ndegaris
(Neil DeGaris, CMI KY License # 102167)
1
Came across this GFCI today, I have never seen one like this, Was in bathroom next to light switch but separated from usual GFCI Outlet, I could not figure out what circuit it was protecting. Only possibility I came to was for spa tub, test button worked ok, I know someone has seen these before and will shed some light on me. Thanks
You should start seeing more of these devices when the bathroom contains a hydromassage tub. That’s because the NEC was changed to require that all GFCI devices be readily accessible for testing. That means that putting the device behind the access panel for the tub does not meet the definition of readily accessible so you should find the GFCI protection elsewhere, like a blank front device or a circuit breaker.
Robert… curious when that change became effective? I still find them behind the (fastened) access panel or even in the basement next to the distribution panel, in homes only a few years old.
If it cannot be seen is it readily accessible? Behind a panel is accessible, but not readily. Some of those panel are screwed in so that would remove them as readily. Even the snap in access panels need a screwdriver to pry the tabs.
I agree. The one in my post was a PIA to open. The homeowner even had to search for a ‘short’ stubby screwdriver as mine was “too long” and hit the toilet!
