GFCI outlets for exterior

**Sam Morris** · 07-30-2011, 06:44 AM

This house built in 2001 didn't have GFCI protected outlets on the 2 exterior outlets, is this a code violation??? Thanks

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**Jack Feldmann** · 07-30-2011, 07:07 AM

yes it is

**John Arnold** · 07-30-2011, 07:18 AM

Here's a cheat sheet I downloaded from this very forum.

**H.G. Watson, Sr.** · 07-30-2011, 08:08 AM

Originally Posted by Sam Morris

This house built in 2001 didn't have GFCI protected outlets on the 2 exterior outlets, is this a code violation??? Thanks

Perhaps not, It depends.

First, what type of "outlets"? Receptacle outlets? Lighting outlets? Other "outlet" types? I note the phrase "...the 2 exterior outlets..." Which perhaps suggests there are two exterior access/entrances/exit paths to grade on the home, or perhaps just one requiring both a receptacle "outlet" and a "lighting outlet" for the exterior, (?!?) depending on the code cycle and local ammendments; again bringing into question what these "outlet" (of any kind) locations (lighting, receptacle, or otherwise) you question. Is this question regarding receptacle outlets near entrances within proximity and elevation to "finished grade"? Might this be an "elevated ranch" type home or similar elevated entrances above the "ground " with extended finsihed surfaces (porches, decks, stairs) at landing/outlet location? Is the area and/or "outlet" protected from weather? Is ready access compromised to either or both "outlet"s?

Next, which codes and editions was in place at the time of permit/construction? 1985, 1987, 1990, 1993, 1996, 1999? Completed in 2001 construction (C of O) suggests other than use of the IRC, IEC, and 2001 edition of the NEC.

Third, you made no mention of these " outlets' " exterior location or direct access from grade; nor to what purpose or function the "outlets" serve.

Fourth, you do not indicate if either "outlet" has been changed, replaced, repurposed, etc. since original construction date (should they be 120V receptacle "outlets" subsequently requiring GFCI protection).

Presuming receptacle "outlets", still unknown elevation (snow melting equipment perhpas?) we also do know not know the voltage (120, 240, low voltage) or current; nor style.

Were they actually "outlet(s)" or an "input" interface, older generator connection perhaps?

Fifth, what kind of "house" - a "manufactured home" perhaps? (for which one would refer to different standards, and Fed. Regulations).

Finally, although you state these "outlets" have no GFCI protection, one wonders if they were "regular" receptacles not combination GFCI/receptacles, and that they may, indeed have GFCI protection line side of the devices, or GFPE integrated with the "working" of power.

**Rick Cantrell** · 07-30-2011, 08:57 AM

Originally Posted by H.G. Watson, Sr.

Perhaps not, It depends.

First, what type of "outlets"? Receptacle outlets? Lighting outlets? Other "outlet" types? I note the phrase "...the 2 exterior outlets..." Which perhaps suggests there are two exterior access/entrances/exit paths to grade on the home, or perhaps just one requiring both a receptacle "outlet" and a "lighting outlet" for the exterior, (?!?) depending on the code cycle and local ammendments; again bringing into question what these "outlet" (of any kind) locations (lighting, receptacle, or otherwise) you question. Is this question regarding receptacle outlets near entrances within proximity and elevation to "finished grade"? Might this be an "elevated ranch" type home or similar elevated entrances above the "ground " with extended finsihed surfaces (porches, decks, stairs) at landing/outlet location? Is the area and/or "outlet" protected from weather? Is ready access compromised to either or both "outlet"s?

Next, which codes and editions was in place at the time of permit/construction? 1985, 1987, 1990, 1993, 1996, 1999? Completed in 2001 construction (C of O) suggests other than use of the IRC, IEC, and 2001 edition of the NEC.

Third, you made no mention of these " outlets' " exterior location or direct access from grade; nor to what purpose or function the "outlets" serve.

Fourth, you do not indicate if either "outlet" has been changed, replaced, repurposed, etc. since original construction date (should they be 120V receptacle "outlets" subsequently requiring GFCI protection).

Presuming receptacle "outlets", still unknown elevation (snow melting equipment perhpas?) we also do know not know the voltage (120, 240, low voltage) or current; nor style.

Were they actually "outlet(s)" or an "input" interface, older generator connection perhaps?

Fifth, what kind of "house" - a "manufactured home" perhaps? (for which one would refer to different standards, and Fed. Regulations).

Finally, although you state these "outlets" have no GFCI protection, one wonders if they were "regular" receptacles not combination GFCI/receptacles, and that they may, indeed have GFCI protection line side of the devices, or GFPE integrated with the "working" of power.

Mr Watson
We can count on you to give meaningful and concise answers.