Thread: GFCI outlet limitations

I had a new home today (fully AFCI) where the exterior GFCI outlets were per the current standards (front porch, rear patio, AC condensing unit, garage) BUT when the GFCI was "triggered" it also turned off the front porch lights, the garage coach lights, the inside ceiling light in the garage, the sprinkler system outlet and possible others. I only noticed the sprinkler outlet because the sprinklers were on during the inspection (trying to save the lawn in the Texas drought). My question is whether having lighting circuits or other functions "triggered" by this one GFCI-protected circuit is permissible. It seems like an annoyance at best and possibly more. Is there a code or standards prohibition for an arrangement like this or is it allowable?

Cliff Mark
TREC # 7704

Similar Threads:

• 3-wire dryer receptacle outlet
• Sewage ejection pump-GFCI?
• Outlet just outside it's life
• Testing GFCI Outlets
• Kitchen area GFCI

Originally Posted by Clifford Mark

My question is whether having lighting circuits or other functions "triggered" by this one GFCI-protected circuit is permissible.



It seems like an annoyance at best and possibly more.

Yes it is permissible.

Yes it would be annoying.

Thanks Jerry. Seems like it "oughta" be wrong. If the exterior circuit is "tripped" for good cause when the homeowner comes home on a late wintry night, lack of lighting on the exterior might be considered unsafe.

Have a good weekend.

Cliff

Originally Posted by Clifford Mark

If the exterior circuit is "tripped" for good cause when the homeowner comes home on a late wintry night, lack of lighting on the exterior might be considered unsafe.

Cliff,

The same as if they had left the lights off or lamps burned out and were not replaced.

No greater unsafe hazard than those everyday occurrences.

Yeah, you're right. Thanks Jerry.