Code Change Summary: Changes in 680.21(C) make it clear that all single-phase, 120-volt through 240-volt branch circuits serving pool motors require ground-fault circuit-interrupter (GFCI) protection for personnel.

GFCI requirements are expanding and are expected to keep doing so in the years to come. Requirements for GFCI protection on branch circuits supplying pool motors first appeared in the 2008 NEC^® but the rules only applied to single-phase, 120 volt through 240 volt branch circuits, rated 15 or 20 amperes.

In the 2014 NEC^®, the GFCI protection has expanded to include any outlet supplying pool pump motors connected to single-phase, 120-volt through 240-volt branch circuits, regardless of ampacity.

The same hazard exists for swimmers whether the pool recirculating pump motor is rated 15, 20, 30 or 100 amps. Requiring GFCI protection on these single phase pool pump motors regardless of ampacity ensures an even greater level of safety for swimmers.

Below is a preview of the NEC^®.  See the actual NEC^® text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Once there, click on the “free access” tab and select the applicable year of NFPA 70 (National Electrical code).