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Tuesday, January 8, 2019
Question:
2017 NEC code question: So I’m installing low voltage 12vac luminaire to a deck post near a pool/spa/inground hot tub. It is located little over 5 feet away from the inside wall and up 8 feet heigh. Art. 411.5 (b) says no less than 10 feet from nearest edge of pool unless permitted by article 680. So when I go to 680.22 (b)(6) it talks about within 5 feet with low voltage Luminaires. But my measurements are outside of 5 feet and 8 feet high . So when I look at 680.22 (b) 4 it looks like it just has to be rigidly attached because I’m over 5 feet heigh? I just don’t know if that means low voltage luminaries also ? What part of 680.22 does my installation fall under? Thanks Steve
A
Answer:
Hey Steve thanks for your question. The wording is not extremely clear but your installation is covered by 680.22(B)(6). Luminaires, lighting outlets and ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans, such as those on 120-volt circuits, between 5 and 10 feet horizontally from the inside walls, must have GFCI protection - unless they are at least 5 feet above the maximum water level and rigidly attached as stated in 680.22(B)(4). Listed low voltage luminaires that do not require grounding, and that don't exceed the low-voltage contact limit (as defined in 680.2) and are supplied by listed power supplies that are identified for swimming pool and spa use [680.23(A)(2)] are allowed within 5 from the inside walls of the pool as stated in 680.22(B)(6). If they are allowed inside the 5 ft dimension it makes sense, they would also be allowed beyond that dimension but that wording is missing. Make sure you also follow the instructions for the equipment.