Code Q&A: GFCI Protection for Breakers

Test your NEC knowledge.

Nov. 18, 2020

2 min read

Based on the 2020 NEC.

Q. What are the Code requirements for GFCI protection of appliances?

See answer below.

A. As outlined in Sec. 422.5(A), the following appliances rated 150 volts-to-ground or less and 60A or less must be GFCI protected by Class “A” protective device(s) [Sec. 422.5(B)].

(1) Automotive vacuum machines.

(2) Drinking water coolers and bottle fill stations.

(3) Cord-and-plug-connected high-pressure spray washing machines.

(4) Tire inflation machines.

(5) Vending machines.

(6) Sump pumps.

(7) Dishwashers.

Informational Note: Section 210.8 specifies requirements for GFCI protection for the receptacle outlets where the location warrants such protection.

As per Sec. 422.5(B), the GFCI must be readily accessible and located in one or more of the following locations:

(1) A GFCI circuit breaker,

(2) A GFCI device or receptacle,

(3) A GFCI integral with the attachment plug,

(4) A GFCI within the supply cord not more than 12 in. from the attachment plug, or

(5) A factory installed GFCI within the appliance.

The additional reference to Class A GFCIs seems to be redundant as Art. 100 defines a GFCI stating that the device must comply with the time current trip requirements that have been established for a Class A device. As a result of that definition, anytime the NEC requires GFCI protection, it must be provided by a Class A GFCI.

These materials are provided to us by Mike Holt Enterprises in Leesburg, Fla. To view Code training materials offered by this company, visit www.mikeholt.com/code.

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.