What are the requirements for outlets used for pool equipment according to NEC Article 680?

The requirements for outlets used for pool equipment according to NEC Article 680 emphasize safety, particularly in relation to potential electric shock hazards in wet environments. Outlets that are near a pool must be GFCI-protected, which means they have Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter functionality that provides protection against ground faults, reducing the risk of electric shock.

In addition to being GFCI-protected, these outlets must also be installed a minimum distance of 5 feet from the pool’s edge. This distance helps to ensure that any potential electrical hazards are kept away from the immediate pool area, where people are likely to be in contact with water and might be more susceptible to electric shock.

The other options do not align with the safety requirements established by the NEC. While waterproof outlets are important for outdoor use, simply being waterproof and installed at any distance from the pool does not suffice for safety—instead, the specific distance and GFCI protection are crucial. Standard outlets without protection are not suitable in this high-risk area, as they do not offer the necessary safety features. Lastly, restricting the height to a maximum of 18 inches from the ground does not address the critical necessity of proper distance and GFCI protection that are pivotal in safeguarding users near