Sump Pump Circuit Wiring

Installing Electrical Circuit Wiring for a Sump Pump and providing the necessary GFCI protection and means of disconnect.

Wire Size for a Sump Pump Circuit
Electrical Question #1: I plan to put a separate circuit in for the sump pump in my septic system.

• I have a Rigid 1/2 horse pump (10.5 amp motor) and will be using a 20 amp breaker.
• The wire I have on hand is 14 gauge.
• Is this an adequate wire, or do I need to get a larger gauge?

This electrical wiring question came from Duane, a Homeowner from Ravenna, Ohio.

Electrical Question #2: Is a sump pump in a basement required to be on a GFCI Outlet?

• Should a sump pump in a basement be protected by a GFCI outlet?

This electrical wiring question came from Joseph in Baltimore, Maryland.

Dave’s Reply:
Thank you for your electrical questions.

Electrical Wiring for a Sump Pump Circuit

• The wire size that should be used for the 20 amp septic sump pump circuit should be #12 gauge.
• The sump pump should be protected by either a GFCI outlet or a GFCI circuit breaker.
• A means of disconnect for the sump pump must be located within sight and readily accessible.
• If a receptacle outlet will be installed then a weather proof cover must be installed to offer protection from the weather even while the sump pump is plugged in.

More about Sump Pump and GFI Wiring

GFCI Wiring

GFI Outlet Wiring

This list of articles will help you learn about the features and benefits provided by GFI and GFCI Receptacles and how they are wired.

• Circuit Wiring
• Electrical Panel Circuit Listing
• Electrical Wire for the Home
• Electrical circuit

Electric Circuit Listing
The size of the home electrical service panel is designed by calculating the square footage of the home and factoring in the code requirements for the electrical circuits that are required.

Circuit breaker

Electrical Wiring Protection using Circuit Breakers

• A guide to home electrical circuit breakers and how they work to protect your electrical wiring.
• When properly installed, your home electrical wiring is protected by a circuit protection device.

For more information about Circuit Wiring
Circuit Wiring

Electrical Circuit Wiring
This article looks at common 120 volt and 240 volt house wiring circuits and the circuit breakers that are installed identifying the types and amperage sizes used in most homes.

Electrical Mistakes and How to Avoid Them How to identify and repair electrical mistakes that lead to electrical problems, Prevent electrical code violations and failed home inspections. Helping You Wire it Right Learn more with my Home Electrical Wiring Course: Basic Home Electrical Wiring by Example

» You Can Avoid Costly Mistakes! « Here's How to Do It: Wire It Right with the help of my Illustrated Wiring Book Great for any Home Wiring Project. Complete Guide to Home Electrical Wiring Perfect for Homeowners, Students, Handyman, Handy Women, and Electricians Includes: Wiring GFCI Outlets Wiring Home Electric Circuits 120 Volt and 240 Volt Outlet Circuits Wiring Light Switches Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Electric Range Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Dryer Cord and Dryer Outlet How to Troubleshoot and Repair Electrical Wiring Wiring Methods for Upgrading Electrical Wiring NEC Codes for Home Electrical Wiring ....and much more.

Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.

More articles about Sump Pump Circuit and Home Electrical Wiring:
« Previous	Next »
Avoid Mistakes When Wiring New Lights	Electrical Wiring for a Bath Light Fan Combo

Stay Connected

Electrical News Updates