Are GFCI outlets required by code?
GFCI protection is required on dwelling unit outdoor outlets* supplied by single-phase branch circuits rated 150-volts or less to ground, and 50-amperes or less. NEC 210.8(F) is only applicable to readily accessible outdoor equipment outlets.
What happens if you don't have GFCI?
Without the GFCI outlet, if something were to happen and an appliance was plugged in and fell into water, the electricity would travel through the water and could cause a deadly shock.
When did GFCI outlets become required?
GFCI receptacles were required in houses starting in 1971. Originally they were only required at the exterior of the house and by swimming pool equipment. Over the years, GFCI receptacles have been required in more locations such as garages, bathrooms, kitchens, etc.
Do all outlets in house need to be GFCI?
Not all your kitchen outlets need to be the GFCIs, but they are required to be if they're within six feet of a kitchen sink or if they serve a countertop. Near laundry room sinks. Any receptacles within 6 feet of a sink or washing machine should be GFCIs. Near your water heater.
Do all outlets in a bathroom need to be GFCI?
GFCI receptacles are required in bathrooms, garages, crawl spaces, basements, laundry rooms and areas where a water source is present.
Why doesn't my bathroom have a GFCI outlet?
For houses built before 1975, there was no requirement for GFCIs to be installed in residential bathrooms. If you own an older home, you'll have to upgrade the receptacles if the electrical system in your home is modified.
Which location is not required to be GFCI protected?
Receptacles that are not accessible from grade level and that only facilitate quick disconnecting and reconnecting of electrical equipment shall not be required to be provided with GFCI protection.
Do kitchen lights need to be GFCI?
While you're having your dedicated circuits rewired or installed, be sure to have your ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection devices installed too. According to the NEC Section 210.8, GFCI devices must be installed in kitchens, as well as bathrooms, wet bar sinks, outdoor areas, crawl spaces, and garages.
When did GFCI outlets become code in bathroom?
1975Since 1975, GFCI outlets (or ground fault circuit interrupters) have been required throughout home bathrooms in the United States.
Is it better to use a GFCI outlet or breaker?
GFCI breakers offer complete protection of every outlet in a circuit, while GFCI receptacles protect ordinary receptacles or outlets. They can be single-location or multi-location GFCI receptacles, which manage to protect other downstream outlets. Expect to save more on initial costs when you opt for a GFCI receptacle.
Does a fridge need a GFCI?
Here is the breakdown governing refrigerators and GFCI protection (according to the NEC 2011 Handbook): All commercial buildings/kitchens are required to have GFCI for refrigerators. See NEC 210.8(B)(2). In a Dwelling Unit (house or apartment) refrigerators located inside the kitchen do NOT have to have a GFCI.
What's the difference between a GFI and a GFCI?
Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) and ground fault interrupters (GFI) are the exact same device under slightly different names. Though GFCI is more commonly used than GFI, the terms are interchangeable.
What is the difference between a GFCI and a GFI?
Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) and ground fault interrupters (GFI) are the exact same device under slightly different names. Though GFCI is more commonly used than GFI, the terms are interchangeable.
What year were GFCI outlets required in a garage?
Are GFCI Outlets Required for Garages? According to the NEC code, GFCI-protected outlets are required for garages. This took effect back in 2008 for all 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-amp outlets, according to the NEC. In addition, it is also required according to the IRC, or the International Residential Code.
Does every outlet in a garage need to be GFCI?
Why You Need GFCI Garage Outlets. The National Electricity Code says that GFCI-protected outlets are required for garages. Your local building codes will also state that outlets must be GFCI. This change to the code took effect back in 2008 for all 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-amp outlets.
When did GFCI become code in Texas?
GFCI devices were first required under building codes in 1971 for areas around pools and outdoor locations. In 1975, this was expanded to bathrooms. Garages were added in 1978. Between 1987 and 1993, the requirement was expanded to most of what we know today.