In residential structures, GFCI outlets are required in which location?

In residential structures, GFCI outlets are required in which location?

• A. Bathrooms
• B. Garages
• C. Kitchens
• D. Living rooms

Answer: (B)

Ground-fault protection works by watching the current balance between the hot and neutral conductors, and if any current leaks to ground, the outlet shuts off in a fraction of a second. This rapid disconnection helps prevent electric shock when there’s moisture or water nearby. Garages are a location where this protection is required because outlets there are often near damp floors, on workbenches, or used with power tools and cleaners where contact with moisture is more likely. The GFCI will trip if a fault occurs, reducing the risk of serious shock in those conditions. It’s also why bathrooms and kitchens require GFCI outlets, while living rooms typically do not, reflecting the different risk levels in those spaces.

Ground-fault protection works by watching the current balance between the hot and neutral conductors, and if any current leaks to ground, the outlet shuts off in a fraction of a second. This rapid disconnection helps prevent electric shock when there’s moisture or water nearby.

Garages are a location where this protection is required because outlets there are often near damp floors, on workbenches, or used with power tools and cleaners where contact with moisture is more likely. The GFCI will trip if a fault occurs, reducing the risk of serious shock in those conditions. It’s also why bathrooms and kitchens require GFCI outlets, while living rooms typically do not, reflecting the different risk levels in those spaces.