The Role of GFCI Outlets in Ensuring Home Safety
Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets are different from traditional outlets. GFCI outlets are safety devices that provide protection from electrical shocks. These outlets stop the flow of electricity in the event of a ground fault. Note that “GFCI outlet” and “GFCI receptacle” refer to the same safety device.
GFCI Outlets and Ground Faults
Electricity should flow on a safe path to the outlets in your home. A ground fault occurs when electricity leaves the safe path. Instead of going where it should, the electricity slips away and travels where it doesn’t belong.
The danger is that runaway electricity might flow into a person or into some other object. GFCI outlets know when electricity isn’t taking the right path. When this happens, the outlets stop electricity in its tracks.
Several things can cause a ground fault. Some wires in your home might have cracked or worn-out insulation. Maybe the electricity comes in contact with water near an outlet or appliance. A ground fault can also occur if there’s a faulty appliance or electronic item.
How GFCI Outlets Spot a Problem
GFCI outlets monitor the amount of current flowing into and out of a circuit. The current is how much electricity moves past a certain point every second. When things are going great, both currents are equal. If a GFCI outlet notices a difference of 5 milliamperes (mA) or more, then that outlet cuts the power. This protects you from electric shock.
Around 1 mA is enough to feel a small tingle. If it’s 5 mA, you might get a painful shock. Things get more severe when you add more mA.
When there’s between 10 and 20 mA, your muscles will freeze. You will then struggle to let go of whatever is causing the shock. If it’s 30 mA or more, the current going into your body can cause death.
Fewer Fire Hazards
GFCI outlets are good at helping prevent electrical fires. Remember, a GFCI outlet shuts off power when it detects a ground fault. This can stop wires from overheating or electrical arcing before a fire can occur.
Fire hazards caused by electrical issues are common. Electrical Safety Foundation International reports that more than 50,000 electrical fires occur in the United States each year. These fires are responsible for more than 1,400 injuries and almost 500 deaths per year.
GFCI Devices
GFCI outlets are the most common form of GFCI protection. But several types of GFCI safety devices are available. The device that’s best for your home depends on your needs. You might even benefit from having different types of GFCI devices in your home.
1. Outlets
You’ll see GFCI outlets in place of standard electrical outlets. It’s pretty easy to tell when you’re looking at one of these outlets. If there’s a test and reset button on the outlet, then it’s a GFCI outlet.
The test button allows you to check that the safety device is working. Press it, and the outlet reacts as if there’s a ground fault. It should shut off power to the outlet right away. Press Reset to return power to the outlet after testing or an actual ground fault event.
2. Circuit Breakers
GFCI circuit breakers are installed inside of the main electrical panel for your home. This gives you protection for a whole circuit. You might consider this option if you want to protect several outlets that share a circuit. You can also do this if you want to avoid installing individual GFCI outlets.
3. Outlet Adapters
Portable GFCI outlet adapters give GFCI protection to standard outlets. These are plug-in devices intended for temporary use. Perhaps you’re working outside with electrical tools and don’t have access to a GFCI outlet. The portable adapter will give you the protection you need during your project.
GFCI Outlets Improve Safety at Home
GFCIs adds a layer of protection to your home. 1st Choice Service Group Heating & Air is ready to help with GFCI outlet issues for customers in the Asheville, NC area. With our installations, you’re sure to get top-notch work that meets quality and compliance standards. Our services also include other things such as electrical repairs, electrical upgrades, panel inspections and backup generators.
Feel free to contact 1st Choice Service Group Heating & Air for more information about GFCI safety devices.