Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter Wiring Diagrams

This page contains wiring diagrams for ground fault circuit interrupter (gfci) receptacles. Included are diagrams for multiple ground fault circuit interrupters to protect a standard duplex receptacle and a light fixture. To wire a gfci circuit breaker see this link and wire a gfci switch combo at this link.

These diagrams illustrate 15 amp circuits using 14/2 awg cable. Existing household wiring used for lighting and receptacles may be on 15 or 20 amps circuits. To use these diagrams in 20 amp circuits use 12 awg cable and devices rated at 20 amps.

Wiring Multiple GFCI's to Protect a Duplex Receptacle

This gfci wiring provides protection to a duplex receptacle. By connecting the load terminals on the last gfci, the receptacle is protected and can be used just as if it were one of the gfci receptacles. One ground fault circuit interrupter at the beginning of a series of duplex receptacles can be used in the same way to protect multiple, subsequent receptacles.

Wiring Multiple Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters and a Receptacle

This diagram illustrates the wiring for multiple ground fault circuit interrupter receptacles with an unprotected duplex receptacle at the end of the circuit. The load terminals on the gfci are not used and the last receptacle is wired directly to the circuit source.

Wiring a GFCI Outlet to Protect a Light Switch

This diagram illustrates the wiring for a circuit with gfci receptacles followed by a light and switch. By connecting the switch to the load terminals on the gfci, the light is protected against ground faults as well.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter and a Light Switch

This diagram illustrates the wiring for a circuit with gfci receptacles followed by an unprotected light and switch. The light switch is connected directly to the source and the load terminals on the gfci are not used.