LEVITON GFI
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about LEVITON GFI from 3G Electric.
What is the difference between Leviton GFI hospital-grade and standard-grade receptacles?
Leviton GFI hospital-grade receptacles are manufactured to meet stricter performance standards, including higher impact resistance and a minimum 10,000-cycle endurance rating. They are typically used in healthcare facilities where reliability is critical. Standard-grade models are suitable for general commercial and residential applications. Both provide ground-fault protection, but hospital-grade versions undergo additional testing for durability and performance under repeated use.
Are Leviton GFI receptacles available in different amperage ratings?
Yes, Leviton GFI general purpose receptacles are available in 15 A and 20 A ratings. The 15 A models use a NEMA 5-15 configuration, while the 20 A models use a NEMA 5-20 configuration. Both are rated for 125 V AC and are 2-pole, 3-wire devices. The amperage rating determines the maximum current the receptacle can handle and the plug type it accepts.
What is the trip threshold for Leviton GFI receptacles?
Leviton GFI receptacles are designed to trip when a ground fault current of approximately 4-6 milliamperes is detected. This threshold is established by UL 943 and is intended to protect personnel from electric shock. The device interrupts power to the load when a fault is sensed, and it must be manually reset after the fault is cleared. This level of protection is required in many wet or damp locations by electrical codes.
Can Leviton GFI receptacles be used to protect downstream outlets?
Many Leviton GFI receptacles feature a feed-through design, which allows them to protect downstream receptacles connected to the load terminals. When wired this way, a single GFCI device can provide ground-fault protection for multiple outlets. This is common in branch circuits where several receptacles are connected in series. The load terminals are clearly marked, and the device includes a test and reset button to verify operation.
What colors are available for Leviton GFI receptacles?
Leviton GFI receptacles are offered in a variety of colors to match different installation environments. Common colors include ivory, white, gray, brown, black, and red. The color is typically indicated by a suffix in the manufacturer part number. For example, models ending in -I are ivory, -W are white, -G are gray, -E is black, and -R is red. This allows for color-coding by circuit or matching existing decor.
Are Leviton GFI receptacles tamper-resistant?
Some Leviton GFI models include tamper-resistant shutters that prevent the insertion of foreign objects into the receptacle slots. This feature is often required by code in residential settings, particularly in areas accessible to children. Tamper-resistant receptacles are identified by a TR marking on the device or in the part number. Not all Leviton GFI receptacles are tamper-resistant; it depends on the specific model.
