Is GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) Required for Bathrooms?

A Ground Fault Circuit interrupter is required for all wet areas.

NEC (National Electrical Code) defines GFCI as: “A device intended for the protection of personnel that functions to de-energize a circuit or portion thereof within an established period of time when a current to ground exceeds some predetermined value that is less than that required to operate the over-current protective device of the supply circuit.”

Circuit Monitoring Balance of Current

This circuit is a safety feature that monitors the balance of current between hot and neutral. When an imbalance is detected, the circuit in the thermostat or on the breaker trips, instantly stopping any current from flowing through the floor heating cables. Per the NEC, GFCI is required for all wet areas.

Should I Use a GFCI Breaker?

Thermostats with the internal GFCI, including the Warmup 4iE and WUDG, fulfill this requirement. If a non-GFCI thermostat like our Tempo thermostat is being used, a GFCI breaker is required.

Consult with your local electrician to ensure your installation is properly protected and meets National and Local Electrical Code.

It is important that you test your Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter once a month to make sure it functions correctly.

Warmup Tip: If you are testing the circuit interrupter on your thermostat, make sure heat is currently running before pushing the test button. If floor is not activated when the button is pressed, the circuit interrupter will not trip.