Residential Pump Stations - Classifications

[JWCELECTRIC]

What classifications are residential pumps stations per NFPA, since there is a potential for Methane Gas build up? The pump chamber is typically after the septic tank where the solids are gathered, and the chamber just pumps the liquids to the leaching field. Thanks

- JWC

 

[augie47]

It's an interesting question.
On an installation I questioned (two pumps) I have obtained engineering documentation (from the manufacturer) in the past that confirmed it was not a classified location.
One local jurisdiction requires seal-offs on all piping.
It appears to be approached differently in many jurisdictions.
Most of our singler pump systems in this area now use an direct buried "cable" and we avoid any classification issue.:smile:

 

[JWCELECTRIC]

I have seen these stations where the pumps are in the chamber and the cables from pumps are sleaved to a handhole with connections with standard wirenuts. I think there is potential all around. Does NFPA 820 come into effect?

 

[charlie]

. . . I have obtained engineering documentation (from the manufacturer) in the past that confirmed it was not a classified location. . .

That is my understanding as well.