What is a GFCI Outlet?
A GFCI, or ground fault circuit interrupter is a device that is designed to break–or interrupt–a circuit whenever it senses an imbalance or ground fault. An outlet with a GFCI protects the wiring and the receptacle itself from overheating or causing a fire. GFCI outlets also minimize the risk of burns and shocks.
How Do GFCI Outlets Work?
In a GFCI outlet, the interrupter is part of the outlet and is always tracking the current flowing through the circuit. This allows the GFCI to sense fluctuations as they happen. If the GFCI outlet senses any change in the flow of electricity, it will immediately “trip,” stopping the electricity from flowing through the circuit.
This is why, when your GFCI outlets trip, you may have outages in other rooms or areas of your home. The current at the outlet is stopped, so any outlets or devices further along the affected circuit will not receive power either.
Where Should You Install GFCIs?
GFCI outlets are important safety features in your home. They can prevent shocks, fires and damage to your appliances. According to the National Electric Code (NEC), GFCI outlets should be installed in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, garages, unfinished basements, crawl spaces, and near pools, spas and hot tubs. Additionally, all of your exterior outlets must be GFCI outlets.
Testing Your GFCI Outlets
Just like having GFCIs installed in the correct places, It is also important that you test your GFCI outlets periodically, preferably monthly.
There are two buttons on your outlet: one will say “test” and the other “reset.” To test your GFCI outlet first unplug all appliances and devices from the outlet. Push the test button. You should hear a snap, which means the outlet has tripped. At this point, you can test the outlet with a voltage meter. The meter should not show any voltage because the tripped outlet should have interrupted the circuit. Voltage meters are inexpensive and available at hardware stores or online.
If you don’t have a voltage meter, simply plug a device into each of the outlets. The devices should NOT work, since the outlet is tripped. If they do work, then you know the GFCI’s safety mechanisms are not working correctly and the outlet should be replaced.
Once you’ve tested both sides of the outlet, simply push the reset button and your GFCI will be working again.
GFCI outlet testers are also available at low cost. Simply plug the tester in the outlet and the device will show you if your outlet is working.
If you find your GFCI outlets aren’t working, give Las Vegas Electrician Fowler Electric a call or email. Our experienced electricians are here to help keep you and your family safe.
