Code Change Summary: New code section requires GFCI protection for replacement pool pump motors.
In the 2020 NEC®, the revised code language in 680.21(C) goes considerably further than the 2017 code language did by expanding the GFCI protection requirements to apply to ALL pool pump motors supplied from branch circuits rated 150 volts or less to ground and 60 amperes or less, single- or 3-phase. Previously, the requirement was only for single phase 120-volt through 240-volt branch circuit applications.
Additionally, new section 680.21(D) now requires GFCI protection for pool pump motor replacements. Adding GFCI protection requirements for existing pool pump motors that are replaced, even if GFCI protection was not required when the pool pump motor was originally installed, will help to ensure future pool safety.
The above code changes are greatly needed to ensure lives are not lost from easily preventable pool electrocutions.
Below is a preview of the NEC®. See the actual NEC® text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Once there, click on their link to free access to the 2020 NEC® edition of NFPA 70.
2017 Code Language:
680.21(C) GFCI Protection. Outlets supplying pool pump motors connected to single-phase, 120-volt through 240-volt branch circuits, whether by receptacle or by direct connection, shall be provided with ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for personnel.
2020 Code Language:
680.21(C) GFCI Protection. Outlets supplying all pool motors on branch circuits rated 150 volts or less to ground and 60 amperes or less, single- or 3-phase, shall be provided with Class A ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection.
Exception: Listed low-voltage motors not requiring grounding, with ratings not exceeding the low-voltage contact limit that are supplied by listed transformers or power supplies that comply with 680.23(A)(2), shall be permitted to be installed without GFCI protection.
N 680.21(D) Pool Pump Motor Replacement. Where a pool pump motor in 680.21(C) is replaced for maintenance or repair, the replacement pump motor shall be provided with ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection.
Which of the following is true when replacing a pool pump motor connected to an existing branch circuit without GFCI protection?
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