Are Bathrooms Required To Have GFCI Outlets?
In nearly every space where water and electricity could mix, you’ve probably noticed GFCI outlets.
They look similar to the regular type, with one exception. In between the two sockets are a couple of small buttons. It’s more than just looks, though. They serve an important purpose.
We’re exploring the rules and regulations around ground fault circuit interrupters today! You’ll learn how they function and why they are essential for safety.
What are GFCI outlets?
1975 was an important year for the GFCI outlet. It was then that the electrical code changed to require them in bathrooms.
Standard outlets provide power unless the circuit they’re on has tripped at the breaker panel. Think of a GFCI connection as a switch that shuts off power to only that outlet when a fault is detected.
In wet areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and around pools, they’re required by the national electrical code.
Water is an excellent conductor of electrical current. Using appliances around the bathtub or sink, you run the risk of a ground fault. Also, if you’re in contact with the liquid, you could receive a nasty shock or worse.
Some devices have a circuit interrupter built in to protect you when a GFCI outlet isn’t available. But electrical code requires them in homes built or remodeled after the seventies.
How do GFCI outlets work?
Ground faults are when AC current escapes its intended path and channels through a grounded surface. When that happens, an electrical potential follows the line and can result in electric shock if you’re the grounded surface.
Typically, this happens around moisture and can cause severe burns, shocks, or death. You could also experience a hot wire. That’s a good indication that there's a short circuit somewhere.
When a GFCI outlet detects a leak of power from its intended path, a switch in the mechanism breaks the circuit. Effectively, it’s like a mini breaker panel in the outlet. Installed correctly, they sometimes cut power to all receptacles down the electrical system. All current after the GFCI outlet stops, preventing accidental shocks.
To restore power, simply press the “reset” button. If there’s still a short, it will immediately shut off again, so you know you haven’t fixed the problem.
What makes them separate from other protection outlets?
You’ve likely seen several protective electrical receptacles, GFCI, GFI, and AFCI. Each is designed to prevent a different type of problem.
The first two are the same, just sold under different names. They’re designed to prevent shocks, specifically. The technical term for this is “personnel protection”.
Arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCI) differ in that they trip when the switch detects an arcing current. This type of fault is similar to lightning, discharging excess electricity through the air as plasma. If the voltage is high enough, superheated air transmits enough current to vaporize metal.
Why GFCI outlets are necessary
Electricity is a powerful force that we shouldn’t take for granted. The energy transmitted through a power receptacle can cause death under the right circumstances. GFCI outlets prevent the majority of injuries through accidental exposure to current.
And, because water is such a powerful conductor, putting them close to sinks and pools is necessary.
GFCI outlets are a safety precaution against ground faults
Ground faults are when electricity follows an unintended path through a grounded surface or thing. This could be a metal pipe, standing water, or moisture entering the receptacle. When the current discharges, it can cause serious injury!
They are mandatory due to electrical codes
Electrical codes outline the bare minimum for safety concerning all elements that carry current. It’s nice to think that all builders have the safety and well-being of their clients in mind. Some cut corners to save time and money, which puts your safety at risk.
Inspectors must sign off on the work in new builds and remodels before it’s considered safe or “up to code.” Contractors must fix the issue if a dwelling or commercial space doesn’t have the required electrical safety precautions.
Apartments and building codes require to have them
Multi-family dwellings and large buildings also are required to have these outlets. Federal guidelines stipulate that they’re placed within six feet of a sink or shower.
Where else are GFCI outlets required?
You won’t only find GFCI outlets in bathrooms and kitchens. Other areas exposed to water need them, too. The NEC goes on to list the following required branch circuit locations to be protected by GFCI technology: bathrooms, garages, outdoors, crawl spaces, basements, kitchens (countertop receptacles), sinks (within 1.8 m, 6 ft), boathouses, bathtubs, laundry areas, and indoor damp and wet locations.
Garages will require a GFCI outlet the majority of the time
As of October 2021, garage outlets must have GFCI outlets by federal mandate. For DIYers, they’re significant in this area because tools could have faulty wiring or come in contact with a water source.
If you have one, basements will be required to have GFCI outlets as well
Not all basements are damp and musty. But, because they’re more prone to flooding and exposure to moisture, they are a requirement. Without them, any fluid could transmit a powerful shock.
Anywhere that has a water source, GFCI outlets need to be present
Because water is such an excellent conductor of electricity, anywhere the two could meet should have a GFCI. The rules extend outside of the home as well. A fault interrupter outlet should protect any outdoor connections.
Young Cardinal Electric is here to help with any installation of GFCI outlets you may need!
If you’re moving into a new home or need to replace outlets in your vintage pad, Young Cardinal Electric can help. Electrical current isn’t anything to mess around with, and our years of experience come in handy! We can even add outlets if you don’t have enough connections, including for your electric car.
Safety in your home gives you peace of mind. Connect with us online and book a consultation today!