Which type of receptacles must be protected in unfinished basements?

In unfinished basements, the National Electrical Code (NEC) requires that both 15-amp and 20-amp receptacles be protected by ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). This requirement is in place due to the increased risk of electrical shock in areas where water or moisture may be present, which is often the case in unfinished basements.

Receptacles rated for 15A and 20A are typically used for general-purpose outlets; therefore, both types need to have this added protection to enhance safety. GFCI protection is a key safety feature that minimizes the risk of electrical hazards in these potentially damp conditions by cutting off the electrical flow when an imbalance is detected.

While 30A receptacles may be used for specific applications, such as large appliances or equipment needing higher current, they do not fall under the same category of general-purpose outlets that necessitate GFCI protection in unfinished basements. Therefore, including both 15A and 20A receptacles as requiring protection aligns with the intent of the NEC to ensure safety in potentially hazardous environments.