GFCI question

[MEDTECH]

My kitchen GFCI needs to be replaced as it is no longer working. I have a spare Leviton 20 amp GFCI, Model N7899 that I will use as a replacement. But, on the back of the new GFCI, it says do not use in damp or wet locations. Does that mean not to use outdoors and uncovered? This is a replacement for a 20 amp model so the specs are correct. I will try to attach a pic of the back of the GFCI. Thanks, as always

 

[dave*99]

The new GFCI (N7899) will work in your kitchen. For outdoor use, you would look for a unit with a WR (weather resistant) marking.

Of course before they made units with a WR marking, one would use the N7899 (in a weather resistant enclosure). And now that they make a WR unit, you still need a weather resistant enclosure.

WR means they have taken steps to protect the internals of the GFCI from moisture.

The latest units you would buy for your kitchen (current NEC code requirements) would be marked TR, tamper resistant.

 

[MEDTECH]

Thanks so much for clarifying. Just swapped the unit and still not working so I will check the 2 additional outlets downstream. Have power to the GFCI but not the GFCI outlets or the 2 outlets downstream themselves. Again, appreciate your reply

 

[Bert_]

WR means they have taken steps to protect the internals of the GFCI from moisture.

My sources have told me the only difference between a standard and a weather resistant receptacle is it the plastic is sunlight resistant. It makes sense since its requirement came up shortly after in use covers began being required. Many of the in use covers are clear plastic.

 

[rlitman]

My sources have told me the only difference between a standard and a weather resistant receptacle is it the plastic is sunlight resistant. It makes sense since its requirement came up shortly after in use covers began being required. Many of the in use covers are clear plastic.

Not the only difference. The screws on a normal GFI will be brass. On the WR version, the brass will be plated to resist corrosion. I haven't looked inside, but I suspect that the same plating is used on the blade clamps.

 

[Norcal]

Most screws are plated steel, brass is much more corrosion resistant.

 

[MEDTECH]

Turns out the spare GFCI I had was shot, too. Got it from my dad when I cleaned out his place after he passed away. Looked brand new but he never threw anything away. Long story short, installed BRAND NEW GFCI and all is good. Thanks to all who replied

 

[dave*99]

My sources have told me the only difference between a standard and a weather resistant receptacle is it the plastic is sunlight resistant. It makes sense since its requirement came up shortly after in use covers began being required. Many of the in use covers are clear plastic.

Leviton advertises the benefits of their WR GFCI's as follows:

Weather-Resistant Models
Designed for wet and damp locations to meet the requirements
of NEC Section 406.8
Stainless steel strap and screws
Conformal coated PC board to protect critical components
from moisture
Cold impact resistant face and buttons
UV stabilized plastics

 

[rlitman]

Leviton advertises the benefits of their WR GFCI's as follows:

Weather-Resistant Models
Designed for wet and damp locations to meet the requirements
of NEC Section 406.8
Stainless steel strap and screws
Conformal coated PC board to protect critical components
from moisture
Cold impact resistant face and buttons
UV stabilized plastics

Wow, they went further than I expected. Thanks for the info.