Can you run a washing machine on a GFCI outlet?

Answer: Yes, it does (in a dwelling), but interestingly enough- not because the NEC says that it does- specifically. First: Always, refer to the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

Why does my washing machine keep tripping the GFCI outlet?





To narrow this problem down, there are three places that could be causing the GFCI to trip, a malfunction in the washing machine, a problem with the downstream wiring (aka load side of the GFCI), or the GFCI outlet itself.

Does a washing machine outlet have to be GFCI protected?

There is no specific requirement in the NEC for the washing machine itself to have GFCI protection. Section 210.52(F) requires a receptacle outlet to be installed for the laundry area and it must be supplied by a 20-ampere branch circuit in accordance with 210.11(C)(2).

Should I replace my GFCI outlet?

Long Lifespan. A GFCI outlet can last you between 15 and 25 years when installed and located correctly. Occasionally, GFCI outlets can give out after five years; how often you use your outlet could help determine its life expectancy. Either way, once your GFCI stops working well, it’s important to replace it.

Does a washing machine need a 15 or 20-amp outlet?

Your laundry room should have a dedicated circuit of at least 20 amps. If you have a gas dryer, both your washing machine and gas dryer may be plugged into the same outlet. If you have an electric dryer, it will need its own dedicated 20-amp, 220-volt circuit.

How often should I replace GFCI outlets?





about 15 to 25 years

Most GFCI outlets will last for about 15 to 25 years, but in certain circumstances, they can fail after 5 years. Here a few common signs that it’s time to replace your electrical outlets.

Can I replace a GFCI outlet myself?

You can replace almost any electrical outlet with a GFCI outlet. Correctly wired GFCIs will also protect other outlets on the same circuit. While it’s common to find GFCI outlets in bathrooms and kitchens, there are GFCI outlet requirements.

How much does it cost to replace a GFCI outlet?

Expect to pay an average of $210 to install a GFCI outlet. The typical range is between $130 and $300. A GFCI outlet costs between $7 and $25 each. The number of outlets needed is the biggest factor in the total price.

Do laundry room outlets need to be GFCI?



The NEC requires GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) protection for all standard receptacles serving laundry areas. This includes the 20-amp designated receptacle for the washer (and gas dryer, as applicable) and any general-use receptacles. GFCI protection is not required for a 30-amp electric dryer receptacle.

Should a washing machine be on its own breaker?

That beautiful washing machine needs to be on a 120-volt 15 or 20-amp receptacle, on its own circuit. The outlet should be placed out of reach and directly behind the machine.

Do I need a special outlet for a washing machine?

Washer –Washing machines are large appliances that do not require customized electrical hookups, they simply need a 120 volt outlet that can take 3 prongs.

What kind of outlet do I need for a washer and dryer?



Washing machines do not typically need special electrical hookups, but some large household appliances do require 240-V outlets. Most electric stoves and dryers and some washing machines require the higher voltage to operate. Most washing machines will run on ordinary 120-V household outlets.

Can a washing machine run on a 15 amp circuit?

Because of that, all 120V 15 Amp devices are normally designed to work properly in a 120V 15 Amp or 120V 20 Amp circuit. This is true for appliances like a washing machine but even for something as small as a cell phone charger that actually uses < 1 Amp.

Can I use a 30 amp breaker for a washing machine?

The right size breaker for washer
To have your home protected, you will need a circuit breaker size of 20 Amps. This sizing accords to the National Electrical Code (NEC) for you to have a 120-volt service in your laundry room protected by a 20A individual designated circuit breaker.

How many amps does a typical washing machine pull?

A typical clothes washer uses about 500 watts of power. The average washing machine is rated at around 15 amps. If you have a 20-amp circuit, you’ll be able to run multiple appliances at the same time without overloading the circuit.