This has probably been asked before, but I need a definitive answer:
Per 1999 NEC (and 2002) am I allowed to use NMC in a Single Family building to feed a Pool Motor or a Hot Tub that is located outside the building. The NMC will run to an interior Junction Box where the wiring method will transition into RNC (PVC)-and-THHN to the exterior.
For clarification: the Pool Motor has a Single Pole Switch as the Disconnecting (plus GFCI protection and a Twist-Lock Cord & Plug), and the Disconnecting Means for the Hot Tub will be a 50-Amp GFCI Breaker in a Rain-Tight Enclosure.

from the hip..i believe the code crux will be the 'insulated' grounding conductor here.

[This message has been edited by sparky (edited 05-07-2003).]

see 680.21(4) and 680.42 (in 2002 NEC)
Be aware that local codes may differ.

[This message has been edited by Bill Addiss (edited 05-07-2003).]

(1999) 680-25(c) - Methods of Grounding Motors

3rd paragraph - "in the interior of a one-family dwelling...any of the wiring methods recognized in Chap. 3 that contain a copper EGC that is insulated or covered by the outer sheath [read NM]...shall be permitted"

2002 says the same [simpler language].

Thanks for answers so far BUT: I believe the intent of the NEC is to allow NMC in the Interior of a Single Family Building but why is it in the Pool Motor section and not for ALL Pool associated equipment? Or does it mean for MOTORS that are in the interior since it is only in the Motor Section?? And SOARS says “Note that this wiring method does not apply to the supply of spas and hot tubs that are located outdoors.” And the IAEI 1-&-2 Family book says: “….does not apply to branch circuits for spas and hot tubs. The electrical equipment that service spas and hot tubs commonly includes panelboards, control panels, motors and heaters.”
Just some thoughts I get aimed at me. Any help will be appreciated.

Answer to first question, yes.

Bill,

I agree with you that if a MOTOR was wired, then NMC wire inside of a house would be OK as per, 680-25(c). However if there is a pool light or a sub panel, then 680-24(4)b) and 680-24(d) would not allow it. Then the pipe would have to be run inside of the house.

Harold,

I can't look at your sections right now because my '99 is among the missing, But I agree with your comments. Since the question was specifically on Motors I did not delve into other things.

Is there still a restriction on installing wiring for Underwater Fixtures from some types of sub-panels? can't seem to spot it in the 2002 NEC.

In 680.23(F)(2) it requires an "insulated copper equipment grounding conductor installed with the circuit conductors".... and "without joint or splice" ... I don't see any mention of existing sub-panels, or other reference to the source of the circuit.

Bill

[This message has been edited by Bill Addiss (edited 05-07-2003).]

Bill

How about 680.25(A)

Curt

Curt,

Ah, that's what I was looking for, thanks.

Now, how do we define "Existing" ?


Bill

If you hesitate to use NM cable, notice that ENT (smurf tube) is also now acceptable on the inside of the building.
'99 NEC. 680-25(b)(3) & 680-25(d)

Gentlemen:
Also keep in mind the conductors within the conduit (PVC) that's in the trench, has to have a "W" in the insulation. (THWN)

John

Bill,

That is correct and that is why I stated the fact that a motor CAN be wired in NMC wire inside a house, but a panel or pool light can not. Too many times contractors get that confused. Pool wirng is not that difficult if everyone did it correctly. However too many people try to cut corners and get stuck on the installation because of it.

So...is the insulated grounding conductor required outside a hedge againt external influence?

I have done many pool installs in the South Jersey area and I usually run inside the house with 12/2MC(I make it a personal policy to generally not use BX for any thing these days {I know that there is many schools of thought regarding this, but that is a whole other post}), then I transition to plastic pipe through the back of a 1900 box/LB fitting on the exterior wall leading down into the trench. I have not had any inspection problems and I usually do splice the insulated ground in the aforementioned 1900 box.