GFI/GFCI Outlets: Everything You Need to Know

Looking for a GFI/GFCI outlet? You’re in luck! We offer the Docking Drawer Blade (1514-150) outlet with GFCI, but if your home’s electrical plan already has GFCI properties, you may not need this particular outlet. Read on for everything you need to know to select the most suitable outlet for your project.

What’s the difference between GFI and GFCI?

Ground fault interrupters (GFI) and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) are two terms that refer to the same type of circuit breaker. Since the terms are interchangeable, we'll stick with using "GFCI" for the purpose of this explainer.

Where is GFCI needed, and why?

A GFCI circuit breaker is required in bathrooms where water is present. If water comes in contact with the electrical current, the breaker will trip and automatically shut off power to the outlet. 

Will my Docking Drawer already have GFCI properties?

There are 3 ways that GFCI properties may carry to your in-drawer outlet, without requiring you to purchase a GFCI configured Docking Drawer outlet. (Always verify with your electrician or by self-testing)

1. GFCI From the Breaker Panel: Your home may have a GFCI breaker in the main panel that serves the Docking Drawer outlet (and most likely other outlets in the room, as well).
2. GFCI In Series: The Docking Drawer outlet plugs into a standard outlet that is daisy chained from another GFCI outlet mounted somewhere else in the room. 
3. GFCI Direct Connection - Your Docking Drawer can plug directly into a GFCI outlet in the cabinet. Note: Reaching behind the drawers to press the GFI button if the outlet trips can be tricky. And if you're installing the outlet for a customer, it's possible that they won't know the outlet behind the drawer is a GFCI and could be left searching for the reset.

Which outlet will be best for my project?

If you’ve determined you do not need a GFI outlet (which is typically the case), check out the wide variety of outlet configurations available with our top-selling 15 amp Blade Series in-drawer outlets. We also have a 20 amp Docking Drawer Blade outlet, for instances where 20 amps are required. In addition to AC ports, you’ll have to option to select configurations that feature USB-A and USB-C (PD) ports, which are growing in popularity in bathroom settings for their ability to directly connect toothbrushes, trimmers and more.

If you’ve determined you do need a GFI configuration, the 15 amp Docking Drawer Blade outlet with GFCI (1514-150) is probably the best choice. We also have a 20 amp Docking Drawer Blade outlet, for instances where 20 amps are required.

Still have questions? Contact our team directly by phone, email, live chat, or text message.