680.21 Pool motors
What changed in 680.21
GFCI protection for pool pump motors now depends on the circuit: 150 volts or less to ground and 60 amps or less, single- or three-phase. Replacement motors are covered too.
Point by point
- GFCI now depends on the branch circuit: 150 volts or less to ground and 60 amps or less, single-phase or three-phase.
The full lesson is in the Pro Version
Get the whole breakdown
- 4 more points on exactly what changed
- The 2017 rule next to the 2020 rule, side by side
- Why it changed
- What to do and check on the job
One membership unlocks every NEC® change lesson for 2020, 2023 and 2026, plus every video, quiz, flashcard and the Testing Center.
Checking your membership…
This section across NEC® editions
2020 NEC®RevisedYou're here
GFCI protection for pool pump motors now depends on the circuit: 150 volts or less to ground and 60 amps or less, single- or three-phase. Replacement motors are covered too.
2023 NEC®Revised
When a pool pump motor is repaired or replaced, it must get GFCI or special purpose GFCI protection where 680.21(C) calls for it, even if none was needed originally.
Open the 2023 page →2026 NEC®Revised
Pool motors on adjustable speed drives and reconditioned or repaired motors are now addressed, and ground-fault protection for drive-fed motors goes ahead of the drive.
Open the 2026 page →More 2020 changes in Article 680
This is a plain-English summary, not the NEC®'s exact wording. Always check the full section in the NEC® edition your area has adopted, plus any local amendments.
NEC® and National Electrical Code® are registered trademarks of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Electrical Exam Coach is not affiliated with or endorsed by NFPA.
Find it faster on test day