AHRI, ACCA Seek Delay As HVAC GFCI Deadline Nears

A new electrical code rule set to take effect Sept. 1 would require GFCI protection — the same type of shock-safety device used in outlets near sinks — on many outdoor air conditioners and heat pumps. Two industry groups, AHRI and ACCA, are asking for a two-year delay because testing shows these devices often don't work well together. The mismatch can cause "nuisance trips," where the GFCI shuts off a working, safely installed AC or heat pump for no real reason.

This matters for homeowners because a nuisance trip means your cooling system suddenly stops, and you'd need to find and reset a tripped breaker or device to get it running again. The groups pushing for the delay point out that this isn't just a hassle: during a heat wave, a system that shuts off unexpectedly can be dangerous, especially for older adults or people who can't easily tell what went wrong or reset the equipment themselves. They cite Maricopa County, Arizona data showing most 2024 heat deaths there happened in homes where the AC wasn't working or wasn't running. There's also a supply issue — the newer GFCI devices built to work with modern HVAC equipment aren't yet available everywhere.

The requested extension would push the deadline to September 2028 to allow more testing. A decision from the National Fire Protection Association is expected after a public comment period closes Sept. 9. If the delay isn't granted, homeowners installing or replacing qualifying outdoor equipment after Sept. 1 could be more likely to encounter this tripping problem.