DATES GFCI REQUIREMENTS WERE ESTABLISHED: 1971 Receptacles within 15 feet of pool walls 1971 All equipment used with storable swimming pools 1973 All outdoor receptacles 1974 Construction Sites 1975 Bathrooms, 120-volt pool lights, and fountain equipment 1978 Garages, spas, and hydromassage tubs (1) In a garage or unfinished basement, a red receptacle, with a red cover plate, supplying a fire alarm system is not required to have ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection. AFCI and GFCI Requirements . that might be connected to • Why is there a wall switch next to the furnace or indoor unit of the air conditioner in the garage? • How far above a kitchen countertop do electrical outlets have to be? Products shown as available are normally stocked but inventory levels cannot be guaranteed, For screen reader problems with this website, please call 1-800-430-3376 or text 38698 (standard carrier rates apply to texts), Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter Standards, Receptacles installed under the eaves of roofs, Multifamily dwellings with individual entrances at grade level must have at least one GFCI-protected receptacle, Outlets installed 150 volts to ground or less and up to 50 amps, Areas where heating, AC and refrigeration equipment is installed, Unfinished areas not intended for habitable rooms, Receptacles for permanent smoke detectors or burglar alarms do not require GFCI protection, Receptacles within 6 ft. of the top inside edge of the bowl of a sink, Includes boat hoist outlets not exceeding 240 volts, Receptacles within 6 ft. of the outside edge of a bathtub or shower stall, Receptacles must be installed within 25 ft. of heating, AC and refrigeration equipment, Receptacles must be readily accessible from the rooftop’s surface area, All receptacles within 6 ft. of the top inside edge of the bowl of a sink, Not required for industrial laboratory sinks where the removal of power would introduce a greater hazard, Does not include show rooms and exhibition halls, The latest standards were released in 2020, The next codes and standards release is 2023. a sewage lift pump was exempted from GFCI protection. Their circuitry monitors electrical input. Require GFCI protection on single-phase receptacles 50 amps or less, rated 150 volts to ground or less, and three-phase receptacles 100 amps or less, rated 150 volts to ground or less. 2) A single receptacle that served one appliance or a duplex receptacle serving two appliances, which was on a dedicated circuit and “located within a dedicated space for each appliance that, in normal use, is not easily moved.” Typical examples were a water softener, sprinkler control panel, washing machine, freezer, or refrigerator. When was GFCI-protection for kitchen dishwasher receptacle outlet first required? GFCIs are different than circuit breakers in that they are more sensitive. Refrigerators and any other appliances with a motor produce electromagnetic interference that often trips GFCI devices. It works by detecting a fault in the electric, and shuts power OFF before a person can get injured due to electric shock. • How far apart should kitchen counter receptacles be spaced? There are many reasons a refrigerator or freezer might be tripping the GFCI in the garage. What is the difference between what trips a GFCI (ground fault) receptacle and a circuit breaker? The receptacle must be identified for use only with the fire alarm system by an identifica- The new rules apply to the structures that have a floor located at or below grade level, are not intended for use as habitable rooms and limited to storage areas, … • What electrical hazards does a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) NOT protect against? When were GFCI receptacle outlets first required? Are GFCI Outlets Required in the Garage? Require GFCI protection for HVAC equipment, indoor service equipment and indoor service equipment requiring a dedicated space. • My GFCI reset button is hard to push and won't reset. • What does "listed and labeled" mean for an electrical component? Over the years, GFCI receptacles have been required in more locations such as garages, bathrooms, kitchens, etc. The height of the receptacle makes no difference with the GFCI requirement. << Is a landing always required at the top and bottom of stairs? A GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) is a device that protects people from electric shock in their electrical system. Require GFCI protection in both finished and unfinished basements. garage, it is required to be protected by a GFCI device even if on a dedicated circuit. Ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for personnel shall be provided as required in 210.8(A) through (E). My GFCI reset button is hard to push and won't reset. Are Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) really necessary and worth the trouble? What does "listed and labeled" mean for an electrical component? What is the switch on the wall with two pushbuttons? A dedicated 240V outlet would not need GFCI and you might be able to argue a dedicated outlet in a comms box doesn't need GFCI either (since it isn't general purpose). NEC doesn't specifically require GFCI in all non residential "shops", but does mention "Garages, service bays, and similar areas" which leaves many "shops" wide open for interpretation. 2) Garages – The purpose of GFCI’s in garage is to provide a degree of safety for persons using portable hand held tools, gardening appliances, snow blowers, etc. But there was an exception for receptacles that are not readily accessible, which is defined as above 6’-8” above floor, such as a ceiling garage door opener receptacle. NFPA 70, National Electrical Code (NEC), first required arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) in the 1999 edition. • How is it possible to provide both GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) and CAFCI (Combination Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection for kitchen and laundry circuits? Bathrooms – All receptacles in a bathroom are required to be GFCI protected. © McGarry and Madsen. Subsequently, question is, what needs to … But it wasn’t always this way. 1: See 215.9 for ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for … We are not affiliated with, and do not receive any compensation from, any of the companies or products mentioned in this blog. The objective of the NEC’s GFCI requirements is to ensure that all accessible outlets in a garage are protected. Install a metal electrical box under the sink within reach of the garbage disposal power cord. required at the garage (see Figure 1). An equipment grounding conductor is required with the feeder. GFCI protection is required for 125-volt to 250-volt receptacles supplied by single-phase branch circuits rated 150 volts or less to the ground. Visit our AFCI AND GFCI page for other related blog posts on this subject, or go to the INDEX for a complete listing of all our articles. See our blog post How far apart should electric receptacle outlets be placed in a garage? A GFCI is a circuit breaker that shuts off electric power running through it in the case of a ground fault. Yes, all 125-volt, single phase, 15- or 20-amp receptacles in a garage must be GFCI-protected, with only one esoteric exclusion that we will cover later. What's wrong? GFCI trip alarms are fairly inexpensive and you can find a number of options available between $15 to $30. Another issue may be an overloaded circuit. My spa tub stopped working. When a ground fault occurs, the GFCI quickly—in a fraction of a second—shuts off the power. The 2008 NEC wiped out these exceptions, and now only exempts  “receptacles that are not readily accessible AND are supplied by a dedicated branch circuit for electric snow-melting or deicing equipment” that is permanently installed. • Are Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) really necessary and worth the trouble? Why is there a wall switch next to the furnace or indoor unit of the air conditioner in the garage? • What happens when you press the "TEST" button on a circuit breaker in an electric panel? Here is a National Electrical Code (NEC) timeline: • 1978 NEC - Garage receptacles first required to be GFCI-protected. Running faulty or leaking tools and appliances. The ground-fault circuit interrupter shall be installed in a read- ily accessible location. Different methods of GFCI protection have been available since 1971, and each revision of the National Electrical Code (NEC), which is revised every three years, has expanded the requirements. Run 12-gauge, 2-conductor cable to the box in metal conduit. • Why do some breakers in my electric panel have a "TEST" button on them? We are in Florida and provide plenty of information about hurricanes and sinkholes, for example, but nothing on basements and ice dams. What does it mean when a wire is "overstripped" at a circuit breaker? What is the difference between GFCI and AFCI circuit breakers? How is it possible to provide both GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) and CAFCI (Combination Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection for kitchen and laundry circuits? The latest UL Standards require GFCIs to be self-testing. What's wrong? GFCI outlets in garages are required since the 1978 revision of the NEC. Unit heaters that are hard-wired (no cord and plug connection) do not require GFCI protection. The 2005 edition required combination AFCIs, which respond to both parallel and series arcs, for all electrical circuits that supply outlets in bedrooms of new homes. Garages and Accessory Buildings: GFCI protection is required for 15A and 20A 125V receptacles in garages, and in grade-level portions of accessory buildings … Does a washing machine receptacle outlet require GFCI protection? In this instance, GFCI protection is required if an outlet is within 6 feet of the water source. For example, RV Park GFCI requirements added in 1978 aligned with 210.8's 15- and 20-amp receptacle outlet GFCI protection philosophy at that time. • What does it mean when a wire is "overstripped" at a circuit breaker? What's wrong? • Why is there a GFCI breaker in the electric panel for the bathroom shower light and exhaust fan? Yes, they are. The 2008 NEC requires the installation of combination-type AFCIs in all 15 and 20 ampere residential circuits with the exception of laundries, kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and unfinished basements, though many of these require GFCI protection. Up until the 2008 edition of the NEC (National Electrical Code), there were two exceptions allowed for the GFCI requirement at garage receptacles: 1) Receptacles that were not readily accessible, such as a ceiling receptacle for a garage door opener. GFCI receptacles were required in houses starting in 1971. >>. 008(A) Dwelling units GFCI requirements. NEC 2017 created some confusion when 210.8(B) increased GFCI protection requirements beyond 15- and 20-amp receptacle outlets for other than dwelling units. State-by-State Data . On their own, circuit breakers only protect against overloads and resulting fires. Ground-fault circuit interrupters are commonly referred to as ground-fault interrupters. • What is the difference between a Combination Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (CAFCI) and an Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) circuit breaker? What electrical hazards does a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) NOT protect against? 2 Mike Holt’s Illustrated Guide to Understanding the NEC Requirements for GFCI and AFCI Protection Author’s Comments: • See the definition of “Garage” in Article 100. Check with your state or municipality to know which NEC is used in your state. • What is the difference between what trips a GFCI (ground fault) receptacle and a circuit breaker? Please call us at: 1-800-HOME-DEPOT (1-800-466-3337), Please enter in your email address in the following format: you@domain.com. Also, construction methods and materials vary in different parts of the country and it is possible that important issues related to your area may not be covered here. Here’s links to a collection of our other blog posts about AFCI and GFCI RECEPTACLES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS: • Does a septic pump or sump pump require a GFCI-receptacle? The National Electric Code (NEC) and all local building codes require GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) protection for many outlet receptacles throughout the house and in outdoor locations. What's wrong? Every 15 and 20 amp 125-volt receptacle that is found in the garage needs to be equipped with proper GFCI protection. If you can get a vehicle in there, many say it definitely needs GFCI protection, but "similar areas" can cover a lot of places IMO. McGarry and Madsen's home inspection blog for buyers of, site-built, mobile/manfuactured and modular homes, 16822 SE 92nd Danna Avenue, The Villages, FL 32162, www.thevillagesbestinspector.com • Comments or questions to  mcgarryandmadsen@mac.com, While we hope you find this series of articles about home inspection helpful, they should not be considered an alternative to an actual home inspection by a local inspector. Also Know, where are arc fault breakers not required? Ground-fault circuit interrupters, GFCIs or GFIs, are safety devices built into outlets that protect against electrical shock. Why is there a GFCI breaker in the electric panel for the bathroom shower light and exhaust fan? What is a Dual Function Circuit Interrupter (DFCI)? Local store prices may vary from those displayed. The National Electrical Code® requires GFCI protection for 125-volt to 250-volt receptacles supplied by single-phase branch circuits rated 150 volts or less to the ground in: GFCI protection is required for all 125-250-volt receptacles rated 50 amps or less, not exceeding 150 volts to ground, supplied by a single-phase branch circuit in: The National Electric Code® has expanded GFCI requirements in every code change since 1971, including the latest for 2020. What's wrong? GFCI protection is most commonly required in locations where electricity is likely to come into contact with water. Originally they were only required at the exterior of the house and by swimming pool equipment. • What is the code requirement for GFCI protection for receptacles near a wet bar sink? What happens when you press the "TEST" button on a circuit breaker in an electric panel? © 2000-2020 Home Depot Product Authority, LLC. How far above a kitchen countertop do electrical outlets have to be? • How do I identify a combination AFCI (CAFCI) circuit breaker? What's wrong? However, property owners must also apply GFCI protection to door openers despite the fact that they are not easily accessible. • My spa tub stopped working. What is the code requirement for GFCI protection for receptacles near a wet bar sink? No wiggle room there. GFCI protection is not required in the garage for a single receptacle or a duplex receptacle for two appliances , which are not easily moved and located within dedicated space . What is the difference between "grounded" and "grounding" electrical conductors? Since 2008, GFCI outlets have been required for “all 125-volt, single-phase, 15 and 20-amp outlets” in the garage. (1) In a garage or unfinished basement, a red receptacle, with a red cover plate, supplying a fire alarm system is not required to have ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection. • What is a Dual Function Circuit Interrupter (DFCI)? Having both GFCI and circuit breakers helps safeguard against electrical shock and fires. What is the difference between the electric service to a mobile home and a site built home? What is the maximum length for a washing machine drain hose? As for the comms box though, why the reluctance? The requirement for GFCI protection on kitchen dishwasher branch circuits was deleted. Informational Note No. When did arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) breakers first become required? Arc-fault circuit interrupters protect against fires caused by arcing faults that come from faulty or damaged wiring. When a feeder is supplying the garage, a grounding electrode is required at the garage. 008(A) Dwelling units GFCI requirements. Most unit heaters are 240-volt, and do not require GFCI protection. For feeders from the house to the garage, two 8-foot ground rods must be driven at least 6 ft apart outside the garage. Garage GFCI receptacles / accessory building GFCI Exceptions for the garage GFCI receptacles and GFCI’s in accessory buildings have been removed by the 2008 NEC (National Electrical Code). A common problem with a second fridge in the garage is that it often trips your GFCI or ground fault circuit interrupter. All Rights Reserved. GFCIs protect against electrical shocks from ground faults. Where are GFCI receptacle outlets required? • What is the difference between the electric service to a mobile home and a site built home? Use of this site is subject to certain Terms Of Use. • A receptacle outlet is required in a dwelling unit attached garage [210.52(G)], but a receptacle outlet isn’t required in • Does a washing machine receptacle outlet require GFCI protection? • What is the difference between GFCI and AFCI circuit breakers? Up until the 2008 edition of the NEC (National Electrical Code), there were two exceptions allowed for the GFCI requirement at garage receptacles: Need Help? GFCI receptacles are required in bathrooms, garages, crawl spaces, basements, laundry rooms and areas where a water source is present. GFCI protection is required for all 15A and 20A, 125V receptacles in garages and in grade-level portions of unfinished or finished accessory buildings used for storage or work areas of a dwelling unit. The most common one is the appliance is older and may have damage. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •. Define distance between a water source and receptacles that require GFCI protection as “the shortest path the cord of an appliance connected to the receptacle would follow without piercing a floor, wall, ceiling, or fixed barrier, or passing through a door, doorway, or window.”. Solve the Problem of a Tripping GFCI Refer or Freezer Outlet. • Where are GFCI receptacle outlets required? In fact, both the NEC (National Electric Code) and the IRC (International Residential Code) require this. More about Garage Electrical Wiring for Outlets and Lighting How to Install Garage Electrical Wiring How I can tell if a receptacle outlet is tamper resistant? • My bathroom electric receptacle/outlet is dead and there are no tripped breakers in the electric panel. • When did arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) breakers first become required? How do I identify a combination AFCI (CAFCI) circuit breaker? But it wasn’t always this way. Does a septic pump or sump pump require a GFCI-receptacle? If you’re forced to use a GFCI outlet for the freezer or fridge in your garage, we recommend purchasing a GFCI trip alarm. This requirement began in 2015. • What is the difference between "grounded" and "grounding" electrical conductors? Expand outdoor protection from receptacle outlets to all outlets. Why do some breakers in my electric panel have a "TEST" button on them? There is no difference between GFCI and GFI protection. These guidelines are adopted as legislation by state. Yes, all 125-volt, single phase, 15- or 20-amp receptacles in a garage must be GFCI-protected, with only one esoteric exclusion that we will cover later. Refrigerators and Freezers just don’t get along well with GFI Outlets, and the fact is they are not required to be protected by GFCI if they are on a circuit all by themselves and the circuit is not shared with other outlets in the garage or similar area. How far apart should kitchen counter receptacles be spaced? • When was GFCI-protection for kitchen dishwasher receptacle outlet first required? My bathroom electric receptacle/outlet is dead and there are no tripped breakers in the electric panel. GFCI is required for garage for general purpose outlets. for spacing requirements. Expand GFCI requirements to crawl spaces at or below grade level and unfinished areas of basements. Local code also may require a GFCI outlet for plugging in a garbage disposal. GFCI outlets protect all outlets on the same circuit, as well as connected tools and appliances. • When were GFCI receptacle outlets first required? GFCI receptacles are required in bathrooms, garages, crawl spaces, basements, laundry rooms … • What is the switch on the wall with two pushbuttons? What is the difference between a Combination Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (CAFCI) and an Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) circuit breaker? GFCIs, however, protect against electrical currents that are too low to trip breakers but are more than enough to cause injury. • How I can tell if a receptacle outlet is tamper resistant? GFCI protection is required for 125-volt to 250-volt receptacles supplied by single-phase branch circuits rated 150 volts or less to the ground.