Why can't extension cords be used?

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Q

qwertyjjj

0
Jul 7, 2012
75
Québec, Canada
I've read a few posts saying you can't use extension cords with the pump for an ago. If the extension cord is plugged into a gfci recruitable in the garage then what is it that prevents you using (assuming you have the connection induce a waterproof or in use electrical cover)?
Why is that any different to just plugging the pump into the gfci?
 
I assume you are talking about plugging in an above ground pool filter pump? 110V?

The issue is the extension cord and the safety of having a cord laying on the ground, permanently. The current draw of your pump would require a commercial quality cord.

It is best to have an electrician install a proper electrical outlet near your equipment pad.

Take care.
 
TFP guides, experts, and moderators are not going to say this is ok. Electricity is very unforgiving of mistakes, and most pumps will say in their manuals not to use extension cords. Its not an issue exclusive to AGPs, but most inground pools have electrical service run to the equipment pad during the build. I assume manufacturers believe people will grab whatever cord they have and use it to make the connection. A cord that is not properly rated, or is not designed for outdoor use is a definitely a shock hazard and probably a fire hazard as well.

You are an adult free to make your own decisions weighing the risks inherent in your particular pool set up. TFP's representatives will err on the side of caution and not endorse the use of extension cords with pool pumps.
 
A extension cord is the same as having a much longer hose on your pump. It raises the resistance of electricity flowing through it. Devices with some amp draw will give you fits, the cord is out and unprotected against the sun and lawn mowers and pets. A extension cord is a temporary device, as in for the day.
 
The problem is where your pump cord plugs into the extension cord. That connection is not waterproof or insulated -- over time it can work loose and expose the prongs or permit water intrusion, from which the electricity can jump via pool water, rain water, dew, or even grass or a weed to a person. Just not a good idea.
 

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I've got an 18' round pool above-ground and was using a 12 gauge, 25' cord and a 110V pump. Good quality cord. I had run it under my deck with some pvc pipe serving sort of of like conduit. The cord was not getting hot. I was inspecting it at the end and beginning of each season. Everything was good or so I thought.

This summer, I was having my old deck/screen-in porch torn off and a new deck built that includes a little pool deck. I unhooked the cord in the rain in preparation for the deck builder for the demolition. When I went to where the cord plugs in to the extension cord, it was fiery hot around the prong area. The water had run down and got in to the connection area and it was a big-time fire hazard that I had been unaware of. It even had an electrical burning smell. It was plugged in to a GFI receptacle so the house may not have burned down, but I still shudder to think what could have happened or how long the prong area had been getting wet. It was the first time we had smelled that smell, so probably not for long. I asked the deck builder how much it would add to the cost for him to run a dedicated line from my service panel. $150 including material. I should have done this from the beginning. One can even run the little ditch one's self with a little advice or YouTube help to reduce the cost. It's worth it.
 
gregsfc's post is a GREAT testimonial as to why extension cords are frowned upon not only here, but in the industry, and mostly the NEC. Had a spark occured during a dry spell, it could've ignited something near-by! Sure, the GFCI might have tripped, but it may have been after the spark. Also to mention, it only takes. Here is a paper to hopefully put the dangers of electricity into perspective "The Fatal Current". Not trying to scare people, but as YippeeSkippy pointed out, the threat is real regardless of the pool size! SAFETY FIRST is always priority one.
 
There is a reason why electric code, electricians, the building department in your city and the pump manufacturer do not and will not say that it is safe to use an extension cord. It isn't about how many people do it without dying. It is about how many people die while doing it. It's like texting and driving or drinking and driving, people do it every day and don't die but people also do it every day and do die. Most rules exist for very good reasons.
 
Even ignoring the safety issues, it's really bad for a powerful device like a pump. I had my pump connected to a commercial grade extension cord and the voltage drop over 100 feet was enough that the pump's thermal protection would kick in as the motor started overheating in just a few seconds. Now you say your pump is a cheap one, so I doubt there's any thermal protection on it, and you could wind up melting the wires and shorting it out. Sure you GFCI and beaker box will probably do there job and protect you from an electrical fire that could burn down your house, but you'd still be out a pump for your pool, and would be risking a beautiful green swamp if you don't get a new pump fast enough.
If you don't want to take others advice and get a profession to do it, maybe you know someone with some electrical experience that could run some PVC conduit for you and hook up a proper electrical wire for you. With a question about the safety of an extension cord, I'm assuming you don't have electrical experience yourself. If you do try this yourself, please please please plug in a lamp or something and then throw the breaker to make sure you do throw the right one, don't want you electrocuting yourself over this.
 
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