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Safety GFCI protected dual electrical outlet, black power plug and cord

What is a GFCI Outlet?

Safety GFCI protected dual electrical outlet, black power plug and cordGFCI stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. The purpose of a GFCI outlet is to prevent electrical shock by cutting off the flow of the electrical current when a variant is detected, such as moisture entering the outlet or an appliance overheating. A GFCI outlet is commonly installed in bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas where moisture is present.

Standard vs. GFCI Outlet

A standard duplex outlet supplies current to anything that is plugged into it without interruption. A GFCI supplies current similarly, but it has a failsafe mechanism built in to stop the flow of current under adverse conditions.

The GFCI outlet has two buttons on it. One is a test button and the other is a reset button. A standard outlet does not have these buttons.

The GFCI works like a mini circuit breaker. When the electrical current is compromised by things such as moisture, heat, or a short in the supply wire, the reset button will trip the outlet off and immediately stop the flow of current. Once the source of power interruption is remedied, the reset button can be depressed to restore the flow of current. It is recommended to have an electrician determine the cause of the power interruption if it happens more than once.

The test button can be used to make sure the outlet is working properly. You can plug a small appliance, like a hair dryer, into the outlet and push the test button. If the outlet is working properly, the appliance will turn off and the reset button will pop out.

GFCI outlets can be double the cost of a standard duplex outlet. That said, outlets are not expensive, so the increase in cost is minimal. The labor cost to install should be the same.

Best Locations for GFCI Outlets

Installation of GFCI outlets is best done performed by a licensed electrician. There are standard electrical and building codes that stipulate where GFCI outlets must be installed. The NFPA 70: National Electrical Code® is a good source for information on GFCI placement requirements. Near sinks in kitchens and bathrooms and outdoor areas are the most common places for GFCI outlets. Placement in garages and unfinished basements is also recommended.

GFCI outlets are a required safety component in any electrical wiring system for both residential and commercial buildings. Older homes and buildings may not have any GFCI outlets. It is prudent to consider upgrading standard outlets in certain rooms and areas to GFCI outlets. The installation is relatively easy, as a GFCI replacement outlet is sized to fit in a standard outlet box.

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