Master Electrician Exam (NEC)Special Occupancies, Equipment, and ConditionsHard
A master electrician is installing a new fountain in a public park. The fountain basin contains electrical equipment. According to NEC, what is the minimum required distance from the edge of the fountain to a general-purpose 125-volt, 15- or 20-ampere receptacle that is not for the fountain's exclusive use?
- A10 feet
- B5 feet
- C6 feet
- D3 feet
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. 10 feet
NEC Section 680.22(A)(1) specifies that general-purpose 125-volt, 15- or 20-ampere receptacles not for the exclusive use of the fountain shall not be located within 10 feet of the fountain's edge. This separation prevents accidental contact with water while using other appliances.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. 5 feet is insufficient; the NEC requires a greater distance for general-purpose receptacles.
- C. 6 feet is a common separation distance for some other electrical installations near water, but not for general-purpose receptacles near fountains.
- D. 3 feet is too close and does not meet the NEC requirement for separation from fountains.
Fountain Receptacle Clearance
The minimum horizontal distance required by the NEC between the edge of a fountain and a general-purpose 125-volt, 15- or 20-ampere receptacle not exclusively for the fountain.
- Prevents electrical hazards near water.
- Applies to general-purpose receptacles.
- NEC Article 680 covers fountains.
Memory trick: Ten feet from the fountain's splash, keep other outlets safe, no clash!