210.8 (A) (6) GFCI protection for personnel...Kitchens

[77401]

Isn't it time we re-address this issue?
6' rule should apply. with exceptions?
Hell, increase it to 10 foot with no exceptions. 10 foot measured in any & every direction except for fixed in place appliances.

Many of the custom homes here have 1000 sqft kitchens.
Its hard to comprehend the reason to have counter top GFCI receptacles 15' or more away from any sinks.

I remember when the 6' rule was removed. the argument from developers, contractors, Inspectors was, in a small studio style apartment, the counter top receptacles adjacent(across from) to the sink, but within 6 feet, did not need GFCI protection as appliances would not drop off the counter & land in the sink unless it could bounce.

 

[iwire]

Why?

What is the hardship caused by using GFCIs?

Are you going to say the builders of a custom home with a 1000 sq ft kitchen can not afford GFCIs?

I would be very surprised if we see a loosening of the GFCI requirements.

 

[77401]

Hardship? None.
Its actually a service call money maker for me when the Homeowner can't find the GFCI to reset.

Now on the same hand ....Let me ask you ... WHat is the benefit?
With that thought, why not GFCI protect the dining room & family room too?
Since they are all within sight of the Kitchen, in the new McMansions.

 

[Pierre C Belarge]

Typically, food preparation is performed in the kitchen with electric equipment. The food preparation may involve liquids or water away from the sink. Pretty simple concept.

 

[iwire]

Now on the same hand ....Let me ask you ... WHat is the benefit?

Given the high number of homes built I do not think it is a stretch to say it will save a life.

With that thought, why not GFCI protect the dining room & family room too?

It will not surprise me at all if we get there in a few code cycles.

As it is today ALL 120 volt 15 and 20 amp receptacle in non dwelling kitchens are required to be GFCI protected with no exceptions.

GFCIs are now required for all vending machines regardless of location.

I just don't see a reason not to use GFCIs.

 

[charlie b]

With that thought, why not GFCI protect the dining room & family room too?

It will not surprise me at all if we get there in a few code cycles.

I predict that it will happen one cycle after they start requiring AFCI protection in those rooms. :wink: :lol:

 

[77401]

You know, this is all just good conversation.
If I don't get at least one call a week or more to reset GFCI's.
I can't wait for the AFCI's to get more coverage.
I can see trading in my carrera for a Turbo soon!


But is any of this really necessary?

I remember, long time ago, open Pilot lights on appliances & open flame gas heaters hooked to a rubber hose & a wall outlet. Now these are all gone & everyone has to have a CO2 detector?

But then I can also remember leaded gasoline.
None of that was bad, as I still have my memory. HA!