ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade General Discussion Area Washer outlet

Ok, Heres the question, I would like to know why it is not required to have a washer outlet gfi protected when their is a hot and cold water connection 1-3 feet from its location. I was told it is not required by code. I have always installed such in the past but was recently told to stop doing such. What code covers this, if someone could provide such number that would be great as well as a explanation.

210.8 A

(A) Dwelling Units. All 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles installed in the locations specified in (1) through (8) shall have ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for personnel.


Exception No. 1: Receptacles that are not readily accessible.
Exception No. 2: A single receptacle or a duplex receptacle for two appliances located within dedicated space for each appliance that, in normal use, is not easily moved from one place to another and that is cord-and-plug connected in accordance with 400.7(A)(6), (A)(7), or (A)(8).

There is no requirement for laundry room outlets to be GFCI in the first place so we do not need any exceptions.

If the washer happens to be in the garage or in an unfinished basement you may use the exceptions eagle listed to avoid putting a GFCI in.

There is no reason not to use a GFCI for this if you want to other than cost.

It is my feeling then, that if it is a outlet to service the washer it should be a single outlet then, so that no can come along and plug an iron in or any other item that can poss. fall into the washer or come in contact with water!! If anything outlet wise in a bathroom must be protected or a garage or unfinished basement then why not the washer. But like i said this is only my thoughts.

The NEC is a MINIMUM standard! I always put the washer on a Ground fault circuit (a recep). 8 bucks ain't gonna make or break you on any job.
Besides, you almost always get extras on houses so you can easily make up for those few dollars.
I usually go above and beyond code requirements in houses anyway (when I'm doing them for individuals NOT builders!).

I can't wait 'til NEMA comes out with Arc Fault receptacles...

I am a firm supporter of the use of GFCIs all I was doing was pointing out the requirements, by all means install them if you want to.