Different safety measures being used in electrical appliances nowadays have made the users careless in handling them. And thus, often fall prey to the faulty gadgets. GFCI is such a reliable electric device which safeguards us from electrocutions. This device, if finds any variation in the current flowing from the source and returning to it, it will immediately shut down the power.
For the safety of the homes, National Electric Code has made the installation of GFCI mandatory and more and more people are favoring the use of this magic device. Some time back, people used this only at the outlets near water. But now, these are found even in bathrooms, kitchens, basements and garage etc.
Furthermore, today’s market posses three types of GFCI outlets that is receptacle type, circuit breaker type and the portable type.
Let us first discuss about the receptacle type. It is the most common type of the GFCI outlet and looks similar to the ordinary electrical switch outlet. It consists of two small buttons marked test and reset. As soon as the test button is pressed, GFCI trips and disconnect the power to anything plugged into the receptacle. These are found throughout the house.
Circuit breaker type of GFCI are installed in a panel box and protect the selected area. This type of GFCI have dual functions. It not only shuts off the power supply in case of ground fault, but also get tripped if a short circuit or overload takes place.
Lastly, the portable type GFCI outlets. As the name suggest, these are not fixed in the wall or the panel box. Rather, these are enclosed in the plastic case. The back side contain plug in blades so as to fit in any of the electric outlet. Whereas the front side of it consists of receptacle slots so s to fit in the device in the GFCI.
Another type of the portable GFCI is simply an extension cord combined with a GFCI. These are similar to the adapters. These are quite flexible and are used in large places.
Since, it is hazardous to play with electricity, better seek the help from a skilled electrician to install the GFCI outlet. Also, timely inspect the GFCI installed at your places for their effective working.
Scott Rodgers is an author with ample electrical experience all over the country. His splendid guidance has created business opportunities for a lot of Glen Ellyn Electricians and Hoffman Estates Electricians .
