What Appliances Require GFCI?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

, , , ,

GFCI protection is needed for any outlet up to 30 amps and 125-volt that are located within 6 feet of the jet tubs.

Jet tubes, hot tubs, hydro-massage tubs, Jacuzzi tubs, and whirlpools

are required by the NEC to have proper GFCI protection. The requirement was introduced with the 1987 revision of the NEC.

Do kitchen appliances need GFCI?

Per 210.8(A)(6), GFCI protection is required for all 15A and 20A, 125V receptacles that serve kitchen countertop surfaces in a dwelling unit (Fig. 1 on page 54).

GFCI protection is not required for receptacles serving appliances

like dishwashers, or convenience receptacles that do not supply countertop surfaces.

What appliances require GFCI protection?


Vending machines, cord-and-plug-connected spray washers, drinking fountains, auto vacuum and tire inflation machines

installed for the public require GFCI protection.

Does a refrigerator require a GFCI?

Should a refrigerator be plugged into a GFCI outlet?

A refrigerator shouldn’t be plugged into a GFCI outlet

. GFCI outlets are used in areas of the home with water or moisture. These include bathrooms, basements, and kitchens.

Where are GFCI outlets required?

The NEC mandates GFCI protection in many areas of the home: bathrooms, garages, outdoor receptacles, crawl spaces, basements, kitchens and

anything within six feet of a sink or water source

. While that may seem like a lot, the entirety of a home is not covered.

Is there a difference between GFI and 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.

How many outlets can one GFCI protect?


There’s no limit

. A standard GFCI will protect up to 20 amps, drawn from any combination of receptacles, either the built-in one or any number of additional ones connected to its load terminals.

Where should a GFCI be placed in a kitchen?

In kitchens,

all outlets that serve countertop surfaces

should be equipped with GFCI outlet protection. That would include any outlets on walls, behind wet areas (sinks, etc.) that have features such as countertop breakfast bars (open counter surfaces above sinks used to sit at on the opposite side).

Do all outdoor outlets need to be GFCI?


Any 15-amp, 20-amp, or 120-volt outdoor outlet

, must have GFCI protection. … There are similar outlet requirements for kitchens and bathrooms. Anywhere electricity might be used near water and/or flame, GFCI outlets are at least recommended, if not required, in order to guarantee your family’s safety.

Do all laundry outlets need to be GFCI?

The

NEC doesn’t require GFCI protection

for clothes washing machines specifically, but it does for “Laundry Areas.” … If the answer is “yes”, then you have your answer- the clothes washing machine will be GFCI protected, because all 120-Volt receptacles are to be GFCI protected in laundry areas, per the 2017 NEC.

Can refrigerator plugged into regular outlet?

Refrigerator – Most refrigerators work with a

standard 100-120 volt electrical plug and outlet

. … This third prong is used in most large appliances and is electrical ground, protecting your appliance if your electricity shorts out. Dishwasher – A large range of dishwashers use the standard current of 110 volts.

How do I stop my fridge from tripping the GFCI?

  1. Reset the GFCI Outlet. …
  2. Check the Power Cord. …
  3. Check the Power Plug. …
  4. Check That the Circuit Isn’t Overloaded. …
  5. Check the Outlet. …
  6. Check the Circuit Breaker. …
  7. Check the Refrigerator Wiring. …
  8. Check the Defrost Heater.

Can you replace GFCI outlet with regular outlet?


You can replace almost any electrical outlet with a GFCI outlet

. Correctly wired GFCIs will also protect other outlets on the same circuit. While it’s common to find GFCI outlets in bathrooms and kitchens, there are GFCI outlet requirements.

Do you need an electrician to install GFCI?

Do You Need an Electrician to Install a GFCI? If you have basic knowledge of electrical wiring,

you may be able to install a GFCI without professional help

. However, if you have older wiring and outlets, it may be best to let a certified electrician handle the job.

Can you have 2 GFCI outlets on the same circuit?


Yes

, you can use two or more GFCI outlets on the same circuit without any problem at all. The only downside to this is that if one of your GFCI outlets goes down, the others will probably go down as well. … It is well worth putting two or more GFCI outlets on the same circuit, and it’s quite common.

Should I get a 15 or 20 amp GFCI outlet?

Look at the GFCI you are replacing. …

Kitchens and bathrooms should always have 20 amp gfci outlets

. However, you must be using number 12 wire for 20 amp gfci or regular outlets If your wiring is number 14 guage then use a 15 amp. So, the wire size and breaker size together should be rated for 20 amps!

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.