Electrical Lifesaver
GFCIs function very simply. They constantly monitor electricity flowing into a circuit to detect a loss of current. If it does detect any, it will quickly shut off the current.
A Small Investment Big Lifesaver
Can you name a small, inexpensive device in your home that protects against electric shock? If you answered a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI), you’re absolutely right. If you didn’t, read on.
GFCIs provide protection against electric shock from ground faults, or contact with live electrical parts by a grounded individual. Ground faults are often the result of damaged cords or appliances, poorly insulated wires or mishandled products. They occur when the electrical current strays outside of the path where it should flow. If your body provides a path for the current to the ground, you may be injured.
Homeowners can have a qualified electrician install GFCIs in outlets that are outdoors, or in bathrooms, kitchens or wherever products may come in contact with water. By doing so, more than two-thirds of all residential electrocutions could be prevented.
GFCIs function very simply. They constantly monitor electricity flowing into a circuit to detect a loss of current. If it does detect any, it will quickly shut off the current flowing through that circuit, even if it’s too small for a fuse or circuit breaker to detect.
There are three types of GFCIs for homes:
o Wall receptacle GFCIs which are used in place of standard receptacles.
o Circuit breaker GFCIs, installed in a panel box.
o Portable GFCIs which can be plugged into receptacles or are part of extension cords.
Once a GFCI is installed, it must be checked monthly to make sure it’s working properly.