Hidden GFCI

[RobC]

I've always been of the understanding that a GFCI is required for electric heating under ceramic tiles.

I did a new home recently with bathroom floor heating and for the life of me couldn't find the breaker.

After some research I was informed by a SCO that newer systems may use a GFI protected thermostat that replace GFCIs at the panel.

What's the general concensus here?

Are we cutting corners?

or is it not an issue?

[Brian G]

Originally posted by RobC

After some research I was informed by a SCO that newer systems may use a GFI protected thermostat that replace GFCIs at the panel.

I've never even heard of that before. If that's someones' made-up BS, its very impressive. Anything's possible though.

Brian G.

[RobC]

I got that from a city electrical inspector and I haven't had the time to research it yet.

I know what you mean, thermostats are generally low voltage, but thought I would ask around anyway.

[Chad Fabry]

Electric heat thermostats are often the same voltage as the element they control. If there were gfci protection at the stat shouldn't there be a test button?

[RobC]

Assuming they were, I'd have to agree about the test button.

And no, I didn't see one.

I'm wondering if there IS such an animal in the first place.

[Terence McCann]

Hi Rob:

Have a look here. The model TH-111 shows a GFCI included.

http://www.repesa.com/manufac/aube/progstat.htm

[RobC]

How about that, great find Terence

It looks exactly like the one I saw a few days ago, and priced reasonably I might add.

I'll have to 'inspect' the thermostats more closely next time, if I can ever figure out how some of them work.

Thanks much for your research