GFCI safety outlets—GFCI is short for ground-fault circuit interrupter—safeguard you from electric shock by quickly turning off power when they sense an imbalance in electrical current. They continuously monitor the flow of electricity and react in milliseconds to avoid electrocution. GFCI outlets are often installed in areas of the home where water is found, like kitchens and bathrooms. They are an essential way to increase your home’s safety.
A GFCI outlet acts as a fast-acting circuit breaker developed to turn off electric power when there is a ground fault. GFCI outlets protect against electrocution by quickly cutting power when they detect electricity flowing along an unintended path.
To identify GFCI outlets in your home, look for outlets with “Test” and “Reset” buttons between the two receptacles. These outlets are typically found in areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms and outdoor spaces.
GFCI outlets should be installed in rooms of your home where water and electricity are both found. Some examples of areas where GFCI outlets are frequently installed include kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, basements, crawl spaces and any spaces with sinks. The best way to know where to install a GFCI outlet in your home is to obtain advice from one of the certified electricians at A1 Chesney Service Experts. We know Calgary-area electrical codes backward and forward, and can explain where a GFCI outlet is required in your home or where putting in a GFCI outlet would add to your safety.
Weather-resistant GFCI outlets have additional protections that enable them to safely operate in all weather. If you are considering installing a GFCI outlet outdoors, it’s encouraged that you install a weather-resistant outlet. The outlets also should be sheltered from the elements for additional safety.
properly operating GFCI outlet usually will last 15 to 25 years. That said, to ensure safety it’s suggested that you test your GFCI outlets monthly and replace them as soon as possible if they fail to trip or reset.
To reset a GFCI outlet, first unplug everything from the outlet. Next, push the reset button—which is normally located between the two outlets. If hitting the reset button doesn’t work, you may need GFCI outlet replacement.
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