Eliana Willis

While GFCI outlets offer reliable protection compared with standard outlets, they aren’t meant for every type of electrical device. Some items should never be plugged into a GFCI, as they could malfunction or trip the circuit unnecessarily, leading to power disruptions or unsafe situations. Below is a list of devices not suited for GFCIs.1. Devices with a “high inrush” currentAppliances like refrigerators, freezers, air conditioner units, and power tools require a serious initial burst of electricity when powered on. Yes, even though refrigerators are almost always located in kitchens, the counterintuitive truth is that they can cause the GFCI to trip because of the large initial surge of current, even if there is no actual fault. This is known as “nuisance tripping,” and it is aptly named. Don’t risk spoiling a fridge full of foods by plugging it into a GFCI.2. Outdoor equipmentSimilarly, outdoor equipment such as electric lawnmowers or pressure washers should ideally be plugged into a dedicated outdoor outlet. While GFCIs are designed for outdoor use to reduce shock hazards, high-powered equipment can cause the GFCI to trip if it draws too much current at one time. Also: The best home EV chargers of 2025: Expert tested3. High-powered appliancesAppliances that use significant power, such as space heaters, microwave ovens, or vacuum cleaners, can cause a GFCI outlet to trip, especially if they are used on a circuit with high loads. These appliances could create a situation where the GFCI trips frequently (more nuisance tripping).4. Surge protectors or power stripsSome power strips and surge protectors, particularly those with multiple plugs for high-powered devices, could cause the GFCI outlet to trip due to the combined electrical load. A sudden power surge or imbalance could cause the GFCI to trip unexpectedly, defeating the GFCI outlet’s purpose and causing repeated circuit tripping.5. Sump pumpsWhile the National Electrical Code (NEC) specifically mandates that new construction includes GFCIs in basements, there is another ironic exclusion among the list: sump pumps. Sump pumps are designed to prevent flooding, but if the GFCI trips and cuts off its power, your basement might end up under several inches of water.Also: How I used this portable power station to bring electricity to a caveman6. Medical equipmentMedical equipment like CPAP machines and oxygen concentrators require continuous, uninterrupted power, so we advise plugging these vital devices into conventional outlets, not GFCIs. Some medical devices have sensitive circuitry, and the GFCI may trip unnecessarily, causing a loss of power to life-sustaining equipment. More

<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The YHE BP Doctor Fit is available for just $129. Blood pressure results are within 6-8 mmHG of a blood pressure cuff, the display is vibrant, the battery lasts a week, basic health tracking is available, and the price is low. The band closure is the opposite of other watches; the […] More

<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Asus Zenbook Duo is on sale now for $1,499 at Best Buy. This laptop is a creator’s dream machine, with dual-OLED touchscreens, a highly configurable form factor, and a great battery. It takes time and effort to get the most out of this laptop, and you’ll need lots of desk […] More

<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways Asus’ Zenbook S 16 starts at $1,399 and affirms the brand as an industry leader in laptop design. It’s constructed from a unique material that allows it to be lightweight yet durable, while also housing a 3K display and a solid set of hardware. However, the machine has a somewhat middling […] More

Sabrina Ortiz/ZDNETAmazon has been focused on bringing generative AI to Alexa for the past few years, hitting multiple delays in launching new features that the company first announced in September 2023. The delayed Alexa 2.0 was poised for a 2025 release, and Amazon held a late February event where it made big announcements for the artificial intelligence-powered virtual assistant. Amid rumors of Alexa 2.0 shortcomings, Amazon skipped its 2024 Devices and Services event, where the company typically announces new Alexa features and hardware devices. Instead, it unveiled Alexa+ last month, the voice assistant’s generative AI features, and finally put an ETA on its launch. Also: 7 exciting AI features coming with Alexa+ (and what Amazon devices support it)”Up until a couple of years ago, it was pretty difficult to invent with AI, and that changed with the arrival of foundational models and generative AI. This made the technology much more accessible, so people can see the power and magic of what generative AI can do,” Amazon CEO Andy Jassy said. The event, which took place on Feb. 26 in New York City, was Panos Panay’s first since joining the Devices and Services division after his Microsoft exit. In addition to new Alexa features, Amazon also made other announcements. Everything announced at Amazon’s February 2025 event More

<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Garmin Instinct 3 Solar is available in two sizes and four color variations for $399 (45mm) and $499 (50mm). The unlimited battery life, brilliant integrated flashlight, rugged build, and accurate tracking make this a perfect watch for adventurists. Unfortunately, the display is still monochrome, mapping remains limited, and the watch […] More

<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Sharge Icemag 2 power bank is available on Amazon now for $50. With a perfect size, a powerful battery, RBG lighting, and a tiny fan to keep things cool, this power bank is ideal for those on the go. The Icemag 2 isn’t exactly the fastest charging power bank on […] More

<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Roborock Saros 10R is available for $1,600 This new robot vacuum and mop combination navigates complex areas and quietly vacuums, with a good mopping feature that reaches along the edges to not miss a spot The Saros 10R’s mirrored dock looks great, but the water tank is relatively small, lasting […] More