View Full Version : Is a gfci outlet installed inside a bathroom vanity is legal ?
xavier_pj
Jun 22, 2011, 12:03 PM
I'm interested to buy a vanity from Kohler with a gfci in the drawer, but one of my friends had a problem with an inspector with a similar vanity. So I'm wondering if the inspector was right?
ballengerb1
Jun 22, 2011, 12:33 PM
Model would be helpful. I have never seen a GFCI in a drawer and can't picture how or why it would work. A drawer moves and an approved flexible cable would be needed. What does the GFCI protect/power?
xavier_pj
Jun 22, 2011, 12:54 PM
It is a discontinued product, Kohler K-2437 Fountainhead, that I found in an outlet store. Here is the installation manual: (http://www.us.kohler.com/onlinecatalog/pdf/1059700_2.pdf)
donf
Jun 22, 2011, 06:42 PM
Xavier,
I read through the installation instructions and I believe I understand what they are stating.
Basically, they are telling you to you need to start the installation at a wall that has not been covered by drywall.
As to the electrical receptacle, they are telling you that the receptacle must have a grounding conductor from the receptacle back to the service panel.
They are not telling you to use a GFCI receptacle. They are emphatically telling you that you must protect this branch circuit with a GFCI breaker.
I suspect that the reasoning behind this mandate is that the receptacle behind the unit will not be readily accessible in the event of a problem. So use a GFCI breaker.
tkrussell
Jun 23, 2011, 02:57 AM
Some inspectors will decide that the outlet in the drawer would not take the place of an outlet that must be located on the counter.
donf
Jun 23, 2011, 05:33 AM
TK,
The receptacle in the drawer face is plug connected to a receptacle that is mounted on the wall behind the vanity.
That circuit is supposed to be protected by a GFCI circuit breaker.
When I get a moment, I'll check the instructions to see if there is a UL listing for this configuration.
xavier_pj
Jun 23, 2011, 08:21 AM
Thank you all