Why GFCI for Kitchen/Baths
It’s the rare kitchen or bath that doesn’t feature at least one GFCI outlet seeing as the code requires GFCI. It’s been 52 years since the National Electric Code made GFCI outlets a requirement in 1971.
Like all the NEC requirements, it’s about safety. GFCI outlets help protect against accidental electrocution and power surges. Recommended for installation in wet and moist areas, i.e. kitchens and bathrooms, a GFCI outlet has a built-in mechanism to cut power if the outlet detects an electrical imbalance or surge. This happens when a circuit is overloaded or if there is a short and can be triggered when a person is electrocuted. By cutting the power in milliseconds, GFCI outlets stop the flow of electricity before it can cause significant harm to a person.
Most homes built in the last few years have 75 outlets, one every six feet in living areas. If your home was built decades earlier, you’ll want to increase the number of outlets vs. plugging in extension cords that do cause a fire risk.
At a minimum, one GFCI outlet is required per bathroom. In the kitchen GFCIs are required when located within six feet of the sink or if they serve a countertop. Receptacles within 6 feet of a laundry sink or washing machine should also be GFCI as well as those near a water heater.
If you’re in need of GFCIs in your kitchen and bath, call the experts Evergreen Electric LLC for a quick response and top-tier service. The pros at Evergreen will deliver on time and on budget.