Dive Right In
Make a Splash in Your Backyard
Whether it’s a calming koi pond or a revitalizing infinity pool, the addition of a water feature will turn your outdoor living space into a private oasis. Before you start digging, do some planning and consider the required electrical components.
It’s a well-known fact that water and electricity don’t mix. For this reason, pools, spas, hot tubs, decorative ponds and water features have very specific electrical requirements. This is where your Licensed Electrical Contractor’s input is critical. You don’t want that beautiful new pool to become a water hazard.
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Backyards come in all shapes and sizes, so consider the design and shape of the pool you have in mind, along with the available ground space. A vast open area may be calling out for a sleek modern-style lap pool surrounded by smooth grey concrete. Irregular yards sometimes work best with organic shapes that look more naturalized, especially when accented by granite. A waterfall feature can add a focal point to the setting while providing the tranquil sound of running water. Winter months are more bearable with a hot tub for year-round use.
No matter what type of pool you decide on, before you start digging call Ontario One Call to locate any utility-owned underground wires, gas lines and water and waste water pipes. You’ll need to hire an underground locating service for any privately-owned underground infrastructure such as the wiring to the shed. If there are any underground wires, they must maintain a distance of one to six metres from the walls of your pool.
Dive Into Planning
When planning for your pool, location matters. Look for a spot that’s easily accessible from the house and takes advantage of any natural views. Your Licensed Electrical Contractor will need to make sure the electrical source that powers your pool equipment or comes within 1.5 metres of any metal objects such as a pool ladder, is properly grounded and bonded. If not, just touching the bars on your metal pool ladder could be fatal!
You may also have hydro or other communications wires running to your house above where you’d like your pool. All of these power sources could become an electrical shock hazard if contact is made with pool tools like skimmers. To keep you and your family safe, there are specific distances that your pool must be from these overhead wires, which can be as much as 7.5 metres both horizontally and vertically. Licensed Electrical Contractors are required to know the Ontario Electrical Safety Code rules for this, and will work with your utility provider to ensure all wires are an appropriate distance from the pool.