Overview

Receptacles must be replaced when damaged to ensure uninterrupted power supply to the various devices they serve. The overall replacement strategies vary depending on the type and rating of the receptacle, as outlined in Section 406.4(D) of NEC 2020. However, these provisions did not advocate for the standard manufacturing of GFCI-protected receptacles and failed to address the replacement of GFPE-protected receptacles altogether, leading to confusion and non-standard practices in their implementation. NEC 2023 introduced text to subsection 406.4(D)(3) to list and standardize GFCI-protected receptacles, and added a new subsection 406.4(D)(8), which now mandates GFPE-protected receptacles to be replaced with other GFPE-protected receptacles.

Applying the 2023 Code

Over time, receptacles can deteriorate, becoming worn, damaged, or outdated. It is crucial to promptly replace such receptacles to minimize the risk of electrical hazards such as shocks, fires, or equipment malfunctions. Regular replacement not only maintains a safe and reliable electrical system but also ensures secure and uninterrupted electrical connections. To improve reliability and reduce the need for frequent replacements, modern receptacles are equipped with specialized protection schemes and devices such as Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) or Ground Fault Protection of Equipment (GFPE). These devices regulate the flow of electricity into the branch circuit of the protected receptacle outlet and disconnect it in case of ground faults. However, these features were not fully integrated into NEC 2020, leading to confusion and inconsistent practices in their implementation. In NEC 2023, two changes were made to Section 406.4(D). First, subsection 406.4(D)(3) was revised to list and standardize GFCI-protected receptacles. Second, a new subsection, 406.4(D)(8), was added to ensure that GFPE-protected receptacles are replaced only with other GFPE-protected receptacles. These changes aim to establish consistent and clear safety measures, promoting better electrical practices.

What’s New for the 2023 NEC?

2020 NEC

(3) Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection

1. Ground-fault circuit-interrupter protected receptacles shall be provided where replacements are made at receptacle outlets that are required to be so protected elsewhere in this Code.
2. No reference to Ground Fault Protection of Equipment can be found in NEC 2020.

2023 NEC

(3) Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection
Ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for receptacles shall be provided where replacements are made at receptacle outlets that are required to be so protected elsewhere in this Code. Ground-fault circuit interrupters shall be listed.

(8) Ground-Fault Protection of Equipment (GFPE)
Receptacles shall be provided with GFPE where replacements are made at receptacle outlets that are required to be so protected elsewhere in this Code.