What type of protection must a replacement or repaired pool pump motor have?

For a replacement or repaired pool pump motor, the requirement for GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection is a critical safety measure mandated by the National Electrical Code (NEC), particularly in Article 680, which deals with swimming pools, fountains, and similar installations. GFCI protection is essential because it helps prevent electric shock hazards that can occur in wet environments like swimming pools.

When a motor is repaired or replaced, ensuring that the GFCI is part of the circuit provides an additional layer of safety by continuously monitoring the electrical current flowing through the circuit. If it detects any imbalance between the outgoing and incoming current—indicating a potential leak of electricity, that could pose a risk to individuals in or near the water—the GFCI will trip and cut off the power, thereby helping to prevent serious injury or fatality.

While overload protection, surge protection, and fused protection serve their respective purposes in safeguarding equipment from damage due to excessive current, spikes, and overcurrent conditions, they do not address the specific safety concerns related to electrical shock in wet locations. These other protective measures are important but do not fulfill the specific requirement for GFCI protection necessary for pool pump motors as stipulated in the NEC.