the potential differences in voltage between different parts of your pool equipment. When you properly bound your pool equipment, you greatly reduce the risk of electrical shocks.
What happens if you don’t bond your pool?
Without proper swimming pool bonding, your body can complete the circuit between areas of differing potential, resulting in a potentially deadly shock. According to Erico.com, the National Electric Code (NEC) “requires bonding of all the following metallic parts in a permanently installed swimming pool with a #8 AWG solid or large conductor.”
How do you bond the metal around a pool?
The pool people do all of the bonding to the metal surrounding the pool, including decking, ladders, pool structure itself etc. with the bare #8 wire, leaving the end of the bond wire for the electrician to complete at the equipment pad. I wasn’t sure if the electricians completion included tying it directly into the grounding wires or not.
Do I need to electrically bond the water in my Pool?
Since 2008 the National Electrical Code (NEC) has mandated that pool water shall be electrically bonded, not just metals in the structure of the pool itself. All requirements for equipotential bonding, including bonding of the pool water, can be found in NEC Section 680.26 (C). As required in NEC Section 680.26 (C) the Bonding Device shall:
Is bonding a pool necessary?
The number one concern of any professional installer has to be the safety of all pool swimmers. Most of us are aware that the pool must be bonded, but since 2008 the National Electrical Code (NEC) has mandated that pool water shall be electrically bonded, not just metals in the structure of the pool itself.
What happens if a pool is not bonded?
If you do not bond your pool equipment there is the risk that the equipment itself will become the anode in a galvanic couple with other metal components in or around your pool. If this happens, the anode metals will deteriorate at an advanced rate, a phenomenon called galvanic corrosion.
What is the purpose of pool bonding?
2:015:17Pool Bonding 101: Why Handrails, Coping, and Water Could Shock YouYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo all of the metal components that are within five feet of the water's edge including the laddersMoreSo all of the metal components that are within five feet of the water's edge including the ladders handrails diving board jigs all of those different things that have metal and are within five feet of
Does a pool need to be grounded or bonded?
But with all these electrical components combined with the metal parts of the swimming pool itself comes the potential for great danger. Swimming pools must be properly grounded and bonded to prevent this danger.
How do I bond an existing pool?
0:532:13How To Bond A Swimming Pool - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBut six feet as a recommended distance from your swimming pool should also get bonded and the reasonMoreBut six feet as a recommended distance from your swimming pool should also get bonded and the reason that you would bond those is to prevent from the damage of galvanic corrosion.
How can you tell if your pool is bonded?
Look for an exposed copper wire attached to the motor and pumps, going into the ground. It should connect in a similar way as in the image to the left. If you live in a municipality, you can also contact the building and inspection department to see if your pool had a code inspection during its construction.
Is an unbonded pool safe?
Not having a bonding grid doesn't necessarily mean that there will be an issue. It's a safety feature like gfci, fire extinguishers, sealt belts, airbags etc. You can be ok without any of those things, but they make a big difference if there's an issue.
What is difference between grounding and bonding?
Bonding. Bonding is the connection of non-current-carrying conductive elements like enclosures and structures. Grounding is the attachment of bonded systems to the earth. Both are necessary to safeguard people and property from electric hazards.
Why do I get shocked when I touch the pool water?
0:311:46Electrical Shocks From Swimming Pool - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipPotential than another piece of metal or the bond the the water of the swimming pool itself. AndMorePotential than another piece of metal or the bond the the water of the swimming pool itself. And when you complete that circuit by touching both of those things at the same time.
What happens if a pool is not earthed?
Basically if there is an electrical current within the pool water and a person in the water touches a metal fitting then this can cause death or serious injury. This requirement means a earth wire must be run between spigots (underground) and then to an earthing point, usually on the house.
When did pool bonding start?
The 1965 edition changed the ground wire requirement from #14 AWG to the larger #8 AWG, along with other minor additions. Then the 1968 edition introduced the word “bonding” for the unbroken connection between all components that was required, and specified the five-foot radius rule that we know today.
How far does bonding wire need to be from pool?
The bonding conductor must be secured in or under the deck or unpaved surface within 4 in. to 6 in. below the subgrade and must be located between 18 in. and 24 in. from the inside walls of the pool.
What happens if a pool is not earthed?
Basically if there is an electrical current within the pool water and a person in the water touches a metal fitting then this can cause death or serious injury. This requirement means a earth wire must be run between spigots (underground) and then to an earthing point, usually on the house.
Do all pools need to be grounded?
Do above ground pools need to be grounded? Absolutely! Not only do they need to be grounded, but they also need to be bonded. And while most pool users may have never even thought about these types of problems, if you're a swimming pool owner, these are the types of things that you need to understand and control.
Does an inground pool need to be grounded?
Since there is often confusion between grounding and bonding, some builders might bond but not ground or the other way around. Anything containing metal within five feet of the pool water must be bonded.
Do I have to bond a resin pool?
I don't think you need to bond the uprights of your resin pool. If there is no conductive surface (uprights, wall, bottom rail, etc) then I would just bond the water (skimmer) and be done with it.
Why do we bond pools?
Bonding is also known as equipotential bonding because the goal of this process is to equalize the potential differences in voltage between different parts ...
How does bonding work in pool equipment?
So how does bonding help? Simply put, bonding connects all of your pool equipment together so they all have the same electrical potential. When all of your equipment is carrying the same charge, the electricity won't try to jump from one piece to another as the resistance is the same on both sides. This equalization allows you to safely use your pool equipment without risking electric shocks.
What Is Bonding and Grounding?
Like the other parts of your home, swimming pools require electricity to function. Pumps, lights, automatic pool covers, some cleaning equipment plus more will require power. But, as you can imagine, electrical safety is very important whenever water is involved.
What is pool equalization?
This equalization allows you to safely use your pool equipment without risking electric shocks. An electrician bonds pool equipment by connecting it all together with conductive wire also known as a bonding wire when it comes to pools. Here is a partial list of what should be included in your pool's bonding grid:
What should be included in a pool bonding grid?
Here is a partial list of what should be included in your pool's bonding grid: Any metal parts of the pool shell. Shells and brackets of all pool lighting. Any metal fittings attached to your pool structure. All electric pump motors and fittings. Any metal piping or sheathing within 5 feet of the pool.
Why is bonding necessary?
Bonding is necessary because, even when grounded, electrical equipment can still accumulate charge over time. For instance, a pool motor that is connected to a power line can slowly build up a higher charge than other pieces of metal in the same area.
How does a pool ground work?
Pool equipment can also be grounded through GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets. These outlets detect when your electrical equipment may be drawing too much power (such as during a short or fault) and interrupt the circuit. The outlet cuts power to the shorting device and provides a safe ground path for the electricity.
What is an in ground pool?
An in-ground swimming pool involves a complex structural design. It’s not just a hole in the ground that someone has poured with concrete. Sophisticated calculations are used to construct the pool and ensure that it holds up against the weight of the water inside it and the earth around it, and that it does not break down over time. ...
Can you put pavers around a pool?
You may want pavers or natural stone to form the border around your pool. In that case, the bond beam would be installed separately and then sealed before the pavers are installed. Then the patio would be poured behind that row of pavers or stones.
Can you see a bond beam when you put a pool?
Though you can’t see the bond beam when the pool is finished, the bond beam provides a layer for the coping, the pool border, and the patio around the pool. In many cases, your pool installer will pour all these elements in one unit, which helps with structural integrity. You may want pavers or natural stone to form the border around your pool.
Why does my pool shock me?
Since electricity will flow if some areas have different voltage than others, we use a bonding grid to equalize the electrical potential around the pool. This bonding grid connects all metal components in the pool area with bare copper wire. If your pool is shocking you, contact your pool company or a certified electrician to solve the problem.
Why is equipotential bonding important?
The purpose of equipotential bonding is to equalize the pressure around the entire pool so your body doesn’t create the circuit between areas of differing potential which would result in getting shocked.
What components are in the bonding grid?
The bonding grid is established by connecting a bare copper wire to various components around the pool which include but are not limited to:
What is equipotential bonding?
The key phrase to become familiar with here is equipotential bonding, which is essentially a function of connecting various pool components together with a bare copper wire to make them the same potential.
How many square inches of metal is needed for a fiberglass pool?
The required nine square inches of metal in the water can be satisfied through the use of a submersed metal pool accessory such as a light or ladder, or if no submersed metal component is used, through the use of a metal plate known as a “Bondsafe 680” installed in the throat of the skimmer. This is a wonderful product and is perfect for fiberglass pools.
Is a pool improperly bonded?
There is a chance the pool was improperly bonded if the pool was built before recent changes to the electrical code were enforced .
Why bond a pool?
Pool Bonding to Reduce Shock Hazards. During the hot, humid summer months, few things are more relaxing than a cool swimming pool. To maintain the tranquility of pools, spas, and hot tubs, safety considerations are vital. Most people take into account the common dangers of UV radiation, injuries from slipping on wet decks and concrete, ...
What is Swimming Pool Bonding?
When considering swimming pool bonding, it’s important to become familiar with the concept of equipotential bonding .
What are the hazards of a pool?
Metallic objects attached to your swimming pool – such as rails, ladders, and brackets for lighting fixtures – can be a shock hazard if improperly bonded. Like all electrical wiring and fixtures, those around a pool should be properly grounded for the safest experience.
Why is it important to connect all lighting fixtures to your pool's equipotential grid?
It is important to connect all lighting fixtures to your pool’s equipotential grid. The point of a lighting fixture is to illuminate your pool at night , not cause a potentially deadly shock.
What is the NEC for swimming pools?
According to Erico.com, the National Electric Code (NEC) “requires bonding of all the following metallic parts in a permanently installed swimming pool with a #8 AWG solid or large conductor.”. All metal parts must also be connected to a bonding grid covering the entire contour of your pool. 1.
What equipment is needed for a pool?
All pools contain a multitude of electrical equipment for both convenience and proper functionality. Pumps, automatic covers, water heaters, and other such equipment must be bonded to the equipotential grid to keep your pool safe.
How high should a pool wall be to bond?
Touching nearby metallic structures can also result in a shock. As stated by Mike Holt of Ecmweb.com, components five feet horizontal to your pool wall and twelve feet above the pool’s water level require bonding.
WHAT IS POOL BONDING?
.the practice of intentionally electrically connecting all exposed metallic items not designed to carry electricity in a room or building as protection from electric shock.” ( Wikipedia) Another way of putting it is that the primary purpose of bonding is to keep people and electricity separated. Stray currents (or electrical gradients) can occur in a swimming pool. Every metal component, the pool water and your body are all conductive and will carry electricity in the right situation.
What happens when a pool is bonded?
In an improperly bonded pool stray currents are out of control and will seek the easiest path for conductivity. A bonded pool balances the electrical pressure and keeps all currents flowing outward into a bonding wire or grid where they are safely dispersed.
WHAT DOES THE NEC SAY SPECIFICALLY ABOUT WATER BONDING?
Since 2008 the National Electrical Code (NEC) has mandated that pool water shall be electrically bonded , not just metals in the structure of the pool itself. All requirements for equipotential bonding, including bonding of the pool water, can be found in NEC Section 680.26 (C). As required in NEC Section 680.26 (C) the Bonding Device shall:
What is a pool defender?
This combo unit has a steel plate that bonds the pool water as well as a sacrificial zinc anode that helps to reduce galvanic corrosion in the pool. This is a perfect product for pools using a salt chlorine generator. There is also a clear lid that can be easily removed to access the anode or bonding plate. With this bonding method it is important to ensure that the pool water always remains in contact with the anode to meet all NEC requirements. Learn more about the inline anode and water bond.
What is CMP water bonding?
Currently CMP offers four different water bonding solutions, two primarily for in ground pools and two that are perfect for above ground pools. These products are the Pool Defender Water Bond Skimmer, Inline Anode & Water Bond, Pump Water Bond and Econ Union Water Bond.
What is a water bond skimmer?
The water bond skimmer has a built in stainless steel plate that is mounted safely behind the pool basket. An embedded copper wire exits the back of the skimmer and is perfectly located for connection to the pool bonding wire or grid. This skimmer upgrade couldn’t be simpler.
How many square inches of conductive material for pool light?
The three keys are: minimum of nine square inches on conductive material, constant contact with the water and a secure connection. Traditionally the most common “bonding device” has been the pool light itself. Common pool lighting is housed in a metal “wet niche.”. As a metal component the light must be bonded, ...
What happens if you have an electrical problem with your pool?
If there is an electrical problem with the pool equipment, a fault could occur and charge the entire pool or spa, making it fatally hazardous. Grounding. The electrical equipment for swimming pools must be grounded and connected by wiring methods in accordance with the NFPA 70 National Electric Code® (NEC®).
What is bonding in electrical engineering?
Bonding is joining metallic parts to form an electrically conductive path that will result in electrical continuity between components to ensure that the electrical potential will be the same throughout.
What are the requirements for a pool?
The following parts of pools, spas, and hot tubs must be bonded together using conductors at least 8 AWG, or using rigid metal conduit, including: 1 conductive pool shells, including poured concrete, sprayed concrete, and concrete block with painted or plastered coatings; 2 structural reinforcing steel; 3 copper conductor grid; 4 perimeter surfaces that extend 3 feet horizontally beyond the inside walls of the pool, spa, or hot tub. A perimeter surface that extends less than 3 feet and is separated from the pool by a barrier shall require equipotential bonding on the pool side of the barrier. Bonding to perimeter surfaces shall be provided and be attached to the pool, spa, and hot tub reinforcing steel or copper conductor grid at a minimum of four points around the pool, spa, or hot tub. There are some exceptions; 5 metallic components; 6 underwater lighting; 7 metal fittings; 8 electrical equipment; and 9 all fixed metal parts.
What type of metal should pool motors be grounded in?
Grounding and bonding connections should be made of copper, copper alloy, or stainless steel. They also should be listed for direct burial. Luminaries and related equipment should also be grounded.
Where is the electrical equipment located in a pool?
all electrical equipment located within 5 feet of the inside wall of the pool water; all through-wall lighting assemblies and underwater luminaires; panelboards that supply electricity to equipment associated with the pool; GFCIs : transformer and power supply enclosures; junction boxes; and. pool motors.
Can you stand in water when inspecting a pool?
Don’t stand in water when working with or inspecting electrical equipment . Be sure to identify all circuits that are related to the pool equipment. When inspecting the pool or spa, check for unfinished or poor workmanship, particularly with the electrical components, wiring and installation.
Do you need to bond electrical equipment for a pool?
In addition to grounding, bonding is required to get all metal parts of the electrical equipment and the non-electrical metal parts of the pool/spa structure to attain equal electrical potential . Because the combination of water and electricity can be fatal, it is important to remember and adhere to all safety concerns and practices. Home inspectors should advise homeowners to consult or hire an electrician instead of doing any electrical work themselves.
Why Swimming Pool Contractors Must Carry a Surety Bond
No matter where you live in any part of the world, you might have plans to have a swimming pool installed. This is not such a difficult project as long as you have the right tools and plans in place. You might need to consider several things before selecting the company you would want to hire to get the job done for you.
What is a Construction Surety Bond?
There is a difference between insurance and a surety bond. Even though a surety company may be part of a bigger insurance company, these bonds are not classified as insurance policies.
Tips for Selecting a Swimming Pool Contractor
According to recent studies and research, it was observed that these contractors might have had a tough time at the market. They opted to provide some extra services to their clients, including repair and maintenance plans, to offset their revenue losses.
What Exactly are the Benefits of Surety Bonds?
If you have taken some time to analyze the construction of a project, you will understand that surety bonds are essential if one wants to mitigate the risks involved. Taxpayers, owners, subcontractors, and contractors are protected by these agreements because:
Final Note
In the end, every contractor needs a surety bond, not only those working with swimming pools. However, if you are a swimming pool contractor, consider the benefits of this type of agreement and get yours today.
Why do you bond a pool?
Bonding your pool is a safety measure to prevent accidentally getting electrocuted or seriously injured. You need to create a field around your swimming pool by attaching the bonding wire to the metal deck, pool equipment, metal pool wall, and even the water.
What do you use to attach lugs to pool walls?
They want you to use a bolt and nut to attach lug to frame or pool wall. Doing that requires drilling a hole, so I usually use a stainless self-tapping screw and have only been made to replace them once with the “required” hardware.
Do you need to bond an above ground pool?
Local state and federal building codes require all permanent above ground pools to get correctly bonded. What is Pool Bonding. A lot of people mistakingly call this grounding the pool; While that is somewhat true, bonding is a little different.
Why do we bond non-electric equipment?
It has very little to do with fault clearing or grounding and is called "equipotential bonding" for a reason, it brings all those components to the same voltage potential.#N#The electrical grounded conductor and equipment grounding conductor are tied to one another back at the service. The grounded conductor may have a rise in voltage as referenced from earth because of voltage drop on that conductor, that is normal but that voltage rise is also imposed on anything that is bonded intentionally or not at the pool. This can leave voltage gradients in the pool area and just a few volts is much more of a danger when you are immersed in the pool than if you are standing on relatively dry ground and subject to the same few volts. So we protect pool users from these possible voltage gradients by bringing every conductive object in the pool vicinity to the same potential via this bonding system.#N#We don't care if the entire pool is running at 1000 volts above earth potential, just that there is no potential between objects in the pool area. This is reason why a bird on an overhead high voltage line doesn't get electrocuted, it is at same potential as the line but is not touching anything of different potential so no current flows through it.#N#Any item that is required to be bonded that also is required to have an EGC run to it, will inherently yield an interconnection between the electrical grounding system and the equipotential bonding system of the pool. This most often occurs at least at a pump motor
Do you need to go back to the grid for bonding?
The bonding grid does not need to go back to the system ground. Just all metal parts on/in the pool, equipment serving the pool, and the pool water is all that is required to be connected to the grid.
Do pool people bond to metal?
The pool people do all of the bonding to the metal surrounding the pool, including decking, ladders, pool structure itself etc. with the bare #8 wire, leaving the end of the bond wire for the electrician to complete at the equipment pad. I wasn’t sure if the electricians completion included tying it directly into the grounding wires or not.#N#I want the peace of mind that the job is done correctly, but as it sounds, the indirect connection via ground wire inside pump and the bond connection point via outside pump housing is the way I thought. I just wanted to make sure a direct copper wire connection wasn’t supposed to be established from the bond to the ground/service panel grounding strip.
Do you need to connect the equipotential bonding conductors to the panel or to the ground rod?
You're not required to connect the equipotential bonding conductors to the panel or to the ground rod because it will most likely have zero benefit. If there were a need for this connection then the NEC would require it. The EGC in the pump circuit is all that's required to be connected to the panel so that's all that I would use.
