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A backyard pool is one of the best places to cool off during the summer, but it also brings together two things that require extra care: water and electricity. Pool pumps, lighting, outdoor outlets, and other electrical equipment all play a role in keeping your pool running, but they should be installed, maintained, and used safely to help reduce electrical hazards.
Electric shock remains an important concern around pools as well. Organizations like the Electric Shock Drowning Prevention Association (ESDPA) work to raise awareness about the risks of electric shock drowning (ESD) and the importance of electrical safety in and around the water.
Whether you’re opening the pool for the season or enjoying a weekend swim, these simple electrical safety tips can help keep your family safe all summer long.
Precautions that Help Ensure a Safe Pool Environment
- Keep Distance: Maintain a safe distance between electrical outlets, fixtures, and any water sources such as pools, hot tubs, fountains, sprinklers, and hoses. Consult local electrical codes and adhere to their guidelines regarding the minimum distances required.
- Utilize GFCIs: Ensure that all electrical outlets, lighting fixtures, and equipment near a pool or recreational water source are equipped with GFCIs, and all switches are clearly labeled should you have to turn off power in an emergency. GFCIs automatically shut off the power if they detect a ground fault or current leakage, preventing potential electric shocks.
- Dry Hands and Feet: If you are using an electrical device or appliance around the pool, be sure to have dry hands and feet. Wear rubber-soled shoes to reduce the risk of shock.
- Be Mindful of Lighting: If an underwater light appears to have mold or moisture on the inside of the lens or the light flickers, this can indicate that moisture is getting in, which can present a shock hazard to anyone in the pool. If wired correctly with the proper GFCI protection, electricity should safely cut off if there is an electrical shock hazard. Reminder – if a breaker keeps tripping, stop resetting it and call an electrician.
- Education for All: Educate pool users about electrical safety precautions, such as avoiding the use of electrical devices near the pool and not swimming during thunderstorms. Install warning signs in visible locations to remind people of electrical safety practices and potential hazards.
Ting found a major problem with the electrical subpanel for our swimming pool equipment. It could have easily caused a fire and significantly damaged our home. They even helped us in obtaining a licensed electrical contractor and covered the majority of the cost to repair the problem. Many, many thanks to Ting their excellent customer service!
– John E. | California
Ensuring Proper Maintenance
Maintenance is a key aspect of electrical pool safety. By following expert guidelines and practicing diligent care, you can create a more secure and enjoyable swimming experience.
- Keep it Clean: Pool skimmers are a must for keeping the pool clear of larger debris. They have very long poles, though, so be sure to check around you for overhead electrical lines before using them.
- Inspect: Be sure to conduct regular inspections of all electrical components, including wiring, lighting, GFCIs, and other equipment, to identify any signs of wear, damage, or malfunction. Promptly address any issues by repairing or replacing damaged components.
- Work with Licensed Electricians: All electrical work to maintain your pool equipment, including wiring, switches/breakers, and equipment, should be designed and installed by licensed electricians who are knowledgeable about pool safety standards. Ensure that the materials and workmanship are appropriate for outdoor use and meet local electrical codes.
- Use Proper Equipment: Ensure that all electrical equipment installed near a pool or other recreational water source – such as lights, receptacles, and switches – is specifically designed for outdoor use and is weatherproof or waterproof. This helps protect against moisture, rain, and other outdoor elements, reducing the risk of electrical hazards.
An electrical hazard was discovered by Ting. Two electricians came and found the box near the pool was poorly installed probably by a previous owner for pool lights. One of the extra wires was folded over and probably would have led to a fire. It is now sealed and I am very relieved and grateful.
– Karen S. | California
A Note for Rental Owners and Renters
The same best practices hold true for rental owners and renters. If you rent your home, whether short-term or long-term, be sure your pool, spa, or hot tub is properly maintained, and safety information is clearly presented and available to the renter. If you are renting, be sure to assess these amenities and associated equipment/accessories, and all users are made aware of safety precautions. If it doesn’t look safe, it likely isn’t.
Beyond the Pool: Be cautious around docks, especially on lakes or bays. Electric Shock Drowning (ESD) can occur when faulty wiring—often a loose neutral connection—electrifies the water around docks. Just like pool shocks, this danger is invisible and can be deadly when someone jumps in unaware.
How Ting Can Help
Even with proper instantiation and maintenance, electrical hazards near pools are still a possibility, especially as equipment ages and wears. Just like in the home, Ting can monitor your pool’s electrical equipment for signals of arcing that indicate a risk of a fire. In the event of an identified hazard, you will receive an app alert as well as a personal text and call from the Ting Fire Safety Team. A Ting Fire Safety engineer will lead you through every step of repair to ensure your safety.
