What's a GFCI?
A GFI, or GFCI stands for Ground Fault Circuit
Interrupter.

What does it do?
It is a device that senses the amount of current
(amperage) that is flowing out on the ungrounded
conductor (the hot), and compares it to the amount of
current returning on the grounded conductor (the
neutral). If there is the slightest difference, (as little as
one half a milliamp) the circuitry inside the device shuts
itself down in as little as 1/40 of a second. It will protect
you from being electrocuted if you are ever unfortunate
enough to some how come into contact with a live
conductor.

Do I need one?
Since 1973, The National Electric Code has been
increasing the locations that are required to be protected
by GFCI's.
These locations pertain to dwelling units. All outside
receptacles, kitchen counter top receptacles, wet bar
counter top receptacles within 6 foot of the sink,
bathroom receptacles, and any receptacles in unfinished
basements, garages, outbuildings, crawl spaces, and  boat
houses.
If you do not have them installed in these areas, you do
not have to run right out and do so. But for safety’s  
sake, it is recommended that you consider it. It also may
come up if you are trying to sell your home, some
municipalities are requiring them before you can make
the sale.

What types are there?
They come in 2 basic forms:

Receptacle- These come in different colors, and you just
place them where you would any other receptacles. They
are quite large though, so you have to watch the box size
you are putting it in. It is always best to use a deep box
when ever possible. These can also protect other outlets
that are down stream of the device, that is, connected to
the "load" terminals of the GFCI.

Breaker-This is just as it says, a breaker that is installed
directly into the panel. It protects the entire circuit that
the breaker feeds. This is not always desirable, as all
GFCI's can be temperamental devices, and certain things
like to set them off unnecessarily.

Operation
When the device senses a potential shock occurring, it
"trips" out and shuts off power to itself and whatever it is
feeding. You must then press the reset button to re-
energize the device. It is also recommended  that you test
them monthly  by pressing the TEST button located on
the device. The are known to fail occasionally, so it is
good to make sure they are operating correctly, and you
are your family are protected properly.

If you have any questions about the above, or would
like a price to install them, go to our Contact Page.

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