GFCI on refrigerator outlet

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alcon192

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I have always used a dedicated line for refrigerator outlets (that way something else does not cause the refrigerator to be turned off) the way I read the new code I have to GFCI my refrigerator outlet so if I have it by its self it would be very difficult to test monthly or reset. I really to not like putting the refrigerator with counter outlets but now it looks like I have no other choice. Does anyone have other options ?
 
It is still not a bad idea to run a separate circuit. You dont have to put it on the sabc just put a gfci receptacle in it is cheaper or you could mount a dead front gfci and gang it with the switches or put it where it is convenient to reset and feed out to the fridge.
 
alcon192 said:
I have always used a dedicated line for refrigerator outlets (that way something else does not cause the refrigerator to be turned off) the way I read the new code I have to GFCI my refrigerator outlet so if I have it by its self it would be very difficult to test monthly or reset. I really to not like putting the refrigerator with counter outlets but now it looks like I have no other choice. Does anyone have other options ?
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The only changes in the 2008 NEC (that I could find) for refridgerators are:

210.8(B)(2) Other Than Dwelling Units

They have changed or added, indicated by the grey highlite, the word 'kitchen'. This also applies to outisde receptacles. 210.8(B)(4)

And like stickboy1375 suggests, put it on a GFCI breaker. If required.

I myself prefer to put it on a seperate circuit.
 
mdshunk said:
Don't be so sure.

What if it's next to a laundry sink?

What if it's in a commercial kitchen?
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2008 NEC 210.8(A)(7) GFCI is required if within 6' of the outside edge of sink

2008 NEC 210.8(B)(2) Other than dwelling unit - required. Not sure if there are other requirements. Still looking.
 
Exception No.2 to 210.52(B)(1) says the Refrigeration equipment is exempt from GFIC requirement of 210.8 .... This in the 2008 workbook p.99
 
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guschash said:
Exception No.2 to 210.52(B)(1) says the Refrigeration equipment is exempt from GFIC requirement.
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That really depends on the code cycle you are under. The exceptions have been removed in the 2008 NEC.

Edit; I just noticed that you said 210.52, 210.52 has noting to do with GFCI requirements at all.
 
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alcon192 said:
I have always used a dedicated line for refrigerator outlets (that way something else does not cause the refrigerator to be turned off) the way I read the new code I have to GFCI my refrigerator outlet so if I have it by its self it would be very difficult to test monthly or reset. I really to not like putting the refrigerator with counter outlets but now it looks like I have no other choice. Does anyone have other options ?
Click to expand...

First off is this refrigerator located?

A dwelling unit, a non-dwelling unit, garage, basement etc. the rules are different.

Dwelling Unit Kitchen

210.(A)(6)

Only the receptacles that serve the counter top must be GFCI protected, the receptacle located behind the refrigerator is not intended to serve the counters and does not require GFCI protection

Non-Dwelling Unit Kitchen

210.8(B)(2)

ALL 120 volt 15 and 20 amp receptacles must be GFCI protected, there are NO exceptions to this rule.

Keep in mind that in 210.8(B)(2) the NEC defines what commercial and institutional kitchens are, be sure to apply that correctly.
 
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