GFCI Outlet Requirements in Wisconsin: NEC 2020 Complete Guide
GFCI outlets save lives. They detect ground faults—current leaking through water, your body, or damaged wiring—and cut power in 1/40th of a second. Here's where Wisconsin requires them.
GFCI Protection Saves Lives
Before GFCI requirements, ~800 people died annually from electrocution in the US. Today that number is under 200. GFCIs are the single most effective electrical safety device.
Where GFCI Protection is Required (NEC 2020)
- Bathrooms: All receptacles
- Kitchens: All countertop receptacles and within 6 feet of sink
- Garages: All receptacles (except dedicated appliance circuits)
- Outdoors: All receptacles
- Unfinished basements: All receptacles
- Crawl spaces: All receptacles at or below grade
- Laundry areas: Within 6 feet of laundry sink
- Pool/spa areas: All receptacles within 20 feet
NEC 2020 Expansions
The 2020 National Electrical Code expanded GFCI requirements significantly:
- Dishwashers: Now require GFCI protection (new in 2020)
- 250V receptacles: GFCI required in all wet locations
- Outdoor lighting outlets: GFCI on lighting circuits in wet areas
GFCI Outlet vs GFCI Breaker
GFCI Outlet
- • Protects that outlet and downstream outlets
- • Test/reset buttons on the outlet
- • Easier to test and reset
- • $15-25 for the device
- • Best for accessible locations
GFCI Breaker
- • Protects entire circuit from the panel
- • Test/reset at the breaker panel
- • Better for inaccessible outlets
- • $40-80 for the breaker
- • Protects outdoor/garage circuits well
Why We Can't Quote GFCI Work Remotely
GFCI installation complexity varies widely based on:
- • Wiring configuration (2-wire vs 3-wire)
- • Box size and fill capacity
- • Whether circuits are daisy-chained
- • Panel space for GFCI breakers
- • Age and condition of existing wiring
What looks like a simple outlet swap might reveal aluminum wiring or insufficient box space.
Signs Your GFCI Needs Replacement
- Won't trip when TEST button is pressed
- Trips frequently without apparent cause
- Won't stay reset
- Outlet is over 10-15 years old
- Burn marks or discoloration
Related Resources
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Schedule AssessmentMissing GFCI Protection in Your Home?
GFCI outlets are your first line of defense against electrocution in wet areas. If your bathrooms, kitchen, or garage lack GFCI protection, it is time for an upgrade. Couillard Electric serves Sheboygan County, Ozaukee County, Washington County, and surrounding SE Wisconsin communities.