Pool Electrical Safety Guide

Electrical shocks in a pool occur when the Neutral-to-Earth Voltage (NEV) is brought into the pool vicinity by the grounded neutral from either the utility distribution system or the residential wiring system. Since pool equipment (pumps, lights, ladders) are grounded to protect from hazardous shocks due to electrical faults, the NEV always exists.

The typical Voltage measured in the swimming pool ranges between 0 and 4 Volts and may cause a tingling sensation when a person comes in contact with the Voltage. It is very important to understand that the Voltage can never be totally eliminated, but it can be reduced below the level at which a shock can be detected.

Your Cooperative is dedicated to ensure you have a safe summer, here’s what you need to know.

Typical NEV shocking complaints around the pool include:

 Contacting handrails while getting out of the water

 Putting hands on the pool deck while in the water

 Sitting on the pool deck with the feet in the water

 Feeling a tingling sensation and/or     experiencing muscle cramps

 Contacting the pool water and the fill dirt on the side while the pool is under construction

 Children and elderly people are more susceptible to swimming pool shocks due to thin skin.

If you experience any of these problems listed above, or if you have any other  concerns, please call a licensed electrician immediately.  

Hire a licensed electrician to do the following:

 Make sure there is no exposed wiring in or around the swimming pool.

 Check all neutral connections inside the electrical panel.

 Check the residential system ground rod to see if there is any Voltage on the ground rod.

 Check to see if there is equal potential between the pool equipment (pump, ladder, slide, railing, lighting) and the pool water.

 Check to see if everything is properly bonded to the grounding grid.

 Check to see if there is any broken coping along the pool edge.

 Check to make sure the pump motor is properly grounded.

 Check for continuity on any underground wires near the swimming pool (Broken or frayed underground wires will produce a short-circuit causing voltage in a swimming pool.

If nothing is found, contact the Cooperative at 855-332-9090.

Make sure your electrician has installed your swimming pool equipment in accordance with the latest Code requirements.

Avoid the pool during thunderstorms. If you hear thunder, stop swimming.

Know where to go and how to shut-off all power going to pool equipment.

Keep all electrical appliances, boxes, switches, receptacles and extension cords at least five-feet from the pool deck.

Have an electrician inspect your pool to ensure all wiring and grounding is up to Code.

Do not place portable or temporary pools in the vicinity of power lines, poles or transformers.

Make sure you are completely dried off after getting out of the pool. Water is a great conductor of electricity.