Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets shut off power when they detect even small leakage to ground — the way a leak might go through a person standing in water. They’re required in any room where water and electricity meet.
OESC-required GFCI locations
- Bathrooms — all outlets within 1.5m of the sink (effectively all bathroom outlets).
- Kitchens — all outlets serving the countertop within 1.5m of the sink, and any island countertop outlets.
- Outdoor outlets — every exterior outlet on the home.
- Garages and carports — all general-use outlets.
- Unfinished basements — all outlets.
- Wet bars within 1.5m of the sink.
- Laundry tubs and sinks — outlets within 1.5m.
- Pool and hot tub adjacent outlets — specific rules per the OESC pool section.
- Crawl spaces — if there’s an outlet down there for any reason.
What about AFCIs?
Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) are a related-but-different technology. They detect arcing faults (the kind that cause electrical fires inside walls). The OESC requires them on most general-purpose 15A and 20A circuits in bedrooms, dining rooms, living rooms, hallways — basically, the “living areas”.
Dual-function AFCI/GFCI breakers exist and are now common in new construction.
What if I have older outlets in these locations?
Grandfather clause — existing non-GFCI outlets aren’t required to be upgraded unless you’re renovating or doing other work that triggers a code update. But upgrading them is cheap insurance — about $40–$80 per outlet, often done at the same time as other work.
Tripped GFCIs and how to reset them
A tripped GFCI shows a popped middle button. Press “test” then “reset” firmly — you’ll feel a click. If it doesn’t reset, there’s a real fault — don’t keep trying. Call us.
One trick: GFCIs often protect several downstream outlets. If a kitchen outlet stops working, check the bathroom GFCI — the kitchen outlets might be wired through it.
Testing GFCIs monthly
Press “test” on each GFCI in your home monthly. It should pop the “reset” button immediately. If it doesn’t, the GFCI is dead and needs replacement — it’s not protecting you.