Table of Contents
What is the function of a ground fault circuit interrupter?
The ground-fault circuit interrupter, or GFCI, is a fast-acting circuit breaker designed to shut off electric power in the event of a ground-fault within as little as 1/40 of a second. It works by comparing the amount of current going to and returning from equipment along the circuit conductors.
When should ground fault circuit interrupter be used?
The NEC requires GFCIs on all exterior and bathroom receptacles (another term for outlets). GFCIs are also required on all receptacles serving kitchen countertops. In laundry rooms and utility rooms, GFCIs should be installed on outlets within six feet of sinks, washing machines, and water heaters.
What is a ground fault circuit interrupter GFCI and how does it protect you?
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlet is a safety device that protects against electrical shocks in wet areas. A GFCI outlet uses a built-in sensor that monitors electricity between the hot and neutral inlets.
What is GFCI and why is it important?
A GFCI is specifically designed to protect people against electric shock from an electrical system, and it monitors the imbalance of current between the ungrounded (hot) and grounded (neutral) conductor of a given circuit. We need only to look to the NEC for the definition of a GFCI.
Can I replace a GFCI outlet with a regular outlet?
GFCI’s can wear out. If you’re willing to give up the protection then yes, you can switch back to a normal grounded outlet and the wiring should be basically the same.
Why can’t I reset my GFCI outlet?
A GFCI or GFI outlet may not reset because there’s a ground fault occurring at a regular outlet that’s not working, or somewhere else downstream of the GFI. Chances are, there’s a ground-fault at one or more downstream wires, receptacles, or electrical devices. An incorrectly installed GFI may be problematic too.
Where should a ground fault circuit interrupter be installed?
The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires GFCI outlets in all wet or damp locations. For your home to be up to code, working GFCI outlets must be installed in your bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms.
Do washers need GFCI?
There is no specific requirement in the NEC for the washing machine itself to have GFCI protection. Section 210.52(F) requires a receptacle outlet to be installed for the laundry area and it must be supplied by a 20-ampere branch circuit in accordance with 210.11(C)(2).
Does dishwasher need GFCI?
Kitchen dishwashers installed in dwelling units require GFCI protection whether hard wired or cord and plug connected.
Do I need GFCI outlets if I have a GFCI breaker?
You do not need both a GFCI outlet and a GFCI circuit breaker on the same circuit. GFCI circuit breakers are good installation options for new branch circuits, but they may not work properly on older, multiwire systems.
What’s the difference between GFI and GFCI?
There is actually no difference at all. A common conversation when discussing receptacles may be referring to a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) as simply a ground fault interrupter (GFI). They are generally the exact same thing.
What are the 3 types of GFCI?
The three most common types of GFCIs are the outlet, the circuit breaker and the portable one.
What does a GFCI outlet look like?
A GFCI receptacle is easily recognizable. Simply look for the test and reset button on the face of the outlet. This also includes any electrical outlets that are connected on the same line. If a ground fault is detected, a GFCI outlet will cut the power to the entire line.
How does a GFCI protect a circuit?
GFCI circuit breakers protect the entire circuit. GFCI circuit breakers are simple: By installing one in the service panel (breaker box), it adds GFCI protection to an entire circuit, including the wiring and all devices and appliances connected to the circuit.
Can I install a GFCI outlet myself?
After you have removed the old outlet, you can begin replacing it with the new GFCI outlet. Using your needle nosed pliers or wire cutter, make sure the wires are straight and able to be put into the new GFCI outlet. You only want to be rewiring your GFCI outlet into the line screws.
Can I plug a refrigerator into a GFCI outlet?
A refrigerator shouldn’t be plugged into a GFCI outlet. GFCI outlets are used in areas of the home with water or moisture. The problem with refrigerators is that they can cause unneeded trips in GFCI outlets. When not caught soon enough, this can lead to a fridge full of spoiled food.
Does power go to line or load on GFCI?
The “line” wires are the incoming power from the breaker box and the “load” wires are the outgoing power that travels down the circuit to the next outlet.
How can you tell if a GFCI outlet is bad?
If the GFCI won’t reset or the button doesn’t pop out when you press the “test” button, there may be no power to the GFCI or you may have a bad GFCI. Pro tip: If the “reset” button trips again every time you press it, there may be a dangerous current leak somewhere on the circuit.
How do I know if my GFCI breaker is bad?
GFCI circuit breakers also should be tested monthly. The test is similar to testing GFCI outlets. You simply open the door on your home’s service panel (breaker box) and press the test button on the GFCI breaker. This should cause the breaker to trip, shutting off all power to the entire circuit.
How long should a GFCI outlet last?
GFCI outlets last between 7-10 years but can sometimes fail after only 5 years. Since GFCIs are one of the most important safety features in your home, it’s important to check your GFCIs monthly and every home should have its GFCIs tested and replaced if necessary every 7-10 years.
