GFCI Outlet

GFCI outlets or "Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters" are one of the most important electrical safety devices within your home or business. GFCI devices are designed exclusively as a safety device to protect homeowners from the dangers of an electrical shock.

GFCI protection is required for all plugs and outlets within garages, kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and on the exterior of your home. This protection has also been recently added to the NEC (National Electrical Code) to include all appliances where water is either connected or nearby such as disposals, dishwashers, refrigerators, dryers, and washers. Having GFCI protection in these areas of your home can greatly reduce the chance that you will be injured from an accidental electrical shock. These areas require GFCI protection either because they are locations where water is present next to sinks, basins, exteriors of the home, or areas where it is likely extension cords will be connected.

GFCI outlets monitor your circuit or devices for current loss. If the GFCI outlet detects a current loss which can be a sign of electrocution it will immediately shut down the circuit power to  prevent serious injuries or death. Many people believe that when a GFCI trips it is likely because they have plugged in too many things. Since GFCI outlets do not monitor overloads or overcurrent this is a false assumption. If your GFCI trips often it is likely caused from the presence of moisture, a damaged cord or device on something plugged into an outlet, or a faulty outlet. 

If your GFCI outlets are tripping often or you have received a home inspection report that your GFCI protection is missing, call Cox Electric today and let us upgrade the safety of your home.