Ecmweb 3551 406 03d3 01web
Ecmweb 3551 406 03d3 01web
Ecmweb 3551 406 03d3 01web
Ecmweb 3551 406 03d3 01web
Ecmweb 3551 406 03d3 01web

Code Q&A

Jan. 6, 2011
Q. When I add a GFCI-protected receptacle in an existing circuit that does not have an equipment grounding conductor, can I add additional grounding-type receptacles on the load side of it?

Q. When I add a GFCI-protected receptacle in an existing circuit that does not have an equipment grounding conductor, can I add additional grounding-type receptacles on the load side of it?

A. Where no equipment grounding conductor exists in the outlet box for the receptacle, such as old 2-wire Type NM cable without an equipment grounding conductor, existing nongrounding-type receptacles can be replaced with one of the following [406.3(D)(3)(1), (2), and (3)]:

  • Another nongrounding-type receptacle.
  • A GFCI-type receptacle marked "No Equip¬ment Ground."
  • A grounding-type receptacle, if GFCI-protected and marked "GFCI-Protected" and "No Equipment Ground."
GFCI protection functions properly on a 2-wire circuit without an equipment grounding conductor because the circuit equipment grounding conductor serves no role in the operation of the GFCI-protection device.

Caution: The permission to replace nongrounding-type receptacles with GFCI-protected grounding-type receptacles doesn't apply to new receptacle outlets that extend from an existing ungrounded outlet box. Once you add a receptacle outlet (branch circuit extension), the receptacle must be of the grounding type, and it must have its grounding terminal connected to an equipment grounding conductor of a type recognized in 250.118, in accordance with 250.130(C).

About the Author

Mike Holt

Mike Holt is the owner of Mike Holt Enterprises (www.MikeHolt.com), one of the largest electrical publishers in the United States. He earned a master's degree in the Business Administration Program (MBA) from the University of Miami. He earned his reputation as a National Electrical Code (NEC) expert by working his way up through the electrical trade. Formally a construction editor for two different trade publications, Mike started his career as an apprentice electrician and eventually became a master electrician, an electrical inspector, a contractor, and an educator. Mike has taught more than 1,000 classes on 30 different electrical-related subjects — ranging from alarm installations to exam preparation and voltage drop calculations. He continues to produce seminars, videos, books, and online training for the trade as well as contribute monthly Code content to EC&M magazine.

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