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While most electrical items can be plugged into a GFCI outlet, some appliances with internal or stationary motors, such as refrigerators, vent fans, and fluorescent lighting, can cause nuisance tripping. This happens because they experience a small, normal amount of current leakage, which can cause the GFCI to trip even when the appliance is working correctly. Although this is not a safety hazard, it can be inconvenient and may cause the GFCI outlet to wear out faster. For this reason, it is often better to plug these types of appliances into a standard outlet. Additionally, electrical circuits over 100 feet long can sometimes cause tripping. Some appliances, like hair dryers, have their own built-in GFCI protection, so connecting them to a standard outlet is fine.

If you’re wondering whether an electrical panel in the bathroom needs to be moved, the answer is yes. Due to the risks of shocks and electrical fires, electrical panels cannot be located in bathrooms per National Electric Code Volume 70. Additionally, gasses, vapors, liquids, and temperature fluctuations can all compromise the functionality of your electrical panel, so it’s important to install it in a dry, cool, safe, and easily accessible location.

Full home electrical inspections are mandatory if you’re buying a new home, but if you’re just looking for a safety checkup, you have some flexibility. If you don’t have any concerns and your property is relatively new, a basic inspection is usually sufficient. If it’s been a long time since your home was last inspected, or it’s an older home, a full home inspection can help catch any concerns that may fly under the radar.

First, check the current electrical code in your area to ensure spaces you’re considering meet the requirements. After that, your outlet’s location is up to you. If you’re moving it to hide wiring, you may want to move it in a spot that will also be hidden from view, such as behind a media center or table. As long as you meet the spacing guidelines set by electrical codes, you should be able to pick any spot in your home for an outlet.