After months of research, discussion, planning, and saving, you’re finally having an inground pool installed. And now all you can think of is the finished product – your very own backyard oasis. But before you start shopping for lounge chairs, umbrellas, and pool toys, there is one key aspect that you should not ignore – the electrical work. In fact, electrical installation and wiring might be the most important consideration when dealing with any water source.

Read on as we dive into pool bonding and grounding, and how they work together to keep your pool and family safe.

What is pool bonding?

Bonding is the joining of the metallic and electrical components of a pool to form a non-resistive path between them. The goal is to connect and contain electrical voltage while preventing it from being transmitted to any pool equipment and, more importantly, people and pets. The process involves connecting a pool’s electrical and non-electrical metal components and containing the electricity that allows harmful electrical current to flow and trip the breaker at a panel so that someone touching a metal pool rail or even the water doesn’t conduct a stray current.

What is pool grounding?

Grounding involves connecting the bonded pool components to the earth so that any harmful electrical current is directed and dissipated to the ground and away from pool equipment and people. During the grounding process, a pool’s electrical network is connected to the electrical panel and then to the earth. This prevents pool equipment and people from being conductors of electricity.

How do bonding and grounding work together?

Together, bonding and grounding ensure electrical safety. Non-current-carrying metal components like pool rails are electrically bonded/interconnected. Electrical components such as pumps are grounded to the earth so that no electrical potential can exist between them. A lack of proper bonding and grounding can lead to shocks, electrocution, and worse. So, it’s essential to hire a licensed electrician who is experienced in pool electrical wiring and safety.

And here we are, Excel Electric. Pool wiring is a specialty of ours, which translates into greater skill and more experience – all for your benefit. Contact us today for any home electrical wiring need – pool, hot tub, and all the rest.