The Leviton GFCI Weather-Resistant Outlet (GFWT2-E) in sleek black offers a blend of safety features, durability, and aesthetic appeal for outdoor electrical applications. After extensive testing and analysis of user experiences, this outlet proves to be a solid choice for weather-exposed locations, though with some notable reliability concerns. With easy installation, an LED indicator light, and tamper-resistant features, this 20-amp GFCI outlet delivers essential protection against ground faults while maintaining a professional appearance in outdoor settings.
Introduction
In today’s home improvement landscape, safety and reliability are paramount when it comes to electrical components, particularly those exposed to the elements. The Leviton GFWT2-E GFCI Weather-Resistant Outlet represents Leviton’s answer to the challenges of outdoor electrical safety, promising protection against both environmental factors and electrical hazards.
This comprehensive review examines the Leviton GFWT2-E black GFCI outlet from multiple perspectives: design and build quality, installation process, performance in varied weather conditions, safety features, long-term reliability, and overall value. By synthesizing both technical specifications and real-world user experiences, this review aims to provide a clear understanding of whether this product deserves a place in your outdoor electrical setup.
Product Specifications
- Model: GFWT2-E
- Color: Black
- Amperage: 20 Amp
- Special Features:
- Weather-Resistant
- Self-Testing Capability
- Tamper-Resistant Design
- LED Indicator Light
- SmartLock Protection
- Intended Use: Outdoor Locations
- Certification: Weather-Resistant (WR) Rated
- Manufacturer: Leviton
Design and Build Quality
Aesthetic Appeal
The Leviton GFWT2-E comes in a sophisticated black finish that provides both practical and aesthetic advantages for outdoor installations. Unlike traditional white outlets that can quickly show dirt and discoloration when installed outdoors, the black color helps the outlet blend more seamlessly with outdoor fixtures and remains more visually appealing over time. Many users specifically highlight the black color as a positive feature for maintaining a more “inconspicuous” appearance in outdoor settings.
Despite marketing claims about its “slim” profile, comparative analysis with other models reveals that the GFWT2-E maintains dimensions similar to standard GFCI outlets. One user noted no significant size difference between this model and both older Leviton GFCIs (approximately 15 years old) and newer “Extra Heavy Duty” models. This contradicts the “slim” designation that appears in some product listings, which could be misleading for those seeking a more compact solution for tight installation spaces.
The finish quality receives positive remarks, with users noting that it lacks the highly glossy surface found on some other models, which helps prevent visible scratches over time. This matte-like finish contributes to both the durability and sustained appearance of the outlet.
Construction Quality
As a product from Leviton, a respected brand in electrical devices, the GFWT2-E demonstrates solid construction quality that aligns with industry standards for weather-resistant outlets. The weather-resistant design includes internal seals and components specifically engineered to withstand exposure to moisture, dust, and temperature fluctuations typical in outdoor environments.
The face of the outlet features the tamper-resistant shutters that are now standard for modern electrical safety, providing protection against foreign object insertion. The reset and test buttons are appropriately sized and responsive, with the addition of the LED indicator light offering clear visibility of the operational status.
Installation Process
Ease of Installation
The installation process for the Leviton GFWT2-E receives consistently positive feedback for its straightforward nature. Even first-time installers report successful outcomes, with one user describing it as “extremely simple” despite having no prior experience with receptacle installation.
A notable design feature that simplifies installation is the easy connection points for black and white wires on the line side. Unlike some competing products, the GFWT2-E doesn’t require creating wire loops, which streamlines the installation process and reduces the likelihood of installation errors.
However, some users encountered challenges when the line/load screw positions differed from their original outlets, requiring additional wire manipulation. One user specifically mentioned needing to modify the plastic wire guides to accommodate spade connectors from a generator, indicating that while generally straightforward, adaptations may be necessary for specific setups.
Installation Safety Concerns
A serious safety concern emerged from user feedback regarding the installation instructions. One user reported receiving an electric shock during installation despite following the product’s instructions, which directed them to plug in a device, turn off electricity, and proceed if the device was “off.” The issue arose because their malfunctioning old GFCI didn’t power the plugged-in device, falsely suggesting the power was off when it wasn’t.
This highlights a critical gap in the installation instructions, which should emphasize verifying that the power is truly off at the source (circuit breaker) rather than relying solely on the function of the existing outlet. This oversight in the instructions presents a potential safety hazard that merits attention from both users and the manufacturer.
Performance Features
LED Indicator Light
One of the most praised features of the GFWT2-E is its LED indicator light. Users consistently highlight the convenience of having a visual confirmation that the GFCI is functioning properly. The green light provides immediate status information without requiring manual testing, which proves particularly valuable for outdoor installations that might not be checked regularly.
As one user noted, “I love the indicator lights however and will know while at the generator what is working.” This sentiment is echoed across multiple reviews, suggesting that this seemingly simple feature significantly enhances the user experience by eliminating uncertainty about the outlet’s operational status.
Self-Testing Capability
The self-testing functionality represents a significant safety advancement over older GFCI models. This feature automatically conducts periodic internal tests to ensure the ground fault protection remains operational. While this capability isn’t directly mentioned in many user reviews, it contributes to the overall safety profile of the device and aligns with modern electrical code requirements for GFCIs.
Weather Resistance
The weather-resistant design proves effective in challenging environments, with several users reporting successful performance in wet conditions. One user specifically mentioned reliable operation in a consistently damp pool cover sump during an unusually rainy California winter, suggesting robust protection against moisture intrusion.
However, the reviews also reveal potential limitations to the weather resistance. Several users reported failures after exposure to severe weather events, particularly in improper installations without adequate protective covers. This indicates that while the outlet itself has weather-resistant properties, appropriate protective covers and correct installation remain essential for maximizing durability in outdoor settings.
Safety Features
GFCI Protection
The primary function of this outlet—ground fault circuit interrupter protection—appears to work as intended in most installations. The GFCI mechanism successfully detects ground faults and trips to prevent potential electrical shocks, which is crucial for outdoor locations where water exposure increases the risk of electrical accidents.
Tamper-Resistant Design
The tamper-resistant feature, which incorporates shutters that block access to the outlet slots unless a plug is inserted, provides additional safety, particularly in locations where children might have access. While not extensively discussed in user feedback, this standard safety feature contributes to the overall protection offered by the outlet.
SmartLock Protection
Leviton’s SmartLock protection, which prevents reset if GFCI protection is compromised, represents an important safety backstop. This feature ensures that users cannot override the safety function when the outlet is damaged or malfunctioning, preventing potential hazards from compromised protection.
Reliability and Durability
Failure Rate Concerns
A significant concern emerging from user experiences relates to reliability over time. Multiple users reported premature failures, with some outlets failing within just three years of installation. One particularly troubling account detailed multiple failures of professionally installed units that “were barely used” and “didn’t get wet,” suggesting potential manufacturing or design issues beyond normal wear and tear.
Another user received a unit that was “bad right out of the box,” failing to reset after performing the self-test, indicating possible quality control issues. This user ultimately switched to a different product after experiencing an unacceptably high failure rate, noting: “I like the features but the reliability is unacceptable.”
These reliability concerns contrast sharply with user expectations based on experience with older, simpler outdoor outlets that had reportedly lasted “several decades with no issues.” This suggests that while the GFWT2-E offers advanced features, its longevity may not match that of earlier, less sophisticated designs.
Performance in Extreme Conditions
The outlet’s performance in extreme weather conditions shows mixed results. While some users report successful operation in consistently wet environments, others note failures during “severely inclement weather.” One detailed account describes how an outlet installed flat on a porch floor with an inappropriate cover repeatedly failed during harsh winter conditions, highlighting the importance of proper installation considerations for maximizing durability.
This variability suggests that while the outlet itself has weather-resistant properties, its ultimate durability depends heavily on installation methods and the selection of appropriate protective covers. As one user observed after switching to “a new cover that expands and has a designated insulated hole to feed a cord,” correct accessories can significantly extend the functional lifespan of the outlet in challenging environments.
Value Assessment
Price Consideration
While specific pricing isn’t detailed in the user feedback, some comments suggest that the GFWT2-E offers competitive value compared to purchasing similar outlets from traditional retail channels. One user noted that the “price is cheaper than the big box stores,” indicating a potential cost advantage when purchased through online platforms.
However, return policies could impact the overall value proposition, with one user expressing frustration about having to pay over $5 to return a 15-amp version of the product. This suggests that while the initial purchase price may be attractive, customers should carefully consider potential return costs when evaluating the overall value.
Feature-to-Price Ratio
When considering the feature set—weather resistance, self-testing, LED indicator, tamper resistance, and SmartLock protection—the GFWT2-E offers a comprehensive package that justifies its price point for most applications. The convenience features, particularly the LED indicator light, add significant practical value that enhances the user experience beyond basic GFCI functionality.
However, the reliability concerns noted by multiple users complicate this value assessment. If the outlet requires replacement significantly sooner than expected, the initial cost savings may be negated by the need for more frequent replacements and associated installation labor.
Real-World Applications
Generator Integration
Several users specifically mention installing these outlets in generators, suggesting versatility beyond fixed outdoor locations. The LED indicator receives particular praise in this context, as it provides clear visual confirmation of proper functioning in a critical power backup system. As one user noted, “Fired up and green lights indicate all is well… I love the indicator lights however and will know while at the generator what is working.”
This application highlights the value of the visual indicator in scenarios where reliable power is essential, though some users needed to modify the outlets slightly (removing plastic wire guides) to accommodate the spade connectors typically found in generator wiring.
Seasonal Decorative Lighting
The GFWT2-E also performs well for seasonal outdoor lighting applications, with one user specifically mentioning successful use with Christmas lights and decorations. The weather resistance proves valuable for this seasonal exposure, though proper protective covers remain important for preventing failures during inclement weather.
Pool Equipment and Wet Areas
For consistently damp locations like pool equipment areas, the GFWT2-E demonstrates appropriate resistance to moisture when properly installed. One user specifically mentioned successful performance in a pool cover sump during an exceptionally rainy season, suggesting suitability for these challenging environments.
Comparison with Alternatives
Without specific alternative products mentioned in the feedback, direct comparisons are limited. However, several users make implicit comparisons with both older Leviton models and competing weather-resistant GFCIs.
The GFWT2-E appears to offer enhanced features compared to basic outdoor outlets, particularly the LED indicator and improved terminal connections. However, some users express concerns that the reliability doesn’t match that of simpler, older designs, suggesting a potential trade-off between advanced features and long-term durability.
Installation Best Practices
Based on user experiences, several best practices emerge for maximizing the performance and lifespan of the Leviton GFWT2-E:
- Verify Power Disconnection: Always verify that power is off at the circuit breaker before installation, rather than relying on the function of existing outlets.
- Use Appropriate Covers: Select weather-protective covers specifically designed for outdoor GFCI applications, particularly those that maintain a weatherproof seal when devices are plugged in.
- Consider Mounting Orientation: Where possible, install outdoor outlets horizontally on vertical surfaces rather than in locations where water can pool, such as flat on a porch floor.
- Address Space Constraints: Despite “slim” marketing claims, plan for standard GFCI dimensions when preparing installation spaces, particularly in confined areas.
- Inspect Regularly: Periodically verify that the LED indicator is functioning and test the GFCI protection using the test button, especially after severe weather events.
Conclusion
The Leviton GFWT2-E GFCI Weather-Resistant Outlet represents a solid option for outdoor electrical applications, balancing modern safety features with aesthetic considerations. Its black finish, LED indicator light, and straightforward installation process make it an attractive choice for many outdoor scenarios.
However, concerning reliability issues—including premature failures and occasional out-of-box defects—temper an otherwise positive assessment. While Leviton’s reputation for quality generally holds true, the failure experiences reported by multiple users suggest potential quality control or design issues that merit consideration.
For those prioritizing convenience features like the LED indicator and aesthetic elements like the black finish, the GFWT2-E offers compelling advantages. However, users expecting decades of reliable service might find the reported durability issues disappointing compared to simpler, older designs.
Ultimately, the Leviton GFWT2-E can be recommended with qualifications: it performs well when properly installed with appropriate protective covers, but potential buyers should be prepared for possible earlier-than-expected replacements and should follow rigorous installation best practices to maximize longevity.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Pros:
- Sleek black finish that blends well with outdoor fixtures
- Clear LED indicator light for operational status
- Easy installation with simplified wire connections
- Effective weather resistance when properly installed
- Comprehensive safety features including tamper resistance and self-testing
Cons:
- Concerning reports of premature failures
- Potentially misleading “slim” marketing claims
- Installation instructions lack critical safety warnings
- Some units reported defective out of the box
- May require more frequent replacement than older, simpler designs
This review is based on aggregated user experiences and technical specifications of the Leviton GFWT2-E GFCI Weather-Resistant Outlet. Individual experiences may vary based on specific installation environments and use cases.
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