GFCI outlets should be installed in any potentially wet or damp areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, outdoors, basements, garages and workshops. Damp areas can make you prone to dangerous electric shock but using a GFCI outlet can greatly reduce your risk of injury.

Where are GFCI outlets not installed?

Older homes are not required to have GFCI outlets unless the wiring is being updated, but its a good idea to install them anyway. The NEC requires GFCIs on all exterior and bathroom receptacles (another term for outlets). GFCIs are also required on all receptacles serving kitchen countertops.

Whats the difference between a GFI and a GFCI breaker?

There is actually no difference at all. A common conversation when discussing receptacles may be referring to a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) as simply a ground fault interrupter (GFI). They are generally the exact same thing.