Is GFCI required for over the range microwave?

[Ross/Kzoo]

On new construction I have a 20 amp outlet in the cabinet above the over the range microwave. Is a GFCI required?

 

[Norcal]

At this time, no.

 

[wyliesdiesels]

Nope but i wouldnt be surprised if code in the future is added to require it for some strange reason...

 

[Stuff]

If you are on the 2014 NEC and within 6' of the sink then technically you need one. I haven't heard of this being enforced, though.

 

[wyliesdiesels]

If you are on the 2014 NEC and within 6' of the sink then technically you need one. I haven't heard of this being enforced, though.

Except for the fact that the outlet is probably inaccessible...

 

[tshetter]

Would using a gfci breaker be easier than a gfci receptacle?

 

[wyliesdiesels]

Define easier?

 

[Slowgsr]

Not exactly, most diyers who don't read the instructions install them wrong
They are nice for keeping splits near the sink ��

 

[tshetter]

Easier to access/reset.

But yea, if it isn't installed properly it's a waste.

 

[wyliesdiesels]

Easier to access/reset.

But yea, if it isn't installed properly it's a waste.

In that case, no. A GFCI receptacle has the buttons right on it so u can reset it right there.

A GFCI breaker is obviously in the panel so u have to walk to the panel and reset it.

 

[Ross/Kzoo]

In that case, no. A GFCI receptacle has the buttons right on it so u can reset it right there.

A GFCI breaker is obviously in the panel so u have to walk to the panel and reset it.

And the breaker is 3-4 times the price of a receptacle.

Thanks for all the responses.

 

[rlitman]

Except for the fact that the outlet is probably inaccessible...

Exactly. I installed a new microwave in my kitchen just last year. The instructions from GE explicitly stated to NOT use any GFCI protecting the dedicated circuit it required.

 

[Milton Shaw]

No but a surge protector might be a good idea. Also don't ever change light bulbs without unplugging the microwave. The lights over the stove top are bad about the glass coming loose from the base and then when you change them the glass twists the wires between the glass and the base and that's a short that destroys the circuit board. Those microwaves always have 120 on the bulb but connect the neutral to turn the bulb on..

 

[Slow_Lane]

We used the breakers when we did our remodel a few years ago. Anything in the bathrooms and kitchen. All lights and outlets, we even did the dining room as we do all the holidays at our home and often need to set up a table with crock pots, coffee maker Ect. More money yes but piece of mind is a good thing. I will also admit that my 4 year asks me at least once a week why you say that all the time poppa, "that's not safe". I just say it's for safety, Then she ask again, so I am probably off the deep end by a degree or two.
.

 

[Mustang51js]

I doubt that the outlet is within 6 feet of sink anyway,only thing special I've ever had to do with a micro outlet is use a single outlet so nothing else can be plugged into it. Your sink would have to be next to the stove which I've never seen or micro above the sink,which I've also never seen in order for outlet to be within 6 feet of sink. Not sure if you plan on running water over the microwave when it's installed over stove and touch it at same time,other than that I see no reason to have it on a gfi

 

[alfredeneuman]

In that case, no. A GFCI receptacle has the buttons right on it so u can reset it right there.

A GFCI breaker is obviously in the panel so u have to walk to the panel and reset it.

And the breaker is 3-4 times the price of a receptacle.

If a GFI is required in an inaccessible place, just use a faceless (without slots) GFI device on the circuit and put it in an accessible location.
They're available for the same price as outlets and don't require a trip to the panel.

 

[BillK]

Those microwaves always have 120 on the bulb but connect the neutral to turn the bulb on..

Definitely not the case on my GE Profile, I just looked at the service manual to be certain before writing this. Not even sure if that would meet UL approval, having a hot contact in a light socket ????

 

[wyliesdiesels]

....Those microwaves always have 120 on the bulb but connect the neutral to turn the bulb on..

Are u sure about that?

I highly doubt the neutral is switched.

In building wiring, code does not permit the switching of the neutral in a circuit unless the ungrounded circuit conductors are switched at the same time.

 

[westom]

I highly doubt the neutral is switched.

I have seen same in some controllers when using scrap controllers as timers for other functions. Surprised me also. But when asking how low voltage electronics can best control that light, then the reason why was obvious.