How to Wire an Above Ground Pool Pump | Ask This Old House

Ask This Old House master electrician Scott Caron teaches the safest way to wire a pool.

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Cost: $250

Time: 4 hours

Skill Level: Moderate

Tools List for Wiring an Above Ground Pool Pump:
Shovels
Drill with Spade Bit
Screwdriver
Lineman’s Pliers
Wire Strippers

Shopping List:
12-2 non metallic cable
12 gauge wire
8 gauge wire
Electrical boxes and conduit
Flexible sealant
PVC glue
Red caution tape
Post for outlets
Timer for Pool Pumps
Twist lock receptacle
Weatherproof cover
GFCI circuit breaker
Wire nuts

Steps:
1. Working with electricity around a pool can be dangerous. Working with a licensed electrician is recommended.
2. Before doing any electrical work, ensure the power is turned off at the circuit breaker.
3. Dig a 24” deep trench for the underground wire.
4. Drill a hole to the inside of the house where the electrical panel is located. Use an extension if needed to get through the wall.
5. Fish two 12-2 non metallic cables through the hole into the basement, then attach them to a plastic electrical box.
6. Run conduit from the box into the trench. Continue the conduit into the trench and then into the post.
7. Feed three individual 12 gauge wires through the conduit into the post.
8. Mount the timer to the wall.
9. Wire the twist lock receptacle.
10. Plug in the pool pump and cover it with a weatherproof cover.
11. With the main service off to the house, wire in GFCI circuit breakers to the electrical panel.
12. Connect an 8 gauge wire to the metal posts of the pool, the pump, and the metal plate on the skimmer and then wire that to the pump to bond the entire pool.

Resources:
All of the tools and material used can be found at the local home center or the local electrical supply center.

Expert assistance with this project was provided by Caron Electric (caronelectric.com).

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How to Wire an Above Ground Pool Pump | Ask This Old House
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