Journeyman Electrician Exam (NEC)Equipment and DevicesEasy
A client requests a new 120-volt, 15-ampere duplex receptacle to be installed in a basement for general use. Which type of overcurrent protection must this receptacle circuit incorporate according to the NEC?
- AOverload protection
- BSurge Protective Device (SPD)
- CGround-Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection
- DArc-Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) protection
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection
According to NEC 210.8(A)(5), all 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles installed in basements of dwelling units must have ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for personnel.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Overload protection is inherent in the circuit breaker, but GFCI is an additional specific requirement for safety.
- B. SPD is for protection against voltage surges, not a mandatory safety device for this specific location.
- D. AFCI protection is required for most dwelling unit outlets, but GFCI is specifically mandated for basement receptacles.
GFCI Protection for Basements
Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection is required for all 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles located in basements of dwelling units to protect against electrical shock hazards.
- NEC 210.8(A)(5) mandates GFCI for dwelling unit basements.
- Protects against ground faults, which can occur in damp locations.
- Applies to 15A and 20A, 125V receptacles.
Memory trick: GFCI: Wet places get the shock stopper.