What is primarily assessed when determining if a bonding jumper is necessary?

The determination of whether a bonding jumper is necessary primarily revolves around the potential energization of surfaces. This concept is critical in ensuring safety in environments where electrical equipment or conductive components might be in contact with water, such as pools and spas. In these situations, there is a risk that faulty equipment could create a dangerous voltage potential on surfaces, potentially leading to electric shock hazards for individuals who come into contact with these surfaces.

The bonding jumper serves to create a continuous electrical connection among conductive surfaces, thus equalizing the electrical potential and reducing the risk of electric shock. By assessing the potential for surfaces to become energized, one can determine the necessity of installing bonding jumpers to ensure safety and compliance with electrical code requirements.

Other factors, such as electrical load and water quality, do not directly inform the need for a bonding jumper in the same manner as potential energization does. While electrical frequency may be relevant to different aspects of electrical systems, it is not a primary consideration in assessing the necessity for bonding jumpers in safety applications related to water features.