I've got this lovely situation in my garage where there's an outlet right above the deep sink, and while I don't have my tape measure handy I'm fairly certain this is less than 6' from the sink, and the washer is plugged into it.
Should I seal this outlet off (with a blank wall plate)? If I do, I'll need to use an extension cord to plug the washer in since it's to short to reach the outlet in blue (about a 6' span), or alternatively I could relocate it. Or should I just put a GFCI outlet above the sink or a GFCI Breaker on the circuit and continue to use it?
Best Answer
NEC Article 210.8 (A)(7) Covers sinks in areas other than kitchens. All Outlets must be GFCI protected that are within 6' of the edge of any sink, and as it was already stated all receptacles in a garage should be on GFCI protection.
Although there is no specific code requirement for installing receptacles above a sink. There is NEC Article 406.9 (C) which states Receptacles shall not be installed within or directly above a bathtub or shower stall. I think common sense will tell you its not a good idea to have one above a sink. I would say this is the intent of the code.
You might think of installing a WP cover or extension ring at that location and moving the receptacle over to the washer in water proof conduit and of course GFCI protected.
The main idea is to create a safe working environment.
Good Luck