I was looking at the NEC 2005 book in the public library.
Didn't take notes but it seems to say that relatively small pumps (under 20 amps/250 volts) require a GFCI. (BIG pumps don't as I read things.)
The only section that seemed to address the issue was on "Fountains and Spas" or some such.
This isn't a burning issue. Mainly just curious. (But I DO have a pump that's almost 200' below the ground. The original installation was 30 years ago although the pump was pulled and replaced a week ago.)
The code is interested in the possibility of electric shock, not the size of the motor. When you are immersing yourself in water, or in contact with water as with spas, swimming pools and also fountains there is a much greater chance of electrocution, so the code has special requirements for bonding metal near the water and for GFCI protection for motors, lights, heaters and other equipment that could cause a shock hazard.
The same concern for electricity around water also requires GFCI outlet protection in bathrooms and used to require GFCI outlet protection near kitchen sinks (now for the whole kitchen).
Most pumps, including your 200 foot deep submersible are not the same kind of shock hazard and GFCI protection is not required.
bud--
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