GFCI Protection: What it is and how to maintain it

Monday, July 7, 2014 1:32pm

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) devices, are required in specific areas of our homes. We must all have GFCI protection in our kitchens, bathrooms, unfinished basements, outside our homes as well as our garages. GFCI devices monitor the electricity between the ungrounded (hot) and grounded (neutral) conductors. If there is an improper imbalance between the two conductors the GFCI will stop the power from exiting the receptacle, which prevents people from receiving an electrical shock.

GFCI protection comes in several different forms. The most noticeable would be in the form of a receptacle. The second form of GFCI protection that is common in homes is GFCI breakers. Both of these devices protect people from receiving an electrical shock. The receptacle is located in the outlet where we plug devices in. The breaker is located in the electrical panel.

GFCI devices need to be properly maintained. It is suggested by manufactures to test the GFCI device on a monthly basis. The way you test the devices is as follows:

On the receptacle, there is a test button, press the button. After you pressed the button try to plug something into the receptacle, the item you plugged in should not work. Now, press the reset button and plug the same item in. You should have restored the power.
On the breaker, press the test button located on the breaker. The breaker should now be turned off. To restore power to the breaker make sure the breaker is in the off position and push to the on position, this will restore power to the circuit.

Please make sure if you have GFCI protection in all the areas of your home listed above and make sure you test the devices on a monthly basis to ensure the devices are working correctly to protect you and your family...and as always, please feel free to call or email us with any questions or concerns.

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About John's Electric

Linn Park Fountain, Birmingham, AL

John's Electric Inc. is a family owned and operated electrical contractor business that proudly provides electrician services in Birmingham, AL and the surrounding areas such as Hoover, Homewood, Chelsea, Vestavia Hills, Pelham, Alabaster, Trussville, and Mountain Brook. John's Electric provides residential and commercial electrical solutions at competitive rates. We have been in this line of work for 30 years, giving us not only experience but expertise as well. You can depend on us. We are a state licensed electrician (#03875) for your protection.

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