Electrical for submersible pond pump?


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Old 05-26-16, 04:03 PM
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Electrical for submersible pond pump?

Small pond (about 5ft diam) using a submerged pump to push water through a couple decorative fixtures at edge of pond. The pump is powered from a std 120v wall switch inside the house, not on a GFCI breaker. The pump power cord is tied directly by wire nuts to the power conductors at an undersized junction box (without a cover) about 3ft from the pond.
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Apparently a DIY by previous homeowner. It was hidden by nearby plants so we missed it during home inspection. As I read it, NEC 682 applies and for the pump stipulates a GFCI protected receptacle at least 5ft (horiz) from pond and 1ft above electrical datum (3ft above surface my location).

Does this require a service disconnect ahead of and nearby the receptacle?

Given the 5ft & 3ft requirements, it would seem a submersible pump with a rather long (10ft or so) power cord would be needed.
 
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Old 05-26-16, 04:12 PM
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A cord and plug will serve as the disconnect. The GFCI receptacle needs to be outdoor rated and an in-use cover installed. Are you replacing the pump or just adding a plug to the cord?

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http://www.amazon.com/Arlington-Indu.../dp/B002W6ZP0K
 
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Old 05-26-16, 04:14 PM
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In your picture.... that "cover" is called an LB. It's actually used as a pull point when pulling wires thru a pipe.

Your description of receptacle placement is good. Yes... it needs to be a GFI receptacle or protected circuit.

Most of those pumps are designed for light duty pumping.... especially pool covers. I have several of them. The cords are 10-15' long.
 
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Old 05-26-16, 05:35 PM
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Thx guys, appreciated. Yes, I'm replacing the pump, it's pretty ancient anyway.
 
 

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