What are the electrical requirements for an above-ground pool?
Electrical installations for above-ground pools in Quebec are governed by section 70 of the Quebec Construction Code:
Receptacle:
- A GFCI receptacle must be installed at least 1 meter and at most 3 meters from the pool
- The receptacle must be in a NEMA 3R weatherproof enclosure with automatic closing cover
Filter pump:
- Must be connected via TECK90 cable or rigid PVC/CDP conduit
- GFCI protection required for the pump
- Breaker: sized according to the pump's FLA (typically 15 A for standard residential pumps)
- Visible disconnect within 3 meters of the pump
Lighting:
- Submersible luminaires (if installed): 12 V AC only, powered by certified transformer
- Lighting above the pool: minimum height of 2.5 meters
Timer:
- The pump must be protected by a GFCI breaker (since the 2024 Code)
- Programmable timer recommended to comply with Hydro-Québec usage hours