Where Are GFCI Outlets Required

GFCI Outlet | Express Electrical

GFCI outlets keep your household safe from electric shock and injury in areas where moisture or electric overload is common. Whether you’re building a new home or updating an older one, it’s important to know where your home needs to have GFCI outlets installed. Keep reading to discover the areas where the NEC requires the installation of GFCI outlets and other spaces where they’re useful. 

What are GFCI Outlets?

GFCI stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter, often used interchangeably with the phrase ground fault interrupter (GFI).  A ground fault is an unintentional electric flow between an electrical current and a grounded surface. These intuitive breaker devices are built into outlets to protect individuals from electrical shock and injury. GFCIs look like traditional outlets, except they have ‘TEST’ and ‘RESET’ buttons on the face of the receptacle. If it detects an imbalance within a few milliamps, it will automatically shut down and stop supplying electricity to that outlet in as little as 20 to 30 milliseconds.  

GFCI Outlets and the National Electrical Code (NEC)

The National Electrical Code (NEC) is updated every three years to include revised and up-to-date electrical code guidelines. These guidelines are helpful for contractors and homeowners who are involved in new construction builds, repairs, and ongoing renovations. While the NEC’s recommended GFCI requirements are not federally mandated laws, they are the favored protocol for safely installing electrical systems, wiring, circuit breakers, and various outlets. 

Older homes tend to have outdated outlets and lack proper GFCI outlet wiring. Your home’s electrical infrastructure plays an important role in the overall safety of the property. Safety hazards like electrical fires and electrocution are very real threats to your family and your home. 

With the continued modernization of major home appliances, your electrical system will need updating to meet the demands of new technologies. If you are considering a remodel or attempting to bring your home up to code, you must meet the amended National Electric Code (NEC) requirements. One requirement is to install GFCI outlets in any home area with running water or a damp atmosphere. 

According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), nearly 44 million American homes still lack proper GFCI outlets installed in ‘wet’ rooms. The organization asserts that over 47% of electrocutions would be avoided if older homes installed GFCIs in the appropriate places. 

Where the NEC Requires GFCI Outlets

You should have GFCIs in any room or space near water where it can flow on or against electrical equipment. The NEC considers these areas a ”‘wet room.” As outlined in the most recent code requirements of the NEC, the locations that require GFCI outlets include:

  • Bathrooms
  • Kitchens
  • Laundry rooms
  • Utility rooms
  • Basements where there is a sink within six feet of an outlet
  • Patios
  • Outdoor dining areas
  • Outdoor areas within 20 feet of a swimming pool
  • Office break rooms
  • Garages that have running water

As stated earlier, the NEC updates its code standards every three years to accommodate newer homes and more demanding appliances and technologies. They require GFCI protection for any 125- to 250-volt receptacles connected to single-phase circuits that run under 150 volts to the ground. All new construction homes now require GFCI outlets, and the NEC strongly urges property owners living in older homes to update their electrical systems to include GFCI outlets in the recommended areas. 

Recommended Locations for GFCI Outlets (Even If Not Required)

While the NEC does not require GFCI outlets in living rooms, bedrooms, dens, or home offices, you should consider installing additional outlets in parts of the home that have increased activity or more electronics. Installing GFCI outlets in these areas protects you from shock if they become overloaded.

You should also consider installing GFCI outlets in the following areas:

  • Workshops
  • Attics or crawl spaces
  • Outdoor sheds
  • Living rooms with large aquariums
  • In saunas or steam rooms

Even though not required by the NEC, installing GFCI outlets in these areas ensures your household’s safety in case of ground fault electrical problems.

where are gfci outlets required

Installing and Maintaining GFCI Outlets

You should always contact a certified electrician to install GFCI outlets, as working with electricity presents various dangers. These technicians have the training and experience to install the outlet safely and ensure the protection of your household. 

It’s essential to test and reset your GFCI outlets once per month to ensure proper function. To do this, follow these steps:

  1. Plug a small device, such as a lamp or alarm clock, into the outlet
  2. Turn the device on
  3. Push the ‘TEST’ button on the outlet
  4. The device should shut off, you should hear a click, and the ‘RESET’ button should pop out
  5. Press the ‘RESET’ button in to reset the outlet

If the device does not turn off or the ‘RESET’ button does not pop out, the outlet is likely faulty and needs replacement. Immediately discontinue using the outlet and contact a certified electrician to have it assessed.

Call Express Electrical for GFCI Outlet Installation

Express Electrical Services champions businesses and homeowners who want to install safer electrical systems. We offer superior Los Angeles GFCI installation and whole-home rewiring services that can help you save electricity in the long term and add value to your home. 

Our team is available 24/7, so you can rest easy knowing we’re available when electrical issues strike. Our certified electricians are known for their reliable, efficient service, which has resulted in hundreds of five-star reviews. Call us today at (855) 976-9049 to learn more about our services in Southern California.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where should I not install GFCI outlets?

Do not install GFCI outlets in circuits longer than 100 feet, where fluorescent lighting fixtures are in use, or where you have permanently installed electric motors. Due to the sensitive nature of GFCI outlets, you may experience excessive tripping in these areas.

How long do GFCI outlets last?

GFCI outlets last between seven and 15 years, depending on the amount of use. The top signs that your GFCI outlet requires replacement include lack of power coming from the outlet, trip failure when you push the test button, and the reset button does not pop out. If you notice these signs, contact our team to schedule a replacement in Los Angeles.