I heard that all the outlets in my garage need to be GFCI protected. Can I just install GFCI breakers instead of replacing every outlet with GFCI outlets? I'm located in Anaheim, California.
3 Answers
As others have mentioned, you’re generally fine replacing just the first outlet with a GFCI outlet if you know which one it is. That way, the GFCI protects everything downstream. But if you’re not sure about the outlet order, a GFCI breaker might be the simpler way to go!
You only really need to swap out the first GFCI outlet in the circuit. As long as you keep that one GFCI there, it will protect the others down the line. Just make sure to put a sticker saying 'GFCI Protected' on the remaining outlets that aren’t GFCI, as that’s often required.
You can definitely use GFCI breakers instead of replacing all your outlets with GFCIs. If you have multiple outlets on one breaker, swapping in a GFCI breaker at the start should work—just make sure it fits your breaker box since they can vary. Typically, these breakers cost around $50-60. Though, in California, they have some pretty strict codes that might require more than one GFCI outlet. So double-check your local regulations!
Yeah, I hear California can be pretty particular with electrical codes. Just replacing the breaker could save you some money if you're sure about its placement.
Totally agree! I had to add GFCIs in my garage because of the concrete floor regulations here in New Hampshire.
That’s correct! Keep the first one GFCI, and you’ll cover everything else without having to replace every single outlet.