EARTHING (BONDING) GUIDE LINES.

We're often asked if the HIDE Skimmer Lid needs to be bonded. So let's break it down for you.

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An Earthing Discussion for HIDE Customers.

 

What is earthing?

Earthing provides a path (a protective conductor) for a fault current to flow to earth.


What is Equipotential bonding?

Equipotential bonding is connecting exposed conductive parts to the same electrical energy, such as that, under fault conditions, the difference in potential between simultaneously accessible exposed and extraneous conductive parts will not electrically shock. 

Who determines the level of work?

All Electrical work, including swimming pool construction and refurbishments in Australia require compliance with legislated electrical work regulations.EL1.

One essential safety procedure is earthing, which protects against varying levels of electrical potential that may exist in the groundmass or the pool environment's fixtures and fittings.

The Australian electrical code covers various project specifications, as each swimming pool project differs in layout, design, construction, and equipment. To address these variations, Skimmer Lids Pty Ltd have developed the HIDE® range of Skimmer Lid options to meet the requirements of all swimming pool projects. This includes child resistance opening, ventilation, and provision for electrical compliance.

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EARTHING IS STRAIGHTFORWARD

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Earthing Wire

This standard earthing wire is used throughout your home and pool builds across Australia.

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Attach Earthing Wire

Simply attach the earthing wire to the underside of the HIDE Edge Protector. The HIDE Lid does not need to be earthed as it is removable and is separated from the base by polymer corner lifters.

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Getting the job done right 

HIDE Skimmer Lids Pty Ltd recommends earthing any stainless steel item, including powder-coated skimmer lids, within 1.25m of the pool edge. We are pleased to arrange powder coating for our stainless steel products at an extra cost.

Advice:

  1. Plan ahead.

  2. Engage with your Electrical Contractor early in the design and planning process.

  3. Provide your Electrical Contractor with site plans and equipment specifications.

  4. Whenever possible, choose alternative designs or products that are easily accessible from the pool edge.

HIDE offers all the alternatives mentioned above to accommodate various requirements and situations related to bonding. It's important to note that not all HIDE Skimmer Lids require earthing. You can select the model that aligns with your project's specific construction specifications or electrical requirements.

The Bottom Line:

Only the licensed Electrical Contractor on your project can specify the earthing requirements. Plan & Install the correct HIDE lid based on this advise.

Please remember that the information provided here is a general guideline based on the intent of the Wiring Rules. State regulators may have specific variations or requirements, so it is strongly advised to consult a Licensed Electrical Contractor (Master Electrician) to ensure the best possible outcome for your project.

For any further discussion please make contact with our of office or product representatives.
Further information is on our website https://info.skimmerlids.com.au/earthing-guidelines-aus

IF YOU CAN'T RUN AN EARTHING WIRE, HIDE COMBINATION KITS ARE YOUR BEST OPTION.

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HIDE Combination Kits:

Combination Kit (Stainless Steel Lid + Polymer Edge Protector)

The Best of Both Worlds: Combine the unrivalled strength of a stainless steel lid with the safety of a 100% non-conductive polymer edge protector that resists deterioration over time. This innovative design ensures durable, risk-free insulation and superior performance.

  • 100% Compliant: The polymer edge protector insulates the removable stainless steel lid, ensuring full compliance with safety standards.
  • Three Colours: Ash, Bone, and Charcoal, which will seamlessly blend with your pool coping.
  • Depth Options: 20mm and 30mm in all three colours. 40mm depth in Ash
  • Concrete: 40mm concrete infill kits available in Ash.

HIDE Warranty and Quality Assurance

Enjoy peace of mind with a 20-year warranty on stainless steel and a 5-year UV-colour-rated warranty on polymer components. HIDE provides reliable, non-conductive solutions built to last.

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HIDE Full Polymer Kits:

Polymer Edge Protector and Polymer Lid

Experience simplicity and safety with this 100% polymer kit, which requires no earthing and is compliant with Australian/New Zealand pool safety standards.

  • 100% Non-Conductive: Polymer is inherently non-conductive, maintaining its properties without breaking down over time.
  • Three Colours: Ash, Bone, and Charcoal, which will seamlessly blend with your pool coping.
  • Two Depth Options: Choose 20mm or 30mm depths to suit your inlay thickness.
  • Two Sizes Available: 342mm square skimmer lid and 206mm square access cover.

HIDE Warranty and Quality Assurance

Polymer components are UV colour-rated for 5 years, ensuring lasting performance and aesthetic appeal.

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HIDE Stainless Steel Kits

HIDE Full Stainless Steel Kits – the leading inlay skimmer lid for over 10 years – come with a pre-drilled hole, allowing a "Licensed Electrician" to easily install an earthing wire and lug to the HIDE Frame. This procedure is compliant with Australian safety standards, ensuring reliable installation and safe operation.
[Care and maintenance + Warranty]

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Be safe and be compliant for the life of your pool

  1. HIDE offers a full range of products that are compliant with Australian/New Zealand safety regulations, including 100% non-conductive polymer, which will remain compliant for the life of your pool.
  2. If you choose to powder coat your stainless steel skimmer lid, you should continue to follow pool safety regulations and earth (bond) the product to gain the required certification certificates from a licensed electrician.
  3. Powder-coating may offer attractive aesthetic benefits for your client in some situations. HIDE will have any of its stainless steel kits powder-coated to your preferred colour; however, to comply with safety standards, HIDE does not offer powder-coated treatments as a non-conductive solution. 
  4. HIDE products were voted "Best new pool building product" at the New Orleans International Pool & Spa Expo 2019 and have been the industry leader in external coverings since 2014.
  5. Only HIDE offers a 20-year warranty on their quality 316 Stainless Steel products.

Contact details

For over 10 years, Skimmer Lids has been proud to serve the industry, consistently developing innovative products that meet Australian and New Zealand safety standards. We celebrate this milestone by continuing to deliver excellence and support. If you have any questions or need assistance, our dedicated team is here to help.

Head Office Admin Brisbane (Yatala) 
Phone: (07) 3807 2551

Email: admin@skimmerlids.com.au

Website: www.skimmerlids.com.au

 

QLD/NZ

Contact Head Office:
(07 3807 2551)

admin@skimmerlids.com.au

 

NSW

Sarah-Jane Winston: Sales Manager
(0447 981 121)

sarahjane@skimmerlids.com.au

VIC/SA

Brett Dodge: Sales Manager
(0499 260 254)

brett.dodge@skimmerlids.com.au

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