Should I Install a GFCI Circuit Breaker or a GFCI Outlet
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Can a GFCI circuit breaker take the place of a GFCI Outlet? Would it be considered to meet NEC Code Requirements? |
GFCI Protection
Electrical Question: Can I install a GFCI circuit breaker instead of a GFCI Outlet?
Can a GFCI circuit breaker take the place of a GFCI outlet? Would it be considered to meet electrical code?
This electrical wiring question came from Lanny, a Homeowner in Minnesota.
Additional Comments: Much useful info.
Lanny, Thank You for Visiting Ask-the-Electrician!
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Lanny.
Electrical Code for a GFCI Protected Outlet
Application: GFCI Protection for an Outlet.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced. This electrical project is best performed by a Licensed Electrician..
Electrical Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools, Voltage Tester, and appropriate Safety Gear.
Estimated Time: Depends on the personal level experience, ability to work with tools, install electrical circuit wiring, and the available access to the project area.
Electrical Safety: Identify the electrical power source to the GFCI Outlet, turn it OFF and Tag with a Note before working with the electrical wiring.
Electrical Wiring Parts and Materials: Electrical parts and materials for the GFCI Outlet should be approved for the specific project and compliant with local and national electrical codes.
Electrical Codes and Inspections: Installing or changing home electrical wiring should be done according to local and national electrical codes as adopted in Minnesota. A permit and inspections may also be required.
 GFCI Outlet in a Kitchen
This electrical wiring project is about a GFCI Outlet in the Kitchen of a Old Home.
Electrical Code for GFCI
Reviewing the Electrical Question:
- Can a GFCI circuit breaker take the place of a GFCI Outlet? Would it be considered to meet code?
- Lanny, from the information you have provided, Yes, a GFCI circuit breaker can be used as the ground fault protection device, and both methods will satisfy the NEC Code requirement for GFCI Protection, NEC Article 210.8. However, in the case where the GFCI breaker would trip off, it would be less convenient to got to the panel to reset the breaker, than it would be to reset a GFCI Outlet that would be in the same area inside the home.
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The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wires!The Non-Contact Electrical TesterThis is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.
The Quickest Way to Check for Faulty Electrical Wiring!The Plug-In Outlet TesterThis is the first tool I grab to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring. This popular tester is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring. It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included Tests standard 3-wire outlets UL Listed Light indicates if wiring is incorrect Very handy and easy to use.
Strip Off Wire Insulation without Nicking and Damaging the Electric Wire!The Wire Stripper and Wire CutterMy absolute favorite wire stripping tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and this is the tool I use to safely strip electrical wires. This handy tool has multiple uses: The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation. The end of the tool can be used to grip and bend wire which is handy for attaching wire onto the screw terminals of switches and outlets.. The wire stripper will work on both solid and stranded wire. This tool is Very Handy and Easy to Use. |
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