Understanding the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)
A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is a type of electrical outlet that should be installed in certain areas of every home. This outlet looks similar to a traditional outlet, but has two additional buttons in the middle of the unit which should read “test” and “reset”. Usually installed near potentially wet locations, including bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms and outdoors, GFCI outlets can prevent electrocution and death, as well as some electrical fires.
Electrocution via electrical outlets occurs when a person’s body completes a circuit from the electrical hot to the ground. This can happen if a metal object is inserted into an outlet, if there is a short in the outlet, or if water is touching the outlet or touching an appliance that is plugged into that outlet. When properly functioning, a GFCI senses any fluctuation in power and shuts off the power to that outlet in a fraction of a second. While the person touching the shorted circuit may receive a painful shock, the power is usually shut off before serious injury occurs.
GFCI receptacles should be tested once a month to ensure that they are providing proper protection. This is done by plugging a night light into the outlet, then pressing the “test” button; the light should go out. Pressing the “reset” button should bring the light back on. If the GFCI fails to operate properly, an electrician should be called to replace the receptacle.
Its a nice information..but still for that we need to have an understanding of basic electrical wiring. If you feel at all uncomfortable about working on an electrical circuit, then it might be best the call a professional. Understanding basic circuitry, knowing where to turn circuits off and on, being able to test circuits and keep track of what goes where are all essential and important.
The GFCI is still something I consider the workhorse innovation in the field of electrical safety.
Nice review on GFCIs. We are consistently saddened by news of totally preventable electrocutions every year, particularly in swimming pools and moist grass due to improper grounding of outdoor wires. Indoor electrocution has become less serious of a problem since people stopped using Federal Electric circuit breakers and panels, but those unfortunately occur sometimes too.
This is a great electrical equipment every household that could ever had. This provides information on how we should always be cautious when it comes to electrical thing in our home.
armil@electrician recently posted..Reliable Electricians
This is a very nice device for safety in our homes. Good video indeed. Electrician do love this device next to fuses. This is really cool and very safe.
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