where shouldn't I use a GFCI?

[5amuel]

I like to use GFCIs for peace of mind, but I’m wondering where they actually cause more trouble than they’re worth
I’ve heard putting a fridge on one is a bad move, but what about dishwashers or microwaves?
Where do you guys draw the line between being safe and avoiding annoying nuisance trips?

 

[Alan]

Are you asking as a homeowner trying to avoid headaches, or as someone wiring a job and trying to keep callbacks down? Also, is this kitchen, garage, basement, or outdoors? Location drives the answer a lot with GFCI rules.

 

[PGB1]

I’ve heard putting a fridge on one is a bad move,

Nope, 5amuel, not a bad move to use Ground Fault Protectionon a refrigerator- especially if a person can touch the appliance and something grounded at the same time. Reason? The Calrod heaters in refrigerators develop cracks and can leak current. So can door heaters & defrost terminators. Light switches in freezer compartments can build up ice and leak current.

If the GFI or GFCI opens, you will know the appliance is leaking current to ground.

dishwashers

If you are covered by NFPA 70, protection is required for new dishwasher installations.
Our old one had no Ground Fault protection. The calrod developed micro cracks. I could read significant voltage from the dishwasher door to the sink's faucet when the water temperature boosting cycle was operating.

microwaves

No reason not to. If the GFI or CGFI opens, then you know there is a problem. Also- If it plugs into a counter top receptacle outlet in a house kitchen, that device has to be protected.


Editorial-
Just My Opinion (Except the part about NFPA 70 requiring protection on new dishwasher installations in houses.)
Paul

 

[PGB1]

Are you asking as a homeowner trying to avoid headaches,

For electrical safety, skipping something pesky can become deadly. Even if 5amuel is only trying to avoid headaches, a headache is better than a dead-ache.

Kind of like seatbelts: They can sometimes be a headache to wear; but if your head hits the windshield- you will have a really big headache!