I need to put in some GFCI outlets in the kitchen, bathroom and grage. But how do I know which ones to buy? I looked at Menards and was told that I want to get one that carries enough power for whatever I am going to plug in... ie. microwave, hair dryer. But how do I figure it out? And why do some cost more than others?
2007-01-07 04:30:39 · 15 answers · asked by bjmy1975 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
LONG ANSWER - You need to match the power rating of the outlet to the power rating of the circuit that it will be on (like a 20 amp circuit or a 15 amp circuit). There are also some very specific rules that relate to kitchen appliance circuits so that some appliances (like fridge) must be by themselves.
SHORT ANSWER - Easiest way to figure it out is to look at the outlet you are replacing (if this is not new construction) and see what is printed on it. I doubt you will find more than a 15 amp appliance (like microwave if 7-10 amps and hair dryer is about 15) so if you can't tell then 15 will do it.
Prices vary because some are prettier than others, some have the buttons in a color that matches the outlet color, and some are brand names that think you will pay more for them. Whatever you find in the stores will serve (meet standards) so if one of the type you are looking for is cheaper than the others of that type it is the one to get. BTW if you put an GFCI outlet in the right location (closer to breaker panel than the rest of the outlets on the circuit) you have all of the outlets on that circuit protected. Ask at the store or ask someone who is experienced about the details.
2007-01-07 04:52:44 · answer #1 · answered by Rich Z 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋
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2017-01-22 08:50:13 · answer #2 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
What Is A Gfci Outlet
2016-10-01 07:08:55 · answer #3 · answered by stupka 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There three different types of GFCI devices that you are probably going to be dealing with. There is a single GFCI outlet, which will protect one outlet. There is a feed-though GFCI outlet, which will protect itself and everything else beyond it on the circuit. Then, there is a GFCI breaker which will protect the entire circuit.
The difference in price will be from the different type of GFCI devices and the different amp ratings. A feed-through GFCI receptacle will cost more than a single GFCI unit, but you can save money because it can protect more than one receptacle.
I can't tell you which devices to buy because I don't have enough information about your house. I can tell you that your kitchen and bathroom circuits will need a 20 amp GFCI device. You might be able to use a 15 amp GFCI on your garage, but to be safe you can use a 20 amp.
2007-01-07 12:51:25 · answer #4 · answered by the4biddendonut 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) are rated for 110v service. Most of which are used on outlets with a 15amp service. As for the cost, I'm not sure why, other then the manufacturer. Make sure that it is UL approved and hopefully made in USA.
Do you know why they want you to install a GFCI? Any where there is an electrical outlet by a water source it required for your safety. The GFCI outlet is suppose to save a person from being electrocuted. I've got to tell you, they do work. However, I have removed the one in my garage. After replacing it twice (Leviton), they still trip ANYTIME something is plugged into it. Matters not if it's radio or grinder.
2007-01-07 04:45:44 · answer #5 · answered by LifeRyder 4 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I recommend the kitchen microwave and bathrooms be 20 amp and the garage be 15 amp unless you intend to run a lot of tools in there then I'd go with a 20 amp. Brand doesn't matter really. If they are tripping all the time like another answer it means there is too much draw on the line and the outlet amperage needs to be increased or another circuit added.
2007-01-07 04:55:05 · answer #6 · answered by Jim7368 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
This Site Might Help You.
RE:
Which GFCI outlet do you get?
I need to put in some GFCI outlets in the kitchen, bathroom and grage. But how do I know which ones to buy? I looked at Menards and was told that I want to get one that carries enough power for whatever I am going to plug in... ie. microwave, hair dryer. But how do I figure it out? And why do...
2015-08-06 05:24:30 · answer #7 · answered by Dalt 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The simple answer is, find out what amp circuit controls the outlets you want to install the gfci in. look in your electrical panel to find out the amperage of each circuit. For a 15 amp breaker, use a 15 amp gfci, for 20 amp breaker, use a 20 amp gfci. You can find out what fuse or breaker controls the outlets by flipping the breaker off or unscrewing the fuse.
2007-01-07 07:14:21 · answer #8 · answered by bryan s 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hi, all the GFI receptacles that I've seen will protect the circuit downstream (load) if so desired. (The cost difference has to do with quality, distributor, just like anything else, you can buy $30 sneakers or $100 sneakers.) The reason being is that you can protect the entire circuit with one GFCI receptacle. You need to know where the circuit starts (homerun) to protect the circuit like this. You should ask for some help from someone who is familiar with how this works. Hope this helps.
2007-01-07 04:52:28 · answer #9 · answered by greg 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Gfci are for that purpose to prevent you from getting zapped. their are 15 amps and 20 amps and their is a price difference higher amp the more they cost 15 anps is quit common and 20 amps dont trip out as sone go with the higher if useing a hair dryer and micro if near water
2007-01-07 09:56:37 · answer #10 · answered by gadget1961 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋