I was wondering why pool pumps come with a 3 foot cord? Do they not expect the use of extensions and if so should the extension be as short as possible and at least come close to the Gauge of the pump cord? My power is about 4 feet above my pump and a few feet to the right. I have a new Waterway PH2200-6 2hp 2spd pump and getting ready to hook it up soon.
Extension cords for AG Pool pump?
- Thread starter tnt69
- Start date
First, I am not an electrician, so you will need to verify your installation meets your local codes.
It comes down to the rules of the NEC (National Electric Code) rules. There is a specific line in the code that says the cord shall not exceed 3 feet in length. NEC expects that a dedicated GFCI protected outlet is installed to run the pool pump (and no extension cords). You don't mention it, but outlets have to be a certain distance away from pool walls as well, 5 feet I believe.
Also, you shouldn't use an extension cord between the outlet and the pump. Extension cords are not meant to be used as a permanent installation. You really should have a dedicated GFCI protected outlet installed to run the pool pump. Have a timer installed as well to help you save $$$ on electricity.
Call your local code enforcement office. They are there to answer questions as well.
It comes down to the rules of the NEC (National Electric Code) rules. There is a specific line in the code that says the cord shall not exceed 3 feet in length. NEC expects that a dedicated GFCI protected outlet is installed to run the pool pump (and no extension cords). You don't mention it, but outlets have to be a certain distance away from pool walls as well, 5 feet I believe.
Also, you shouldn't use an extension cord between the outlet and the pump. Extension cords are not meant to be used as a permanent installation. You really should have a dedicated GFCI protected outlet installed to run the pool pump. Have a timer installed as well to help you save $$$ on electricity.
Call your local code enforcement office. They are there to answer questions as well.
- Jul 21, 2013
- 53,052
- Pool Size
- 35000
- Surface
- Plaster
- Chlorine
- Salt Water Generator
- SWG Type
- Pentair Intellichlor IC-60
1) Pool Pump Receptacle (Outlet) and Wiring Method
A. If a pump motor receptacle is located between 5’ – 10’ from the inside pool wall, the receptacle must be a single twist-lock outlet, grounded, and GFCI protected. Maximum flexible cord length for pump is 3 Ft.
B. Receptacle must have a weatherproof cover that can be closed when the cord is plugged in. (In-use type/bubble cover)
C. Circuit for the pump motor shall not be less than #12 AWG insulated copper grounded wire, and must be in conduit. (Except when within a building the wire can change to NM) (Cannot use NM wire in underground conduits)
A. If a pump motor receptacle is located between 5’ – 10’ from the inside pool wall, the receptacle must be a single twist-lock outlet, grounded, and GFCI protected. Maximum flexible cord length for pump is 3 Ft.
B. Receptacle must have a weatherproof cover that can be closed when the cord is plugged in. (In-use type/bubble cover)
C. Circuit for the pump motor shall not be less than #12 AWG insulated copper grounded wire, and must be in conduit. (Except when within a building the wire can change to NM) (Cannot use NM wire in underground conduits)