What is the minimum required distance between suction outlets?

• A. 2 Feet
• B. 3 Feet
• C. 4 Feet
• D. 5 Feet

Answer: (B)

The question tests safety spacing for suction outlets in pools/spas. Keeping outlets at least a short distance apart helps prevent entrapment by ensuring the suction forces from each outlet don’t create a single dangerous area between them. The minimum recommended distance is three feet, which provides enough separation for multiple outlets to operate without concentrating suction in the space between them.

If outlets were much closer, a swimmer could be drawn toward the gap between them, increasing entrapment risk. A three-foot spacing aligns with common safety guidelines and code practices for protecting swimmers. Distances like two feet are too close for safe separation, while larger gaps aren’t typically required by code and aren’t needed to achieve the same safety effect.