The National Electrical Code (NEC) has established critical requirements for electrical safety in swimming pools, particularly concerning proper water bonding. The CMP Pool Defender product line offers a range of solutions designed to meet these requirements, ensuring both safety and compliance for both in-ground and above-ground pools. This article provides a detailed overview of the installation process for CMP Pool Defender water bonding products, based on the specifications and guidelines provided in the source material.
Understanding the Importance of Pool Water Bonding
Pool water bonding is a critical safety measure mandated by the National Electrical Code (NEC). According to NEC Section 680.26, all conductive pool components, including the water itself, must be electrically bonded to prevent the risk of electric shock. This is especially relevant in modern pool designs where traditional metal niches—once used as bonding points—are being replaced with plastic or nicheless LED lighting systems.
Without proper bonding, an electrical fault could create a dangerous potential difference across the pool water, posing a serious risk to swimmers. The CMP Pool Defender product line was developed to address this need by providing alternative bonding solutions that are both effective and easy to install.
Overview of CMP Pool Defender Products
CMP offers a variety of Pool Defender products tailored to different pool setups and requirements. These include:
Pool Defender Water Bond Skimmer – Designed for in-ground pools, particularly gunite pools, this skimmer features an integrated stainless steel bonding plate and copper wire for a secure connection to the pool’s bonding grid.
Inline Anode & Water Bond – A compact unit that can be installed inline with the pool plumbing. It includes a sacrificial zinc anode and a bonding plate to protect against galvanic corrosion and ensure compliance with NEC standards.
Above Ground Pump Water Bond – A bonding kit that can be retrofitted to an above-ground pool pump through the strainer drain plug. It is designed for minimal modification and easy installation.
Econ Union Water Bond – Another inline solution, this product is ideal for saltwater pools and includes a bonding plate and copper wire to ensure effective grounding.
Each of these products is ETL certified to UL and CSA standards, ensuring that they meet rigorous safety and performance requirements.
Installation of the Pool Defender Water Bond Skimmer
The Pool Defender Water Bond Skimmer is a specialized skimmer designed for in-ground pools. It is particularly suitable for gunite pools and features a dual-port design to improve water circulation and skimming efficiency. The skimmer includes an integrated stainless steel bonding plate and a copper wire that can be connected directly to the pool’s bonding grid.
Installation Steps
Preparation
- Ensure that the skimmer is compatible with the existing pool plumbing system. The Pool Defender Water Bond Skimmer uses a 2" socket x 2.5" spigot connection, which is standard for many in-ground pool systems.
- Locate the bonding grid or bonding wire in the pool structure. This is typically connected to all conductive components, including ladders, light fixtures, and metal fittings.
Mounting the Skimmer
- Install the skimmer in the pool wall in the same manner as a standard skimmer. The dual-port design allows for improved water circulation and debris removal.
- Ensure that the skimmer is securely fastened and that the gasket is properly seated to prevent leaks.
Connecting the Bonding Wire
- The skimmer includes a copper wire that exits the back of the unit. This wire should be connected to the pool’s bonding grid using a suitable connector, such as a compression fitting or a terminal block.
- Ensure that the connection is secure and that the wire is properly insulated to prevent damage from moisture or chemicals.
Final Inspection
- Once the skimmer is installed and the bonding wire is connected, inspect the installation for any gaps or inconsistencies. The bonding plate should be in direct contact with the pool water to ensure effective grounding.
- Verify that the skimmer functions as expected, with no leaks and optimal skimming performance.
Compliance Check
- The Pool Defender Water Bond Skimmer is designed to meet NEC requirements without the need for additional bonding at the pool light. This makes it an ideal solution for pools that use nicheless LED lighting.
- Confirm that the installation complies with local electrical codes and that all connections are secure and properly insulated.
Installation of the Inline Anode & Water Bond
The Inline Anode & Water Bond is a compact unit designed for installation within the pool’s plumbing system. It includes a sacrificial zinc anode and a bonding plate to protect against galvanic corrosion and ensure proper grounding.
Installation Steps
Location Selection
- Choose a suitable location in the pool plumbing system where the anode can be installed inline. This is typically between the pool pump and the filter, where water flow is consistent and the anode can remain in contact with the water.
- Ensure that the installation location allows for easy access to the anode in the future for replacement or inspection.
Plumbing Connection
- The Inline Anode & Water Bond can be plumbed into a 2" or 2.5" system. Install the unit using appropriate plumbing fittings to ensure a secure and leak-free connection.
- Ensure that the flow of water is not restricted by the anode unit and that the clear lid is properly sealed to prevent water leakage.
Bonding Connection
- The unit includes a bonding plate that must be connected to the pool’s bonding grid. Use a suitable connector to secure the copper wire to the grid, ensuring a direct and continuous electrical path.
- The bonding plate must remain in constant contact with the pool water to meet NEC requirements.
Anode Maintenance
- The zinc anode provides a sacrificial path for electrical current, protecting other metal components in the pool from corrosion. Over time, the anode will erode and must be replaced when approximately half of it has been consumed.
- The clear lid on the unit allows for easy inspection and replacement of the anode without the need to disassemble the entire plumbing system.
Final Inspection
- Once the unit is installed, inspect the connections for leaks and ensure that the anode is properly positioned in the water flow.
- Verify that the unit is functioning correctly and that the bonding connection is secure and compliant with NEC standards.
Installation of the Above Ground Pump Water Bond
The Above Ground Pump Water Bond is a retro-fit bonding kit designed for above-ground pools. It allows for the installation of a bonding system through the strainer drain plug of the existing pump, requiring minimal modification to the pump itself.
Installation Steps
Preparation
- Verify that the pump is compatible with the Above Ground Pump Water Bond. The kit is designed to work with standard above-ground pool pumps and requires only the strainer drain plug for installation.
- Ensure that the pump is turned off and disconnected from power before beginning installation.
Kit Installation
- The bonding kit includes a conductive plug that replaces the standard strainer drain plug. Install the plug into the pump’s strainer drain port, ensuring that it is securely seated and makes direct contact with the pump housing.
- The plug is designed to provide a minimum conductive surface area of nine square inches, as required by NEC Section 680.26(C).
Bonding Connection
- A copper wire is included with the kit and must be connected to the pool’s bonding grid. Ensure that the wire is securely fastened to the grid and that the connection is properly insulated.
- The bonding connection should be tested to ensure that it provides a continuous electrical path from the pump to the bonding grid.
Final Inspection
- Once the bonding kit is installed, inspect the pump for any signs of damage or leakage.
- Confirm that the pump operates normally and that the bonding system is functioning as intended.
Compliance Check
- The Above Ground Pump Water Bond is designed to meet NEC requirements for above-ground pools. Ensure that the installation is in compliance with local electrical codes and that all connections are secure and properly insulated.
Benefits and Considerations
Each of the CMP Pool Defender products offers distinct advantages depending on the type of pool and the specific bonding requirements. The water bond skimmer is ideal for in-ground pools with gunite or concrete construction, while the inline anode is particularly useful for saltwater pools that use salt chlorine generators. The above ground pump water bond is a simple and effective solution for above-ground pools that may lack traditional bonding points.
When selecting a bonding solution, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Compatibility – Ensure that the chosen product is compatible with the existing pool system and plumbing.
- Ease of Installation – Choose a product that can be easily installed without requiring major modifications to the pool structure.
- Durability – Look for products made from durable materials such as ABS or stainless steel, which can withstand exposure to pool chemicals and environmental conditions.
- Compliance – Verify that the product meets NEC and local electrical code requirements to ensure safety and regulatory compliance.
Conclusion
Proper pool water bonding is essential for the safety of swimmers and the protection of pool equipment. The CMP Pool Defender product line offers a range of solutions that are both effective and easy to install, ensuring compliance with NEC requirements. Whether you are working with an in-ground or above-ground pool, there is a Pool Defender solution that can meet your specific needs. By following the installation instructions carefully and ensuring that all connections are secure and properly insulated, pool owners can maintain a safe and compliant water bonding system.