Decorative GFCI outlets

A GFCI outlet shuts off power in a fraction of a second when it senses current leaking to ground, which protects people from shock near water. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says it compares the current going out with the current coming back and trips at a difference as small as 0.006 amps. The same fact sheet says to press the test button at least once a month.

Sources: cpsc.gov

NYC homes need GFCI protection for outlets in bathrooms, garages, outdoors, basements, crawl spaces, laundry areas, kitchen countertops, and within 6 feet of a sink, tub or shower. That list, plus boathouses and damp or wet indoor areas, is section 210.8(A) of the 2020 National Electrical Code, which NYC's 2025 Electrical Code adopts without changing this section. A replacement outlet in one of these spots must be GFCI protected too, even in an older apartment.

Sources: iaeimagazine.org, nyc.gov, nyc.gov

Yes, new and replacement 15 and 20 amp, 125 volt outlets in homes must be tamper-resistant under NEC 406.12, which New York City's code adopts. Spring-loaded shutters open only when both plug blades push in at once, so a key or hairpin in one slot does not reach the contacts. The rule dates to the 2008 NEC, with a few exceptions such as outlets more than 5 1/2 feet above the floor.

Sources: esfi.org, captaincode2020.leviton.com, nyc.gov, nyc.gov