Are there GFCI outlet with USB ports?
A USB charging outlet with GFCI protection does exist, now you can have an outlet in locations that require GFCI protection, with the benefit of USB charging ports. Perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, garages, or anywhere safe and protected power is needed to meet code. There is the Legrand Radiant model, and now Leviton has there version out.
So now that it does exist there has to be a caveat right? Not that I can see. It still has test and reset buttons and an indicator light on the front, and tamper resistant plugs to meet code and keep children safe. The Legrand model even has a load out connection to GFCI protect other non-GFCI outlets downstream of the outlet, the Leviton model doesn't. You would think the outlet would be huge and require a deep box, but it doesn't. The Legrand model can still fit in a standard sized 18 cubic inch box, while the Leviton model does require an extra deep back box. They were able to fit two high-speed USB charging ports in the outlet. The Legrand USB charging ports deliver 2.1 Amps and the Leviton model delivers 4.8A of power. Choose from nine different color choices to match any décor scenario, white, gray, black, brown, bronze, nickel, light almond, graphite, and ivory.
The outlet comes in two different options for amperage:
Option 1: 15 Amp plugs.
Option 2: 20 Amp plugs for increased power demands, or locations that require 20 Amps to meet local code.
The outlet comes in three different options for USB charging port configurations:
Option 1: Two USB-A charging ports. (Legrand and Leviton)
Option 2: Two USB-C charging ports. (Legrand)
Option 3: One USB-A and one USB-C charging port. (Legrand)
Option 2: Two USB-C charging ports. (Legrand)
Option 3: One USB-A and one USB-C charging port. (Legrand)
Why has a GFCI and USB charging combo outlet been so widely requested? There are a few reasons.
1. Now you don't have to use a USB adapter plugged into the GFCI outlet, they are bulky, unsightly, and tend to get lost.
2. GFCI is frequently getting required in more locations to meet NEC code, particularly where you would want USB charging ports. Kitchens and bathrooms are big ones; but also wet bars, garages, laundry rooms, and basements.
3. If you installed a USB outlet the line that the USB outlet is on, the breaker would have to have a GFCI switch. Those can be expensive to replace, and you may not have space in the panel for a larger two pull switch.
Where can you find these amazing outlets?
- Ryan H
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