What is a ground fault device?
A ground fault current interrupting device (GFI or GFCI) is a safety device incorporated into receptacles or circuit breakers. They sense the difference between the current entering a circuit and the current leaving it. When the two currents are not equal, it means some current is “leaking to ground” and the device disconnects the power supply before personal injury can occur. The National Electrical Code requires GFCI protection for receptacles located in bathrooms, kitchen receptacles at counter height, basements, outdoor receptacles and garages where hazardous conditions are likely to exist. Their use is also required in other applications such as swimming pool and hot tub (spa) wiring.
Related Questions
- A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter is supposed to be a valuable safety device. Why not use them everywhere, even on large appliances with 3 wire plugs?
- Why does disconnecting the AC power protect the terminal from fault currents emanating from the ground system or telco lines ?
- What is a ground fault device?
