Code Q&A

June 4, 2009

Q. We are being told that we must GFCI protect our receptacle for the washing machine if it is located within 6 ft of the laundry sink.

Mike Holt

Q. We are being told that we must GFCI protect our receptacle for the washing machine if it is located within 6 ft of the laundry sink. Even though we chose to use a single receptacle for the washer, the inspector still won't pass it. Is he correct in his ruling?

A. Your inspector is correct. GFCI protection is required for all 15A and 20A, 125V receptacles located within an arc measurement of 6 ft from the sink [210.8(A)(7)]. This rule applies even if a single receptacle is employed.

About the Author

Mike Holt

Mike Holt is the owner of Mike Holt Enterprises (www.MikeHolt.com), one of the largest electrical publishers in the United States. He earned a master's degree in the Business Administration Program (MBA) from the University of Miami. He earned his reputation as a National Electrical Code (NEC) expert by working his way up through the electrical trade. Formally a construction editor for two different trade publications, Mike started his career as an apprentice electrician and eventually became a master electrician, an electrical inspector, a contractor, and an educator. Mike has taught more than 1,000 classes on 30 different electrical-related subjects — ranging from alarm installations to exam preparation and voltage drop calculations. He continues to produce seminars, videos, books, and online training for the trade as well as contribute monthly Code content to EC&M magazine.