Ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets avoid injuries and save lives by preventing common electrical shocks. The GFCI component monitors the electricity flow in real-time and automatically disables the outlet when it detects an imbalance. This is particularly important for outdoor outlets, as even high humidity can result in dangerous scenarios. Let’s explore everything you need to know about upgrading the outdoor outlets at your Minnesota home with GFCI protection.
Building Codes and Permits
Most state and local building codes use the National Electrical Code (NEC) as a basis. You will likely need a permit to install any outdoor outlets. An electrician will handle acquiring the permit and finalizing it through a code-compliance inspection. While some jurisdictions allow homeowner installations, experts advise against it. Installing an outdoor outlet can be dangerous, especially if there’s moisture and dirt involved.
What About AFCI?
AFCI stands for arc-fault interrupter, and AFCI outlets protect against fires rather than shocks. While there are GFCI-AFCI combination outlets available, they are generally not necessary outdoors. The NEC doesn’t require AFCI protection for outdoor use, and it can actually lead to nuisance tripping due to moisture.
Electrical Panel Considerations
The average household needs a 150- to 200-amp panel, and large households may demand 250 amps or even more. Consider upgrading if you have an older 100-amp panel. If you’re adding new outlets, capacity is a consideration as well. You may need one or more new circuits to accommodate the additional outlets. Your electrician can add them if your panel has the capacity. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to upgrade to a panel that does.
Whole-House Surge Protection
The NEC now requires whole-house surge protection, which many older houses don’t have. Building codes typically won’t require adding that protection just to install new outlets. Still, it is worth considering. A Type 2 surge protection device will protect your entire system from surges that originate within and from without.
Wiring
Another important reason to hire a professional electrician is to ensure you are using the right wiring. The NEC usually requires UF-B cable or other wiring rated for outdoor conditions. UF-B cables resist moisture, heat, and sunlight. If you use indoor wiring instead, it will degrade quickly, and there will be an increased risk of short circuits, fires, and shocks.
Weather-Resistant GFCI Receptacles
Most outdoor outlets are 20 amps, which is necessary for high-draw power tools. While 15-amp outlets are available, most experts recommend against them for outdoor use. The NEC requires weather-rated (WR) outlets for most outdoor applications. That includes gardens, decks, and garages. A WR outlet will resist both moisture and sunlight, and it will have a cover, although those can vary considerably.
In-Use Weatherproof Covers
If you need multiple outlets in a small area, an electrician can install a box to host them. Most standalone WR GFCI outlets come with their own cover, called an in-use or bubble cover. For added protection, you can opt for a double outdoor outlet design. That will protect against a water jet, for instance, while a standard cover may not.
Integrated Surge Protection
Type 3 surge protection is localized, such as a surge protector strip. You can also get outlets with integrated Type 3 surge protection. This can help to protect any devices you may be using on your deck, for instance, such as a laptop.
Integrated Connectivity
Many outdoor outlets now have integrated connections, with USB being the most popular type by far. An integrated USB port lets you easily charge your phone and other devices while outdoors. There are also outlets with Ethernet, FireWire, and many other types of connections.
Smart Capabilities
Many experts recommend smart outdoor outlets, as smart plugs and similar devices aren’t practical. Smart outlets can eliminate phantom loads and even support scheduling. You can also access these outlets remotely, even from within your home or while at work.
Outdoor GFCI Outlet Installation in the Twin Cities Metro Area
Plugz Electric is a residential electrical contractor located in Forest Lake, MN. Our licensed electricians replace and install new outdoor GFCI outlets. We’re also available for electrical inspections, panel upgrades, rewiring, and much more. Call us to schedule an on-site consultation, or book your appointment online via our website.
