We would like to inform you that radiant heating cannot be installed on pool decks. Pursuant to NEC 680.27 (C) Deck Area Heating code, it states that radiant heating cables are not permitted on pool decks.
Image source : https://up.codes/s/deck-area-heating
Why Radiant Heating is Not Allowed on Pool Decks?
The National Electrical Code (NEC) is a set of standards and regulations that govern electrical installations in the United States. When it comes to pool decks, NEC 680.27(C) addresses the use of radiant heating systems, specifically radiant heating cables embedded in or below the deck. This code prohibits the use of radiant heating cables in or below the pool deck for several safety reasons:
- Electrical Hazard: Radiant heating systems often use electrical cables or elements to generate heat. When these cables are installed in or below a pool deck, they can pose a significant electrical hazard. If there are any faults or damage to the cables, they can become electrified, creating a dangerous situation for anyone in contact with the deck or the surrounding area, especially in a wet environment like a pool deck.
- Corrosion and Deterioration: Pool decks are exposed to moisture, chlorine, and other chemicals, which can accelerate the corrosion and deterioration of electrical components. This can lead to a higher risk of electrical failures, shorts, and damage to the heating system.
- Safety Concerns: The presence of electrical heating cables in or below a pool deck may lead to safety concerns related to potential shock hazards, especially when people are walking barefoot on the deck or when the deck is wet. Ensuring the safety of individuals around the pool is a primary concern in building codes and standards.
- Code Compliance: The NEC aims to establish a minimum set of safety standards for electrical installations. Prohibiting radiant heating cables in or below the pool deck is one way to reduce the risk of electrical hazards in this specific application, aligning with the code’s primary goal of ensuring safety.
