Many people have heard GFCIs, or ground fault circuit interrupters. They are a feature in many homes aimed at increasing safety where electrocution may occur. GFCI outlets are usually required to be installed in areas where moisture can directly contact the outlet, such as kitchens, bathrooms, or outdoor areas. But a lesser-known term is GFI – what do they do? Do they serve the same purpose as GFCI? This blog will answer all your questions regarding GFCIs and GFIs and ensure you are protected in your home.
So, what is the difference?
In practice, there is no significant difference between a GFCI and a GFI. The term GFCI is used more often, and most products will be branded using the term GFCI.
What are GFCIs, and how do they work?
The purpose of GFCIs is simple; to prevent dangerous incidents of shocks, electrocutions, or burnings due to physical contact with an electrical current. The GFCI can very quickly, within milliseconds, determine if something connected to the outlet has an interruption in the current, most commonly from contact with water. This quick detection hopefully allows the power to be cut to the device before any harm can be done to the person holding or touching it, such as if one was to drop an item plugged into their kitchen outlet into a sink full of water. To make sure that your GFCI outlet is protecting you and working correctly, most come equipped with a button to test and restart the system. The device’s insulation promises no harm can come to you during this test. GFCIs have a lifespan of around 15-20 years, but routine tests should be done even on newer models to ensure everything is in working order.
Do GFCIs always work?
Ground faults occur when damaged wires, moisture damage, or debris buildup allows current to flow through an unplanned path directly to the ground, following the course straight through any items or persons not protected. Thankfully, a well-maintained GFCI is highly reliable when it comes to preventing this damage before it happens. If a GFCI is often tripped or strained, this protection may lapse over time. If your GFCI is reset and in working order, the protection it gives can be counted on in most cases. GFCIs have been responsible for saving thousands of lives since their introduction decades ago.
Steps to Take If the GFCI Router Trips
If your GFCI outlet has tripped and turned off its power, something plugged into the circuit might be damaged or badly worn.
To start, remove all appliances and plugs from the outlet and find the aforementioned TEST button on the GFCI outlet face. You should hear a sound indicating that the power has been cut to the plug connections.
Test the power. Any device, such as a microwave, toaster, or lamp, should not have power flowing into them.
After confirming the power is off, press the RESET button on the face of the outlet and begin plugging in any items previously connected to the circuit one by one. If the cause of the trip was a faulty connection or water damage on one of the appliances, the problem should again arise.
If all appliances worked correctly, a deeper issue with your GFCI outlet itself might be to blame for the trip. An inexpensive GFCI tester can tell you more about potential problems with wiring within the outlet. Not all issues will cause an immediate circuit trip, so be diligent if you ever experience an unexplained loss of power and find the problem which caused it.
If any issue is found with your GFCI (or GFI) outlet, it is crucial to have a certified professional to install a new one in its place. Older wiring may lead to unexpected issues and real danger.
Promise Electric is a team of master electricians in Sarasota, Florida. we specialize in residential and commercial projects of any size and scope.
