What are GFCI outlets? Plus 5 household items you should never plug into one

While GFCI outlets offer reliable protection compared with standard outlets, they aren’t meant for every type of electrical device. Some items should never be plugged into a GFCI, as they could malfunction or trip the circuit unnecessarily, leading to power disruptions or unsafe situations. Below is a list of devices not suited for GFCIs.

1. Devices with a “high inrush” current

Appliances likerefrigerators,freezers,air conditioner units, andpower toolsrequire a serious initial burst of electricity when powered on. Yes, even though refrigerators are almost always located in kitchens, the counterintuitive truth is that they can cause the GFCI to trip because of the large initial surge of current, even if there is no actual fault. This is known as “nuisance tripping,” and it is aptly named. Don’t risk spoiling a fridge full of foods by plugging it into a GFCI.

2. Outdoor equipment

Similarly, outdoor equipment such aselectric lawnmowersorpressure washersshould ideally be plugged into a dedicated outdoor outlet. While GFCIs are designed for outdoor use to reduce shock hazards, high-powered equipment can cause the GFCI to trip if it draws too much current at one time.

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3. High-powered appliances

Appliances that use significant power, such asspace heaters,microwave ovens, orvacuum cleaners, can cause a GFCI outlet to trip, especially if they are used on a circuit with high loads. These appliances could create a situation where the GFCI trips frequently (more nuisance tripping).

4. Surge protectors or power strips

Somepower stripsandsurge protectors, particularly those with multiple plugs for high-powered devices, could cause the GFCI outlet to trip due to the combined electrical load. A sudden power surge or imbalance could cause the GFCI to trip unexpectedly, defeating the GFCI outlet’s purpose and causing repeated circuit tripping.

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5. Medical equipment

Medical equipment likeCPAP machinesandoxygen concentratorsrequire continuous, uninterrupted power, so we advise plugging these vital devices into conventional outlets, not GFCIs. Some medical devices have sensitive circuitry, and the GFCI may trip unnecessarily, causing a loss of power to life-sustaining equipment.

Bonus. Sump pumps

While theNational Electrical Code (NEC)specifically mandates that new construction includes GFCIs in basements, there is another ironic exclusion among the list:sump pumps. Sump pumps are designed to prevent flooding, but if the GFCI trips and cuts off its power, your basement might end up under several inches of water.