At what maximum distance from the inside walls of a pool must all receptacles rated 125V through 250V, and 60A or less, have GFCI protection?

Receptacles rated 125V through 250V and 60A or less must have GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection when located within a certain distance from the inside walls of a pool due to the potential for electric shock hazards in wet environments. According to the National Electrical Code (NEC), this maximum distance is established to ensure safety in areas that can be exposed to water.

In this case, the correct answer of 20 feet aligns with the NEC requirements that specifically state GFCI protection is necessary for receptacles that are installed within 20 feet of the inside walls of a pool. This distance is designed to minimize the risk of accidental electric shock should a person come into contact with water near the receptacle while using electrical appliances.

By requiring GFCI protection within this range, the NEC aims to protect individuals from serious injuries that could occur if the electrical current were to flow through water – a highly conductive medium. Therefore, understanding this safety measure, and recognizing that the GFCI devices can cut off electricity at the first sign of a ground fault, underscores the importance of complying with this code in pool areas.