How many gfci outlets can you have on one circuit?

Answer 1

This question requires answering by a VERY knowledgable electrician, or an electrical engineer. I am neither, but until the right answer comes along, I will attempt to provide some information which hopefully will allow a better understanding of the issues involved. A GFCI [ground fault circuit interrupter] is much different from, although similar to, a circuit breaker. The DIFFERENCE is WHAT they are designed to detect and react to. The purpose of a fuse or circuit breaker is to detect excess or MASSIVE current flow [ie. a SHORT CIRCUIT, a direct short to ground], and then very quickly turn off the electrical current to the circuit, in order TO PREVENT a FIRE. This is the only thing the breaker is designed and intended to do. This limited capability will not prevent a person from being electrocuted when a fault occurs within an electrical device, if the current flow happens to be low. Voltage and current faults which can kill a person usually will not be detected by a circuit breaker. A ground fault circuit interrupter [GFCI], on the other hand, is designed to, and will, detect those low level currents which can kill a person, BUT which are not great enough to trip a breaker. When a GFCI detects potentially dangerous current it, like a breaker, trips in order to open the circuit. Now as to WHY, when you placed two GFCIs in series [one in the breaker panel feeding one in an electrical receptacle], the first GFCI tripped when the second GFCI is "tested." When you press the TEST BUTTON on a GFCI it puts a high resistance load on the circuit, which simulates a "small" ground fault, and I think both GFCIs "see" the same fault and react as designed and intended. Again, a true professional should "bless" my comments, but I think that there is no danger or hazard in placing two GFCIs in series. On the contrary, I think there is redundant capability in the pairing, with the first GFCI functioning with, and as a backup to, the second. I suggest you contact your local electrial inspection department regarding what the code(s) say about this issue, and also call the tech support people at the 800 number on the packaging for the GFCIs. Another source of information is a local electrical engineer, if you know someone who can help you make contact. Until a more informed answer comes along, I hope this helps you to understand the issues involved.

Answer 2

You can have multiple GFCI outlets on one circuit; it is common to have them daisy-chained in a series. However, it is recommended to consult with a licensed electrician to ensure proper wiring and compliance with local electrical codes.

Answer 3

One is enough. If you have a 20 amp GFI for a 20 amp ckt. The load on any number of outlets being protected by the GFI that exceeds the 20 amp ckt. capacity should be on a separate 20 amp ckt. with its own GFI protection.

Answer 4

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters come in two basic types. The circuit breaker in your electric panel and as an outlet. In both cases only one GFCI should protect a circuit. Have no idea what you have in mind since a GFCI is not typically defined as a switch and you only need a single GFCI to protect circuit at the rating of the GFCI.

Answer 5

yes