Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters GFCIs
A ground fault circuit interrupter, called a GFCI or GFI, is an inexpensive electrical device that can either be installed in your electrical system or built into a power cord to protect you from severe electrical shocks. GFCIs have played a key role in reducing electrocutions.
Ground fault protection is integrated into GFCI receptacles and GFCI circuit breakers for installation into your electrical system, especially for circuit outlets in particularly vulnerable areas such as where electrical equipment is near water. The GFCI is designed to protect people from severe or fatal electric shocks but because a GFCI detects ground faults, it can also prevent some electrical fires and reduce the severity of other fires by interrupting the flow of electric current.
Where to Install/Use
- Underwater pool lighting
- Receptacles
- Outdoors
- Bathrooms
- Garages
- Kitchens
- Crawl Spaces & Unfinished basements
- Wet bar sinks
- Laundry & Utility Sinks
Also consider portable GFCI protection:
- Whenever operating electrically-powered garden equipment (mower, hedge trimmer, edger, etc.)
- With electric tools (drills, saws, sanders, etc.) for do-it-yourself work in and around the house
How to Test
GFCI’s can sometimes fail and should be tested. Test every GFCI:
- After installation
- At least once a month
- After a power failure
- According to the manufacturer’s instructions.
If you do not have the instructions you can follow this procedure:
- 1. Plug a lamp into the outlet and turn the lamp on.
- 2. Press the GFCI’s test button. Did the light go out? If not, the GFCI is not working or has not been correctly installed. Contact Brothers to correct the wiring and/or replace the defective GFCI.
- 3. Press the reset button. Did the light come back on? If not, contact Brothers to replace the GFCI.
