New homes will commonly have the latest fixtures and that includes GFCI outlets.
However, what about older homes that came with traditional outlets? Are GFCI outlets required in older homes?
GFCI outlets are not required in older homes. However, it’s highly recommended to install GFCI outlets with the correct wiring in the bathrooms and kitchen. In comparison, all new homes require GFCI outlets according to the building code.
If you are looking to upgrade your electrical outlets around the home then this is the best route to take.
You are going to see appropriate results and the value of your property will increase too. These are seen as being the “safer” outlets and will yield tremendous results as soon as they are set up.
It’s best to speak to a qualified electrician to find out what your options are. This includes the cost of installing new wiring for the GFCI outlets to be compatible.
Go through these details and also take the time to understand the benefits of GFCI outlets for older homes.
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Best GFCI Outlet (EDITOR’S CHOICE)
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Benefits Of GFCI Outlets For Older Homes
1. Prevents Electrical Fires
When it comes to GFCI requirements, it’s important to understand why these outlets are common in modern homes.
It comes down to protection and that is why they have become the gold standard now.
While older homes that were made before 1971 don’t have these outlets, you will still appreciate the added protection. This is the type of protection that will yield impressive results.
It starts with the prevention of electrical fires.
When there is a power surge, it can cause wires to burn. This will lead to preventable damage across the entire circuit.
While some situations will lead to an outlet burning out or wires needing replacing, it can be worse.
It can get to a scenario where there is an electrical fire behind the wall that begins to spread. To prevent this, the GFCI outlet knows when to stop working as soon as there is a surge.
2. Prevents Shocks
It is also a good option for those who are worried about electrical shocks.
Older outlets tend to age poorly, which means there is an increased risk of getting an electrical shock. This is a scenario you are not going to want to deal with when it comes to staying safe.
If there are kids and/or pets in the house, this becomes doubly important.
The GFCI outlet is going to act as a simple safety net that will ensure electrical shocks are not as big of a risk.
3. Compliant With Latest Building Code
The building code was updated in recent years.
This has been seen in various states and countries. The reason comes down to efficiency, safety, and overall quality.
GFCI outlets are the gold standard, which means you will want to consider them for your aging home too.
If not, you will not be in line with the latest building code even if you are not required to. There is a purpose behind these GFCI outlets, especially in rooms such as bathrooms and kitchens.
It’s best to take the time to understand your options beforehand. This includes assessing which outlets work best for your home.
4. Longer-Lasting
It is common to want to go with outlets that are going to last a long time.
There is nothing worse than changing the wiring and setting up outlets only for them to burn out or not work.
This is not the case with GFCI outlets.
They are known to last a lot longer and will not break down as easily. This adds value to those who want to invest in outlets that are going to deliver value and not age rapidly.
5. Prevents Damage To Electronics Or Connected Devices
If you are looking to set up various electronics and connect them to the electrical circuit, there is a lingering concern about overloading.
This can create a situation where those electronics burn out.
If you don’t want that to happen, you will need to set up GFCI outlets. These are going to stop over-surging and will ensure the electronics are going to stay safe.
Final Thoughts
Are GFCI outlets required in older homes?
GFCI outlets are not required in older homes. It is highly recommended to consider upgrading the home’s wiring and adding GFCI outlets in the bathroom and kitchen.
This is an important detail to think about when you want to upgrade the home’s electrical circuit.
Go with what works best in your home. If that means upgrading to GFCI outlets across the board then that is what you have to do.
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