Sump pumps on GFCI

[rojay]

Since a receptacle feeding a sump pump in an unfinished basement requires GFCI protection, I’ve seen most contractors in the area using a duplex 15 amp GFCI to satisfy the requirement.

I believe the code considers this a multi-outlet branch circuit, and I’m wondering if this may be a violation of 210.23a2 depending on the size of the pump involved.

For instance, if we have a 1/2 HP 120 volt sump, Table 430.248 puts the FLC at 9.8 amps- over 50% of a 15 amp circuit.

I don’t know how common a 120 volt sump over 1/2hp is but it looks like anything larger than that puts us beyond 50% of a 20 amp circuit. Are single GFCI receps or standard single receps and GFCI breakers required in these cases?

Is my thinking off on this?

 

[infinity]

I guess it depends on how you interpret the phrase "cord-and-plug-connected utilization equipment not fastened in place" when there is nothing plugged into the other half of the duplex. Around here we still use single receptacles with no GFCI protection for sump pumps.

210.23(A)(2) Utilization Equipment Fastened in Place. The total
rating of utilization equipment fastened in place, other than
luminaires, shall not exceed 50 percent of the branch-
circuit ampere rating where lighting units, cord-and-plug-
connected utilization equipment not fastened in place, or
both, are also supplied.

 

[kwired]

Strict enforcement - it is a violation. Many will let this go, but there probably is some that won't.

 

[rojay]

I guess it depends on how you interpret the phrase "cord-and-plug-connected utilization equipment not fastened in place" when there is nothing plugged into the other half of the duplex.

Agreed, that it’s a non-issue if nothing is plugged into the other side of the recep.
My concern was based on the thought that when most homeowners see an open spot to plug in- they’re going to. I can’t think of too many portable items in the basement they might be plugging in that wouldn’t fall under the category of utilization equipment.