Pool Pump

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rwooten

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I have a 1 1/2 HP Pool pump that has a FLA of 9.2 Amps at 240VAC. I havent gone through all of the calculations yet, but since this pump should be GFCI protected here's my question. The smallest square-D QO GFCI 220 Circuit breaker is 40Amps. Would this be OK for this application? I would rewire the motor to 120, but FLA is 19.2 at 120 VAC, and the highest GFCI 120V breaker is 20 Amps. What should I do? :confused:
 
Re: Pool Pump

Square D makes 2-pole QO GFCI breakers in 15, 20 25, 30, 40, 50 and 60 amp ratings. If this pump is hardwired GFCI protection is not required.

Curt
 
Re: Pool Pump

I feel like this is another area of the code that needs to be reworded.It seems that the code intent is to gfi protect the receptacle outlet if the pump is plugged in, not to gfi protect the motor.The outlet could inadvertantly be used by someone for another purpose other than the pump.The code now is worded to make us think that the pump motor itself needs gfi protection which it does not.Most hot tubs are required to be gfi protected which have motors,Why doesn't a pool pump motor (hard wired or not) need to be?
 
Re: Pool Pump

I found the other rated breakers in a catalog at work, the web site was vague. Thanks.

I agree, anything related to a pool should be protected by GFCI weather hard wired or not. I wonder what the reasoning is for just protecting a plugged in pump?
 
Re: Pool Pump

I don't know the panel's thinking on this one but if a hot tub were to be installed, what is the likelihood that Joe Homeowner will do it? In the case of a pool, a more knowledgeable contractor will likely do the installation.

It is my opinion that if everything is properly grounded, GFCI protection is not needed. That is the reason for few requirements for GFCI protection in commercial and industrial areas. When Joe Homeowner gets involved, grounding goes out the window. The intent of the GFCI is to protect Joe and his family from himself. :D
 
Re: Pool Pump

Often there is more than just a motor in a hot tub.Lights,controls,blowers,as well as the pump.Often all in one neat package.Many plug right into 120 volt outlets.Some hazards do exist on older non grounded homes and who will be there to enforce where the homeowner puts the tub or if he uses an exstention cord.Some of the same problems happen with above ground pools.
Was often told to add a 50 amp 240 volt junction box for a hot tub on a roughin.I installed 50 amp gfci breaker and a 60 amp pullout disc.I can not recall even once being asked to go back and hook up the tub.Either homeowner did this or the hot tub company.Pool and tub companies can often RENT a license to do the work.

[ October 02, 2004, 09:51 AM: Message edited by: jimwalker ]
 
Re: Pool Pump

Just keep in mind when talking about homeowners,most of us are homeowners ourselves.The code doesn't distinguish between homeowners,electricians,2 year olds, men or women We are all personell and that is what we are trying to protect.I don't see how something that is properly grounded could totally eliminate gfi protection.There is the possibility of enough leak current on a non gfi protected outlet to cause a fatality to even a career electrician without tripping the breaker.
 
Re: Pool Pump

if you can confirm with 100% clarity what path a leak current will take,you are a better man than I am.
 
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