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Joined: Oct 2006
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Can a GFCI receptacle be used as a disconnecting means for an out building (fed by only a single circuit) using the test button? I say no, but I saw this done over the weekend at a friend's place and he swears that it was inspected. I don't believe him.
---Ed---
"But the guy at Home Depot said it would work."
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Joined: Apr 2002
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John
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Joined: Mar 2013
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A GFCI CAN be used as a disconnecting means... that is what is supposed to do. This is not up for debate. Whether or not it is acceptable practice is the question.
A little more detail would be helpful, otherwise we'll be answering your question on a lot of assumptions.
There is a circuit, starting with a GFCI at the main building, which then runs to the out building?
Depending on the specific situation and the wiring in the outbuilding (the fact that it is only one circuit), I could see it being passed by an AHJ.
Last edited by NickD; 10/08/13 10:23 PM.
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 1,337
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GFCI's are not listed as a service disconnect thus can not be used as one
"Live Awesome!" - Kevin Carosa
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Joined: Jul 2004
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The only exception to 225.38 is that a snap switch can be used in garages and out buildings on residential properties.
Nothing about a GFCI
Greg Fretwell
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Joined: Apr 2002
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Again & IMHO no it cannot be a disconnect. Yes, in theory pushing the 'test' button will open the circuit, but it is not manufactured, designed or intended as a disconnect.
John
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Joined: Jul 2004
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Greg Fretwell
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Joined: Apr 2002
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Greg:
225.36 from 2011:
225.36 Suitable for Service Equipment. The disconnecting
means specified in 225.31 shall be suitable for use as
service equipment.
Exception: For garages and outbuildings on residential
property, a snap switch or a set of 3-way or 4-way snap
switches shall be permitted as the disconnecting means.
You are agreeing that a GFI cannot be used??
John
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Joined: Jul 2004
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Yes. It is not a snap switch and it is not suitable as service equipment as AK sparky pointed out.
Greg Fretwell
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Joined: Jul 2007
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Test buttons don't always work on them
"Live Awesome!" - Kevin Carosa
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