How Do You Understand A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)?
A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is designed to reduce the chance of electric shock and provide a higher level of safety than a standard circuit breaker. Because of this, most building codes now require GFCIs be installed in locations where moisture might be present, such as kitchens (near sinks), laundry rooms, bathrooms and even in outside electrical outlets. GFCIs are installed in one of two ways: Outlet GFCIs replace a single standard outlet, while breaker GFCIs are installed right in your electrical panel and protect an entire circuit. To ensure GFCIs are working properly and continuing to provide enhanced protection, they need to be tested periodically. Here’s how to understand and test a GFCI. Understand that GFCIs work similarly to a standard circuit breaker or fuse. However, GFCIs are more sensitive than ordinary breakers and fuses, so will react more quickly to an incorrect circuit flow, thus provide increased protection from shock or worse. Knowing how a circuit sho
