What size should bonding conductors for all in-ground pools be?

The correct answer is based on the requirements outlined in the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC), which provides guidelines for electrical safety related to swimming pools. Specifically, bonding conductors are essential for ensuring that all metallic parts of the pool, including ladders, railings, and other conductive materials, are at the same electrical potential. This helps prevent electric shock hazards for individuals using the pool.

For in-ground pools, the CEC specifies that the bonding conductor must be sized appropriately to carry potential fault currents and ensure that all bonded parts are effectively grounded. The standard size for bonding conductors for in-ground pools is #6 AWG copper, which provides sufficient capacity to handle fault currents safely. This thickness minimizes resistance and helps ensure that any fault currents can be effectively dissipated, protecting users from electric shock.

Using a bonding conductor of this size is critical for maintaining safety standards in pool installations. Smaller sizes, such as #8 AWG or #10 AWG, do not provide the required capacity and could lead to overheating or failure during fault conditions. Conversely, larger sizes, such as #4 AWG, while not hazardous, are unnecessary and may complicate installation without providing additional safety benefits.

In summary, the necessity of using #6 AWG bonding conduct