Overview

Electrical installations in corrosive environments face significant challenges due to the risk of equipment degradation and safety hazards. The 2023 NEC revised Section 680.14 to address these issues by mandating the use of corrosion-resistant materials and enclosures. Section 680.14(A) outlines approved wiring methods, including rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal conduit, rigid polyvinyl chloride conduit, reinforced thermosetting resin conduit, and liquid-tight flexible nonmetallic conduit, while excluding aluminum conduit and tubing. Section 680.14(B) requires that equipment be suitable for corrosive environments or installed in corrosion-resistant enclosures. These updates enhance the safety and effectiveness of electrical systems in challenging corrosive conditions.

Applying the 2023 Code

Corrosive environments refer to areas or enclosures with inadequate ventilation where electrical equipment is located and where pool sanitation chemicals are stored, handled, or dispensed. Electrical wiring is often necessary in these locations to support essential equipment such as lighting, pumps, and control systems, which are critical for maintaining pool hygiene and related functions. However, these environments present significant challenges due to the high risk of corrosion, which can lead to equipment degradation, safety hazards, and increased maintenance costs. Therefore, special provisions must be implemented to guarantee that wiring can be safely installed and operated in such environments.

Previous NEC versions addressed wiring requirements for corrosive environments in Section 680.14. It required that wiring methods be listed and identified for use in such areas. Accepted methods included rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal conduit, rigid polyvinyl chloride conduit, and reinforced thermosetting resin conduit due to their corrosion resistance. The 2023 NEC revised this section, dividing it into two parts: 680.14(A), which specifies approved wiring methods, and 680.14(B), which details requirements for other equipment. The updated Section 680.14(A) now includes rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal conduit, rigid polyvinyl chloride conduit, reinforced thermosetting resin conduit, and liquid-tight flexible nonmetallic conduit, while aluminum conduit and tubing are excluded. Section 680.14(B) requires that equipment be suitable for corrosive environments or installed in corrosion-resistant enclosures. Equipment listed for pool and spa use is considered acceptable even if not specifically listed for corrosive environments.

What’s New for the 2023 NEC?

The table below presents a comparison between the 2020 NEC and the 2023 NEC regarding Section 680.14.