Running a Sub-panel

corvette2007

19 years ago

I want to install a sub-panel in my backyard to supply

power to a pool, spa, and outdoor lighting.

I did some research and it sounds like 75 amps is the most I would draw, therefore, I was going to run #4 wires to supply the 220 volt circuit.

I had some questions that I hope can be answered:

1) Can I run this wire in pvc, and bury it in the ground?

2) At the sub-panel, what are the location requirements

(i.e., panel height above ground, direct attachment to

stuccoed wall)?

3) A grounding rod?

4) Since the pool and spa will run on 220, can the two #4

wires feed those, and can I pull the neutral and ground wires as a smaller gauge?

I live in San Diego, and I believe we follow the California Building Code spec, which follows the NEC.

Thanks for any help...

Mike

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Comments (4)

cobraguy
19 years ago
I've been going through this myself in Arizona. I can only offer a couple of things for you. Here, you can run your wire in pvc, but it must be buried a minimum of 18". If you use metal, it only needs to be buried 6". I'm sure your local authority has it's own guidelines that should be consulted.

Are you using an Aqua Logic system? They won't pass your inspection with the sub panel attached to a fence wall. Not here in Phoenix anyway. It must be supported by it's own stands. The electricians here all drive metal rods into the ground and attach the panels to that.
badabingbong
19 years ago
Neutral must be same size as feeders (#4). The ground may be one size smaller, but check local codes.
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corvette2007
Original Author
19 years ago
Thanks for the advice! Sorry it took so long to get back...we've had a little bit of a fire problem here in San Diego!

Yes, I think my next move should be to contact the local building department.

I did some reading on Aqua Logic, and it looks like a nice system. I'm running the electical lines right now, then the outdoor gas lines.

I'm doing a backyard remodel, so I want to get everything installed ahead of time. I'm also considering being my own owner/builder for the pool and spa. Here are a couple of good websites for anyone considering this task:

http://www.howibuiltmyownpool.com/
http://www.poolforum.com/

Thanks again,
Mike
cobraguy
19 years ago
The Aqua Logic system is the best I've ever seen for pool controls. I use it to control my pool, spa, patio misters, and landscape lighting. It also has a chlorinator, which means you'll have a salt water pool...which is easier on the skin. Whatever you do, consult Aqua Logic (Goldline Controls) to make sure you get the proper sized system for your needs. It's spendy to upgrade later.

Build your own pool is great if you have the time to spend lining up subs. But be forewarned...if one is late, you need to reschedule all of them. They may not be available when you need them if that happens. Also, warranty items can be a real pain. Let's say you get a crack in your cool deck. The concrete guy comes and fixes the crack, but he won't fix the cool deck. The cool deck guy fixes his part, but he won't warranty it because it wasn't his fault the concrete cracked and charges you for his work. Which he should! If you hire a pool builder, all these problems go away. They take care of everything and deal with the subs.