Code Context 

At issue is Section 210.8 of the NEC, which requires GFCI protection in certain locations. In recent cycles, Subsection 210.8(F) was added, which extends GFCI requirements to outdoor outlets, including those that serve HVAC equipment.  

HVAC systems, like inverter-driven equipment and cord-connected condensate pumps, have had widespread reports of nuisance tripping. Because of this, NFPA had previously included a grace period, which is set to expire Sept. 1, 2026, meaning outdoor equipment could skip the GFCI, unless a local jurisdiction modified the rule.  

While the goal is increased safety, for contractors, this has raised concerns on reliability, call-backs, frustrated homeowners, and damaged reputations.  

ACCA had asked NFPA to exempt cord-connected condensate pumps in basements from the GFCI requirement, and also extend the effective date for outdoor HVAC equipment beyond September 2026. However, both appeals were denied, and requirements are set to take effect next year.  

Impacts on Contractors 

As of now, nothing has really changed following this news — the NEC cycle will move forward as planned.  

“Almost everyone will be required to comply with the new requirements,” said Wes Davis, ACCA’s director of technical services. “ACCA has been fighting to fix the 2026 National Electric Code (NEC), but contractors operating under the 2020 and 2023 editions of the NEC are also impacted.” 

Contractors can use this link to see which version of the NEC their jurisdiction operates under. Contractors operating under earlier versions of the NEC (e.g., 2008 or 2017) need to double-check with their AHJ, but should be spared from compliance. 

ACCA is going to push for targeted exemptions at the state and local level. 

Contractors should also modify their strategy and plan for likely callbacks due to trips.  

When these do happen, ACCA is asking for a hand in this fight and for contractors to keep building the technical record for a possible Tentative Interim Amendment or future cycle change.  

“Data should drive decisions,” Davis said. “In Texas, HVACR professionals were able to present data that the existing Ground Fault Circuit Indicators (GFCI) resulted in nuisance trips that risked health and safety. Think about a mobility-challenged person whose air conditioner was shut off by the GFCI on a July afternoon, or someone on vacation who comes home to a hot, humid house that is growing brown fuzzy substances. When the time comes to fight, contractors should bring the biggest weapons in their arsenal: data. Data related to nuisance trips, data about product availability, and records that show revenue lost due to GFCI-related callbacks will be critical pieces of the discussion in future code changes.”

Looking Ahead 

“While this decision is a setback, it is not the end of the road,” said Davis. “We will continue to fight for reasonable, practical codes that protect safety without placing unnecessary burdens on contractors and consumers.” 

 ACCA will keep working with state chapters, the Leading Builders of America (LBA), and National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) on this matter. 

“We want to educate the states affected by these changes so they can make wise choices based on the marketplace's readiness to implement these new requirements,” Davis said. “In addition, if ACCA sees that the marketplace is still unprepared by the spring of 2026, then we will submit a Tentative Interim Amendment (TIA) to extend the effective date to September 1, 2029. We are concerned about the ability of the manufacturers to meet market demand by the current deadline. Therefore, we want to be ready to address the technical emergency that could face our industry next fall.”