GFCI Circuit Breaker vs GFCI Receptacle: What's the difference?

You are protected against electric shocks that could happen at malfunctioning electronics by the GFCI breaker and the GFCI breaker. They differ in how they carry out this protection.

The breaker protects the outlets in a circuit, and the outlets and the receptacles are protected by the receptacles. The GFCI breakers can be installed in a single or several locations, protecting more downstream outlets than a receptacle while being less expensive initially.

The article details the differences between GFCI breakers and GFCI outlets, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages and guiding you toward making the best decision at the right time.

Table of Contents

What Is a GFCI Receptacle?

A GFCI receptacle can be identified by its outside appearance. An electrical outlet’s built-in GFCI usually features a red (or occasionally a white) reset button on the faceplate. The outlet tracks how much energy is being put into it when in use. The receptacle is built to trip the circuit in a split second if it detects any electrical imbalance or overload.

GFCI receptacles are typically utilized instead of a standard outlet receptacle to provide safety for a single outlet site. GFCI outlets can be wired in two distinct ways to offer two levels of security.

GFCI protection is only provided at one outlet with single-location protection. The first GFCI outlet and every outlet downstream, including ordinary outlets, are safeguarded by multiple-location wiring.

The part of the circuit between it and the main service panel is not protected, though. For instance, the first three outlets on a circuit with seven outlets won’t be covered if the GFCI outlet wired for multiple-location protection is the fourth outlet.

While it is usually easier to reset a receptacle than travel to the service panel to do so, keep in mind that if you construct a circuit for numerous locations of protection from a single GFCI receptacle, the receptacle controls everything downstream. If there is a wiring problem farther along, you will need to go back and locate the GFCI outlet to reset it.

What Is a GFCI Circuit Breaker?

Circuit breakers with GFCI protection cover the whole circuit. Circuit breakers with GFCIs are easy to use: One can add GFCI protection to an entire circuit by putting one in the service panel (breaker box), which protects the wiring and all the electronics and appliances connected to the circuit. Dual function GFCI or AFCI circuit breakers can be utilized when additional arc-fault circuit interrupter protection is required, which is a scenario that is becoming more frequent.

When all outlets on a circuit need to be protected, GFCI circuit breakers are a more sensible choice. Consider installing a circuit of outlets for a large outdoor patio or a garage workshop. Given that every one of these outlets needs GFCI protection, it would be more cost-effective to connect the circuit with a GFCI breaker to protect every device on it. But doing this is not always the more affordable choice because GFCI breakers can be expensive. As an alternative, you might spend less money installing a GFCI outlet at the first outlet on the circuit, offering the same level of protection.

What Sets GFCI Receptacles Apart from GFCI Breakers?

GFCIs or ground fault circuit interrupters protect the home and various outdoor areas. When an established circuit’s electric current fails, a GFCI circuit receptacle helps to prevent ground fault shock. A water source or the ground proximity to the outlet is highly beneficial. Offering protection is the goal of both GFCI circuit breakers and GFCI outlets. Their capabilities and restrictions apply, though.

Functionality

A GFCI receptacle can be identified by the red or white reset button and how it plugs into the electrical socket. A GFCI outlet can trip the circuit immediately in the event of a potential overload because it can gauge the energy flow.

It is possible to install a GFCI receptacle rather than a regular outlet to ensure that there will be optimum protection. You can choose from various locations when using a GFCI receptacle, which is a benefit. The gap left between the primary service panel and the GFCI outlet will not be protected, which is a drawback.

It’s important to remember that a GFCI circuit breaker can shield the entire circuit. Complete GFCI protection for wiring, appliances, and other devices can be provided by installing a breaker. To provide AFCI protection, you can even locate models with dual-function circuit breakers.

Knowing that the entire circuit is protected, you can have peace of mind. It’s also possible to install a receptacle wire with a GFCI circuit breaker, which is a huge benefit. You can effectively safeguard the entire circuit by doing this.

Usage

You must know that the GFCI outlet cannot be installed behind furniture or appliances. The primary justification is that you must reset the location of the receptacle trips. If ever you find that these locations need protection, you might choose GFCI breakers. When there is any tripping, all you have to do is visit the service panel to reset.

You may quickly replace or repair them with GFCI receptacles. However, you will need to locate the service panel, which can be challenging for some if there is a problem with the GFCI circuit breaker.

You will need to consider this size when it comes to usage. Comparing GFCI receptacles to regular ones, you’ll see that they’re typically larger. You must search for the wall box because it may affect the available area. It will be preferable to use a GFCI circuit breaker for this reason.

Let’s move on to the installation portion now. A GFCI outlet will make installation simple. The drawback is that you must put it in several places, increasing costs. Since a GFCI breaker is located inside the service panel, expert installation is required.

Cost

Another crucial factor that you must constantly take into account is the price. You will pay more than $40 for a GFCI breaker, which is a fair price. A GFCI outlet typically costs roughly $15. It will be advisable to get a GFCI breaker if cost is not an issue.

Requirements

Local electrical codes contain specific criteria as per the NEC. In some places, these codes differ from national electrical codes and have special regulations. Before installing, you must always check with the neighborhood building code office. You will know if a GFCI outlet is required for a breaker based on these codes.

Swimming pools, Basements, utility rooms, spas, and other outside areas require the installation of receptacles. You cannot put it behind furniture, so keep that in mind. Installation behind appliances, freezers, or refrigerators is also prohibited.

Breakers must be put in places that are simple to service. Electrical panels and sub-panels both allow its installation. Even a GFCI disconnect is necessary for spas. However, clothing closets and bathrooms are not allowed to have breakers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there is no obvious winner in the debate between GFCI circuit breakers and GFCI outlets. The decision to employ a GFCI breaker or GFCI outlet ultimately rests in your hands and depends on your unique needs.

For more details or purchase of GFCI breakers or GFCI receptacles, kindly contact us at ICRFQ. We manufacture the best electrical components in China.