...PRO AND CONS OF GFCI RECEPTACLES vs GFCI...

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Question by REBA MCGINNIS
Submitted on 7/21/2003
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WHAT ARE THE PRO AND CONS OF GFCI RECEPTACLES vs GFCI BREAKERS AND WHEN AND WHERE SHOULD EACH BE USED?

Answer by tom
Submitted on 10/25/2003
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Pros: they can detect small voltage leaks and trip a breaker quickly enough to prevent electrocution. The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires installation of GFI outlets in damp areas (e.g. basements, outdoor garages/sheds) and in areas near water pipes (kitchen/bathroom sink, bathtub). Cons: They're expensive (but well worth it, in my opinion.)

Answer by Tim Janof
Submitted on 3/11/2004
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If a circuit has multiple devices on it, and there is a fault, and if the circuit is protected by a GFCI breaker, it will be much more difficult to find the location of the fault. All you'll know is that there is a fault "somewhere" on the circuit. If a standard breaker is used, and if GFCI receptacles are used throughout, one can go find the individual GFCI receptacle that tripped. Thus, individual GFCI's allow for much quicker location and diagnosis of the fault condition.

Answer by dr.bob
Submitted on 4/11/2004
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Keep in mind that one GFCI outlet protects somewhere near 3-6 outlets downstream. That in and of itself could make it harder to detect which device triggered the fault - if that's of concern to you. Adhere to the specific device's specifications for the number of protected outlets downstream. Another thing the GFCI breaker can be used for is hardwired items, like garbage disposals and dishwashers. My 2¢.

Answer by ncbrink
Submitted on 12/28/2004
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the last thing you want to do is put household motor loads on a gfci unless you can make many trips to the basement to reset the trip.

Answer by Scott
Submitted on 6/6/2005
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What would cause a dishwasher to trip the GFCI breaker and not a regular 20a breaker?

Answer by iave3
Submitted on 11/7/2005
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how many pulg is hold on a 20amp breaker? what is the height that a plug should go on a wall?

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