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210.8(B)(13) GFCI Protection for Non-Dwelling Aquariums and Bait Wells

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Change Summary

  • The GFCI requirements for receptacles within 6 ft of fish tanks and bit wells.

NEC® Text

Article 210 Branch Circuits Not Over 1000 Volts ac, 1500 Volts dc, Nominal
210.8 Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection for Personnel.
(B) Other Than Dwelling Units.
(13) Aquariums, bait wells, and similar open aquatic vessels or containers, such as tanks or bowls, where receptacles are installed within 1.8 m (6 ft.) from the top inside edge or rim or from the conductive support framing of the vessel or container

Material taken from the National Electric Code. is reprinted with permission from NFPA 70., 2023 edition. National Electrical Code®, Copyright 2022, National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, MA. All rights reserved.

Expert Analysis

A new list item has been added to clarify aquariums, bait wells, and similar open aquatic vessels or containers, such as tanks or bowls, where receptacles are installed within 6 ft (1.8 m) from the top inside edge or rim or from the conductive support framing of the vessel or container, in other than dwelling units, are required to have GFCI protection for personnel. A significant shock and electrocution hazard exists in other than dwelling occupancies where aquariums or live bait wells are located near receptacle outlets. This hazard is very similar to receptacles within 6 ft (1.8 m) of a sink, bathtubs or shower stalls which are all required to be GFCI protected.

Figure 1Leviton Solution

For wet or damp environments Leviton recommends the Weather-Resistant (WR) SmartlockPro GFCI

Available in 15 or 20 Amp, 125 volt, features self-test circuitry and slim design. For Residential/Commercial applications, back and side wired.

  • Weather-resistant with stainless steel strap and screws, cold impact resistant face and button
  • SAFE – Delivers continuous ground fault protection
  • SELF TESTING – Automatically self-tests to ensure it can respond to ground fault
  • SIMPLE – Status indicator light provides simple, intuitive feedback
 Figure 2

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