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Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Question:

Re: CQD answer published Friday, August 5, 2016 -GFCI for Basement Receptacles

Regarding the question about eliminating GFCI protection on a basement sump pump; there are other ways to accomplish this without violating the NEC. Since GFCI protection is required only on 15 or 20 amp 125 volt Receptacles, a 240 volt sump pump would not require GFCI protection.  Also since protection is only required on receptacles a sump pump that is designed for hard-wiring would not require GFCI protection. I would caution against just cutting the cord from a cord and plug connected pump as the pump is listed as cord and plug connected and the cord and plug usually serves as the required disconnect.

Don Haskin

A

Answer:

Hey Don thanks for your comment. Yes, there are ways to get around using GFCI protection but that might not be the best choice. Stay tuned for a different viewpoint that will be shared tomorrow. Cutting off an attachment plug and direct wiring the pump would only be allowed if the manufactures instructions stated that as part of the listing as stated in 110.3(B).

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