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When Should a Gfci Be Used?

Maya Lin-Takahashi • • 7 min read
When Should a Gfci Be Used?
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.

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Hereof, when would you use a GFCI breaker?

When to Install a GFCI Breaker:

  1. When the majority or all of the outlets on the circuit require GFCI protection.
  2. When outlets that require GFCI protection don't have the space for the bigger GFCI receptacles.
  3. For specialty uses, like for heated swimming pools.

Beside above, what does a GFCI outlet do? A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI), or Residual Current Device (RCD) is a type of circuit breaker which shuts off electric power when it senses an imbalance between the outgoing and incoming current. A circuit breaker protects the house wires and receptacles from overheating and possible fire.

Moreover, what is a GFCI outlet and where is one needed?

Code requires that GFCI outlets be used in any location that is six feet or closer to a plumbing fixture or moisture source. This includes multiple areas of a typical home, such as: Kitchens. Bathrooms.

Do you need GFCI in kitchen?

The NEC (NFPA 70 2011 edition) requires GFCI receptacles in kitchens of dwelling units where the receptacles are installed to serve the countertop surfaces. It does not mention a distance requirement in kitchens. The distance requirement of 1.8 meters (6 feet) is for sinks located in areas other than kitchens.

Related Question Answers

What is the difference between GFI and GFCI?

GFI is an ground fault interrupting outlet. GFCI is a ground fault circuit interrupter. GFI is an ground fault interrupting outlet. GFCI is a ground fault circuit interrupter.

Which is better GFCI outlet or breaker?

Because all of these receptacles require GFCI protection, it is probably more efficient to wire the circuit with a GFCI breaker so that everything on the circuit is protected. GFCI receptacles, on the other hand, are generally used instead of a standard outlet receptacle to offer protection to single outlet location.
Maya Lin-Takahashi
Author

Maya Lin-Takahashi

Maya is a hardware enthusiast who tests and reviews smart home devices, smartphones, wearables, and audio gear. She focuses on practical consumer value and build quality.