Three Types of GFCI outlets

People who have come here may have a question for GFCI types.  Basically, there are three main types of GFCI outlets.

GFCI Receptacles

The most common GFCI used for residential homes is a GFCI receptacle. This inexpensive device replaces a standard receptacle (outlet). Completely compatible with any standard outlet, it can protect other downstream outlets  (any outlet receiving power from the GFCI outlet).  This also explains the change from GFI to GFCI—to reference the protected “circuits”.

This type of GFCI outlets are typically “fatter” than standard outlets thus take up more space in a single gang or double gang electrical box.  Newer technology like the Faith Electric GFCI take up far less space than ever before. Wiring a GFCI outlet is no big deal, but you need to do it correctly in order for the protection to be effective downstream.

GFCI Circuit Breaker

Professionals are using GFCI circuit breakers more frequently since they allow builders and electricians to use standard outlets and simply install a single GFCI circuit breaker in the panel box.  GFCI circuit breakers can protect every fixture on the circuit—lights, outlets, fans, etc. They also provide protection against overloads and simple short-circuits.

Portable GFCI

This type of device provides GFCI-level protection in a portable unit.  If you have a device requiring GFCI protection, but can’t locate a protected outlet—this gives you the same protection.

WHERE TO INSTALL GFCIS

Most outdoor receptacles in homes built to comply with the National Electrical Code(NEC) require GFCI protection since around 1973.  The NEC extended that to include bathroom receptacles In 1975.  In 1978, garage wall outlets were added.  It took until around 1987 for the code to include kitchen receptacles.  Many homeowners find that they were redoing their electrical to comply with current law.  All receptacles in crawl spaces and unfinished basements also require GFCI outlets or breakers (since 1990).

It is clearly that newer GFCI circuit breakers make retrofitting a home with GFCI protection much easier than replacing each individual outlet in a system.  For homes protected by fuses (seriously consider upgrading your box for home improvement), you may need to consider to use GFCI receptacles. For upgrading, we recommend focusing on the most critical areas like bathrooms, kitchens, crawl spaces, and outdoor spaces.