Can Inline Zinc Anode Double as Water Bond?

[xrabbi]

I am converting an old cement chlorine pool to SWG. There is no water bond device in old setup so we will add this at pool equipment pad while doing the SWG conversion. Can the new inline zinc anode double as water bond or only when using the "Pool Defender" product as shown below? If not, is best recommendation to install both an inline zinc anode AND a separate water bonding tee per pictures? Appreciated.

 

[Bperry]

I am converting an old cement chlorine pool to SWG. There is no water bond device in old setup so we will add this at pool equipment pad while doing the SWG conversion. Can the new inline zinc anode double as water bond or only when using the "Pool Defender" product as shown below? If not, is best recommendation to install both an inline zinc anode AND a separate water bonding tee per pictures? Appreciated.

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What makes you think the water isn’t bonded now? The usual bonding method is to tie a bonding wire to the gunite structures rebar frame in 4 places around the perimeter of the pool. Was that not done on the original pool?

 

[xrabbi]

Electric inspector says the water itself needs to be bonded, not just the metal frame and pool equipment etc.

 

[1poolman1]

I am converting an old cement chlorine pool to SWG. There is no water bond device in old setup so we will add this at pool equipment pad while doing the SWG conversion. Can the new inline zinc anode double as water bond or only when using the "Pool Defender" product as shown below? If not, is best recommendation to install both an inline zinc anode AND a separate water bonding tee per pictures? Appreciated.

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Because of the increased use of plastic light niches a different way of bonding the water is needed. If you have an older pool your light niche will act as the water bond if there is a bonding grid already.

 

[Bperry]

Electric inspector says the water itself needs to be bonded, not just the metal frame and pool equipment etc.

There aren’t any light fixtures or things in the water now that are bonded?

 

[Mdragger88]

The need for an anode is up for debate -
Most here feel they are unnecessary.

you can accomplish the water bond with a simple “bug” in a tee (your last 2 pictures)
Or via one of the more expensive anodes - it is your choice.

Electrical Bonding - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

National Electrical Code does not require an anode.

 

[JamesW]

Plastic niches contain a metal strip that provides the required water bond.

 

[1poolman1]

Electric inspector says the water itself needs to be bonded, not just the metal frame and pool equipment etc.

Metal frame?

 

[JamesW]

 

[JamesW]

The product has to say that it is a qualified water bonding device.

https://www.c-m-p.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/10000-300-903-Pool-Defender-brochure_WEB.pdf

 

[xrabbi]

Thanks, all. No lighting in pool. By "metal frame" I meant the rebar.

 

[xrabbi]

Also noting that an inline water bonding device would only be in contact with the water when the pump is running.

 

[1poolman1]

Thanks, all. No lighting in pool. By "metal frame" I meant the rebar.

Most codes require a water bond with minimum 6 sq. in. of surface area in contact with the water. The device JamesW pictures meets that requirement. Inspecter should accept it.

 

[JamesW]

I am converting an old cement chlorine pool to SWG.

Your signature says vinyl, so that might cause some confusion.

Bonding the rebar in a concrete pool might constitute a water bond depending on the inspector's opinion.

If they don't accept it as a water bond, use a device listed for the purpose.

 

[Mdragger88]

Also noting that an inline water bonding device would only be in contact with the water when the pump is running.

Unless you’re draining the lines there should still be water in the pipes.

 

[JamesW]

Also noting that an inline water bonding device would only be in contact with the water when the pump is running.

The system should remain full of water when the pump is off.

You can install the bonding device below the water level if you want to maintain contact with the pool water even when the equipment is drained.