Your pool should be your safe haven and not a place you’re worried about when hanging out in it. Besides the obvious dangers of drowning at home pools, the most prevalent pitfalls of any swimming pools at home are electrical issues.
Water and electricity are not a friendly mix, you already know that, which means it requires you to be extra careful handling electricity in and around your pool. Our informative guide explores it all, from what the hazards to how you can keep the area safe. Let’s get started, pools & electrical safety: essential tips for a safer pool.
The Dangers of Electricity Around Your Pool
You already know the risk of water and electricity. With chances of faulty wiring, damaged electrical equipment, or improperly grounded pool tools can cause serious injuries and even fatalities, due to electrocution.
Another major peril of electricity going haywire in your pool is electric shock drowning (ESD), this happens when low-level electric currents pass through water and paralyze those swimming, potentially leading to drowning.
Also, while this isn’t necessarily a common occurrence, lightning strikes near pools cause electrocution, which makes it super important for you and your family to be extra safe during crazy weather.
Essential Tips For A Safer Pool
We know you’re aware of the risks of electricity in and around your pool and are possibly anxious to know how you can keep it safe. Because let’s face it, you have to find some way to make the two agree so you can keep those pretty lights on at night, without it shocking or causing anyone to drown.
Below are some key tips for a safer pool, while making sure all your electrical needs are taken care of.
- Install GFCIs or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters
GFCIs are crucial in preventing electric shocks by shutting off power when any fault is detected. Make sure that all of your electrical outlets, lighting, and pool equipment are connected to high-quality GFCIs. It is also super important you test them regularly to know they’re working properly.
- Keep Electrical Devices Away From Your Pool
While answering emails while sipping on your pina-colada and floating on your flamingo floatie on your pool sounds and feels great, save the work-from-pool for the inside of your home.
Not only are you at great risk of electrocuting yourself, but you could also potentially end up damaging your device. Take the selfie, leave your phone in a dry spot, and come back into the pool. The snaps can wait.
- Ensure Proper Bonding and Grounding
Proper bonding and grounding helps prevent stray electrical currents from posing a threat to swimmers. Make sure to hire a licensed electrician to inspect and ensure all pool components and tools, such as ladders, railings, and lighting, are properly grounded.
Consider consulting a professional who is specialized in working with pool-related electrical work. You can find a pool electrician in St. Louis, MO who can ensure your system is up to code.
- Regular Electrical Inspections
This is something we all neglect, regular inspections. It is very important to schedule annual inspections of your pool’s electrical systems. Over time, wiring can degrade, which increases the risk of your or your family getting hurt around the pool.
A professional electrician will be able identify and resolve potential issues before they become major and dangerous issues.
- Use Pool-Safe Lighting
We know you have to have those pretty lights in your pool, who doesn’t? That’s why pool-safe lighting will be your best friend. Install low-voltage, waterproof lighting that are designed specifically for pools.
Once all the installation is complete, make sure that all wiring is properly sealed and regularly checked for wear and tear. Test the lighting several times, preferably by an electrician, so you’re confirmed and relieved of all your concerns.
- Be Careful During Storms
Water conducts electricity and severe weather conditions can be risky for handling electricity around your pool. It’s best you don’t use the pool during lightning and/or thunderstorms. Actually, it’s best not to use your pool at that time beyond just electrical reasons.
- Educate and Inform Your Family Members
You have to educate and make your family members aware of all the dangers surrounding electricity and your pool. Teach little children to not touch outlets or tools when their hands are wet, or use devices in wet spaces.
You should also teach them to not walk pets in those areas , especially when electrical devices are on and running. Educate them about the importance of not using devices in the pool early on.
- Hire A Licensed Electrician for Installation and Repair
While DIY sounds cool and does save money, DIY electrical work around pools can be dangerous. Always consult a licensed and reputable electrician to handle pool wiring, lighting, and equipment installations.
A professional electrician makes sure that all electrical tools meet safety regulations, reducing the risks of electrocution and other dangers. They have the expertise to install GFCIs, properly bond and ground electrical systems, and inspect for any issues that might not be visible to an untrained eye.
Licensed electricians can also replace outdated wiring and install energy-efficient lighting, saving you trouble and money. Consider spending a little more money than usual on a reputable professional, as the safety and peace of mind will pay off long-term.
Before you choose the pool electrician you want to work with, make sure they have all the necessary certifications. Look up recommendations and credentials so rest assured, your pool lights never have to be turned off.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed our take on pool electrical safety. It is very important to take it into consideration, as we often take using electricity around our pool for granted.
Never let any fixable issues ruin your pool time, hire a licensed electrician today and keep your pool safe as ever!