What Is a GFCI Outlet? Electrical Experts Explain
Have you ever noticed that some outlets in your home have reset buttons?
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are a special type of electrical outlet that will quickly shut off power if a ground fault is detected. The electrical experts at Heart of Ohio are here to explain how GFCI outlets work, when to press the “test” and “reset” buttons, and why they’re important for protecting the electrical system in your home.
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How Does a GFCI Outlet Work?
A ground fault happens when a live wire touches a grounded object, which then causes electricity to flow through an unintended path. Ground faults can be extremely dangerous as they pose safety risks and can cause extensive damage.
A GFCI outlet works by monitoring the flow of electricity traveling throughout a circuit. If the voltage gets too high, the GFCI outlet will immediately shut off power to prevent electrical shock and other hazards. These are a must-have safety component for all houses, especially in areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and anywhere electrical devices may come into contact with water.
GFCI circuit breakers are installed in your electrical panel to provide the highest degree of protection for areas with multiple outlets, as they can safeguard an entire circuit. There are also portable GFCIs that can be plugged into regular outlets to offer temporary protection. Weatherproof GFCI outlets are best for areas that need to be protected from outside elements, like rain, snow, ice, and humidity.
What Do Those Test and Reset Buttons Do?
The test and reset buttons found on GFCI outlets are there to ensure the outlet is working properly. Using these buttons is incredibly easy. If you push the test button, the outlet should lose power and the reset button should push out to indicate the GFCI outlet is working the way it should. You can then press the reset button back down to restore power to the outlet.
If you push the test button and the reset button doesn’t pop out, or if the reset button won’t push back in, this means there’s an issue with the outlet that should be addressed by a professional electrician. It’s smart to test your GFCI outlets at least once a month.
Benefits of GFCI Outlets
GFCI outlets are inexpensive devices that serve as an extra safeguard to protect you and your home from the dangers of electrical currents. There are many benefits of installing GFCI outlets, including:
- Protecting against electrical shock
- Reducing the risk of electrical fires
- Preventing electrical damage
- Meeting requirements for building codes and insurance policies
- Improving home safety
Call Heart of Ohio for GFCI Outlet Installation
At Heart of Ohio, our team has over 100 years of combined experience. Our professional electricians have the tools, training, and expertise needed to ensure your GFCI outlets are installed correctly and function properly. Electrical can be extremely dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing, so it’s always best to call an electrician to ensure the job gets done safely and without error. Our team is on standby for all your home service needs, including electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Schedule GFCI outlet installation services with Heart of Ohio today.
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