Are all 125V, 20A receptacles in bathrooms required to have ground-fault circuit interrupter protection?

The correct response is that all 125V, 20A receptacles in bathrooms are indeed required to have ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection. This requirement is established by the National Electrical Code (NEC), which mandates that GFCI protection be provided for receptacles in areas of the home where water is present, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor locations.

The primary purpose of GFCI protection is to safeguard against electrical shock that can occur when appliances and devices are used in proximity to water. Since bathrooms are high-risk areas for electrical accidents due to the potential for water exposure, GFCIs are designed to cut off electric power in the event of a ground fault, thereby enhancing safety.

In new constructions as well as older buildings undergo renovations or updates to electrical systems, the installation of GFCI-protected receptacles is essential for compliance with current safety standards. Therefore, it’s critical for both new and existing installations in bathroom areas to follow this guideline to ensure the safety of individuals using electrical devices in these environments.