North Carolina Home Inspector Practice Exam

Where in the kitchen would you not need to install a GFCI receptacle?

1. The refrigerator circuit

2. The stove area

3. The dishwasher outlet

4. The sink area

The correct answer is: The refrigerator circuit

In a kitchen, the installation of Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) receptacles is regulated by the National Electrical Code (NEC), which aims to prevent electrical shock in areas where water is commonly used. GFCI receptacles are required in areas near sinks, such as the sink area, dishwasher outlet, and even within a specified distance from the sink. The refrigerator circuit does not usually require a GFCI receptacle because refrigerators are considered to be devices that are not directly interacted with or near a source of water. Typically, as long as the refrigerator is located away from sinks and water sources, it can be served by a standard receptacle without GFCI protection. The circuits serving the stove area and the dishwasher outlet are required to have GFCI protection due to their proximity to water and the higher risks associated with using these appliances in a wet environment. Thus, the refrigerator circuit is the only area in the kitchen where a GFCI receptacle is not necessary. This distinction helps ensure safe electrical installation practices in the home.