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View Full Version : Different size gfi outlets?


shane2827
Jul 12, 2009, 07:39 PM
I am buying a house that was built in 1959 and has no GFI outlets, I am trying to put some in and the older metal boxes are smaller than the newer ones and I am having no luck getting the new GFI outlets into these boxes?? Do they make a smaller GFI outlet for this application? If not what can I do without tearing apart the walls?

ohb0b
Jul 12, 2009, 08:32 PM
Install a GFCI circuit breaker to protect the entire circuit. One drawback is you have to reset the GFCI at the service panel.

Another solution is to screw a "wiremold" device box over the existing receptacle box. This will give you a little extra room, but is not the most aestheticly pleasing; the box will protrude from the wall, still for kitchen counter receptacles, this isn't a bad solution, particularrly if they are under a wall cabinet.

sdho
Jul 12, 2009, 09:36 PM
The Wiremold suggestion is good if the box is *really* shallow, but if the GFCI is close to fitting, you may want to try a different brand. Pass and Seymour, for example, is a bit shallower than Leviton.

hkstroud
Jul 13, 2009, 05:14 AM
Cut out old box with sawsall and install new "old work box".