Ask Experts Questions for FREE Help !
Ask
    561packrat's Avatar
    561packrat Posts: 80, Reputation: 1
    Junior Member
    		  
    #1

    Mar 28, 2009, 05:30 PM
    Well pump: correct breaker and proper grounding?
    Hi,
    I am installing a pump on an existing well. The motor on the pump is 230 volt/7.2 amp. The placard reads ,"switchless motor, no switch, no governor,Thermally protected KA".
    The following are questions I have regarding the installation:
    1) What breaker would be correct, since it is protecting a motor?
    2) Is 10/3 sheathed cable in pvc conduit adequate for an approximate 60/ft. run, panel to motor?
    3) What needs to be done to ensure safe and compliant grounding? The motor frame has a small lug attached to it and a grounding-rod type clamp attached to the pressure- gauge nipple. This unit was rebuilt and put into storage many years ago, so I am unsure if these were put on by a knowledgeable person. The panel is at the service entrance and has a main disconnect, ground connected to neutral.
    4) The well casing is 2" galvanized steel. Can I use PVC fittings ,pump to well, or will this affect the grounding?
    As for my skill and knowledge, I have a background in general contracting and I know my limitations, so I very carefully follow the rules. I feel comfortable doing this project, but if it starts to feel like I'm in over my head, I will consult a real electrician.
    Thanks, Ken
    tkrussell's Avatar
    tkrussell Posts: 9,659, Reputation: 725
    Uber Member
    		  
    #2

    Mar 29, 2009, 05:33 AM
    What's kind of cable that is "sheathed" are you planning on using?

    If your considering using NM-B, AKA Romex, the answer is Romex is not allowed in buried conduit, or anywhere outdoor a building, as this is considered as a wet location.

    Any wire used in conduit must be rated for wet location, or if buried without conduit, rated for direct burial.


    Pulling a "sheathed" cable, such as UF cable, through conduit is difficult, and generally needs a conduit a bit larger than apparent.

    Most well pumps use a direct buried twisted cable, such as seen here:
    Submersible water well pump wire for use with submersible water well pumps.

    And is buried directly in ground,although conduit can be used for extra protection. PVC conduit is fine.

    Grounding is done by connecting the green wire to the lug on the exterior of the pump motor, and a lug on the well casing. Connect the green wire back at the panel to the proper grounding bar.

    A minimum 15 amp breaker is fine, along with the #10 wire.
Not your question? Ask your question View similar questions
 

Question Tools Search this Question
Search this Question:

Advanced Search

Add your answer here.


Check out some similar questions!

Grounding rods sticking out - correct installation? [ 18 Answers ]

Hi - I just had my old 100 amp panel replaced with a 200 amp panel, and as part of the process two grounding rods were driven, and a new mast was installed. I'm hoping it was done correctly, but some of the choices made by the electrician just don't look right to me. I have not had the work...

Proper Grounding [ 5 Answers ]

I am installing a new electric Service to my home. I am upgrading to a 200 amp service and relocating the meter box. I plan on using #3/0 wiring from the meter box to the Load Center, then using #2/0 from the ground rod to the meter box and the Load Center. I have 2 questions. First, Do I need...

Proper grounding for 400A service and adjoining panel [ 1 Answers ]

I am installing a 400A service panel on the outside wall of a garage. For the time being it will only be supplying power to a 125A panel located on the inside wall of that garage. The 125A panel will be mounted inside the wall directly behind the 400A service, and the two will be connected by...

New main breaker load center - grounding [ 1 Answers ]

I currently have a fuse box that I want to upgrade to a main breaker load center. My house is in the country so I have a pole with the meter and a service disconnect. From the service disconnect it braches to my barn, well pump, and the house. (Following the main into the house) Inside on...

Question on proper use of GFIC breaker [ 1 Answers ]

I had some outdoor receptacles recently installed and would like to know if it is proper to put a GFIC breaker in the panel for this circuit and will it protect the receptacles from shorting instead of putting a GFIC receptacle in the circuit?

View more questions Search