NEC® Changes · 2020 NEC®

210.8 GFCI protection

RevisedChanged in the 2020 NEC® (from the 2017 NEC®)· Updated October 24, 2026

What changed in 210.8

GFCI now covers 250-volt dwelling receptacles, all basements, more commercial areas, HVAC servicing receptacles and outdoor outlets at homes.

Point by point

  • Dwelling GFCI now covers 125- through 250-volt receptacles on single-phase circuits 150 volts or less to ground, with no amp limit.

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Get the whole breakdown

  • 4 more points on exactly what changed
  • The 2017 rule next to the 2020 rule, side by side
  • Why it changed
  • What to do and check on the job

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This section across NEC® editions

2020 NEC®RevisedYou're here

GFCI now covers 250-volt dwelling receptacles, all basements, more commercial areas, HVAC servicing receptacles and outdoor outlets at homes.

2023 NEC®Revised

GFCI grew again. A listed Class A device is required, every dwelling kitchen receptacle is in, more non-dwelling spots and big appliances were added, and outdoor HVAC got a delay to 2026.

Open the 2023 page →
2026 NEC®Revised

Garages and accessory buildings were split out and expanded, indoor damp and wet spots are listed separately, and the outdoor HVAC rule now goes up to 60 amps and allows a Class C special purpose GFCI.

Open the 2026 page →

More 2020 changes in Article 210

This is a plain-English summary, not the NEC®'s exact wording. Always check the full section in the NEC® edition your area has adopted, plus any local amendments.

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