Belly Steel Electrical Bonding is one of the most confusing aspects to most homeowners of the electrical installation of a swimming pool/spa. Before the gunite (dry cement) is shot to form the distinct shape of the pool/spa, a Belly Steel Electrical Bonding has to be performed and be inspected by the local city inspector. The bonding consists of a BARE #8 size solid copper wire (no aluminum allowed anywhere on a pool installation), and grounded to the back of each light niche and at no less than 4 evenly spaced points on the steel around the pool and a 5th one required if there is a spa. The 4-5 ground clamps must be direct burial rated and the inspector can easily distinguish between a regular ground clamp and a direct burial because “DB” is stamped into the clamp from the manufacturer. Plus, the ground clamp is brass and the screws are also brass. This entire Belly Steel Electrical Bonding must be unbroken, circle the entire pool/spa, then continue to the equipment location regardless of distance so it will attach to the outside of each pump motor and control equipment. This bonding provides a fault current protection for anyone swimming in the pool and has been part of the National Electrical Code since the 1950’s.
