Five tips when working around pools and spas
Pool installations always present challenges for electrical contractors due to the heightened requirements for equipment selection in the pool zones and the additional requirements around equipotential bonding.
Pools can be complicated, and their installation requires careful planning and communication. It is always easier to plan out our installation when we have all the information.
Here are five key steps to help develop strong procedures when doing pool electrical work.
-
Classify the zones
Section 6.3 (Swimming Pools, Paddling Pools and Spa Pools or Tubs) of The Wiring Rules sets out the requirements for the pool zones and the electrical equipment allowed to be installed in these zones.
Once the zones have been determined we can make some informed decisions around location and selection (IP rating) of electrical equipment.
-
Determine equipotential bonding requirements
Once zoning requirements have been determined you can make informed decisions around equipotential bonding plus location of any conductive materials within arm’s reach of the pool edge that may require bonding.
Keep in mind there are two considerations here. That is, the equipotential bonding requirements of the pool structure and electrical equipment, plus the ‘arm’s reach zone’ for conductive fixtures and fittings as per 5.6.2.6 of the Wiring Rules.
-
Discuss electrical equipment selection and suggest any changes or relocations
Pools are complicated installs. Be aware of potential and apparent issues that emerge from the plan and during the installation. Examine what the issues are and put together some possible solutions. Communications are vital in projects like these. Offer some solutions and problem solve any issues that have arisen. Equipotential bonding is electrical work and should only be completed by a licenced electrician, but that is something that will be discussed in the webinar.
-
Discuss eliminating any conductive fixtures and fittings within arm’s reach of the pool edge
Some of the most difficult items to deal with in the pool and spa area are conductive materials within arm’s reach of the pool or spa edge. If it is possible to move them or choose alternative materials, it can make the installation a whole lot easier.
-
Discuss installation wiring and equipotential bonding required to be installed prior to construction
Now that we have planned out what is going to be installed, discuss what needs to be done to make this happen. Discuss timeframes. Detail the conduit routes. With all the information, we can communicate clearly and accurately about what is required to achieve the desired outcome.
If you have questions about working around pools and spas, Master Electricians have unlimited access to the MEA Technical Hotline. If you need any technical assistance, speak direct to the experts on 1300 889 198.
More from MEA
- Worker jailed after apprentice his in head with concrete
- What to know about new IR laws bill
- 12 common SWMS and risk assessment questions answered