What is a GFCI Outlet?

GFCI stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. This special outlet is designed to keep you from getting shocked. It has a tiny circuit breaker inside. It can sense an imbalance in electrical flow and trip or break the flow of power. Two buttons in the middle of the outlet allow you to Reset and Test it.  

The slightly larger vertical slot in your outlet is the “neutral”. The smaller vertical slot is the “hot” and the round hole in the middle is the ground. When you plug something in there should be an even flow between the neutral and hot. The GFCI outlet has the ability to monitor this flow. If you drop your toaster in a sink full of water the GFCI will cut power to the outlet within one-thirteenth of a second!

Installing GFCIs within 6 feet of a water source, in garages and on the exterior of your home has been a code requirement for some time now. If remodeling an older house you’ll need to update these in the areas you are working on. This often comes up during a real estate inspection. While not otherwise required to be installed in an older home it is recommended for the added safety it provides. When it comes to real estate advice please just reach out!

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