GFCI is a critical safety feature

More safety issues? Man! Just when you thought I might get off onto something else, I bring up safety again.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter, or GFCI, has been mentioned here before, but it seems it always needs attention. It seems like I run into faulty installations at least once a month.

GFCIs are electrical devices that measure the power that flows from the electric panel to a device (typically a wall-mounted duplex receptacle) and then back to the panel.

 
If the electric current were to take a shortcut to a person rather than go back to the panel, the GFCI senses an imbalance and proceeds to shut off the flow.

There are two types of GFCI. First, the GFCI breaker that mounts in the electric panel itself. The second type is incorporated into the duplex (commonly called an outlet). They will each have a button labeled "Test." Pressing the Test button should trip the device and cut the electrical flow. This should be verified by plugging in a lamp, radio, or something else you know works. Whatever you plug in should not work after the Test button has been tripped.

The method used to turn the power back on will depend on the GFCI device itself. When it's tripped off, the panel-mounted GFCI breaker should find the handle moved to halfway between the "on" and "off" positions. If you try to move it to the "on" position, it probably won't stay. The breaker type generally requires moving the breaker fully to the off position first, then back to the on position.

 
 
The receptacle type will have a button labeled Reset. Pressing the Reset button should restore power to the outlet. It's a good idea to test for power one more time after turning the device back on.

This test should be done on a regular basis, perhaps monthly, to ensure the proper operation of this important safety feature. When testing the kitchen circuit, look in the refrigerator to be sure it is not on the GFCI circuit. If it were to trip off when you weren't aware of it, you might find a nasty surprise waiting when you go looking for a midnight snack.

Do you have GFCI protection devices installed in the kitchen and bathrooms? How about the garage or unfinished basement? They are a must-have safety feature for any outdoor receptacle, or any place where there is the possibility of the presence of water.

 
 
GFCI protection can sometimes be needed for light fixtures as well, such as when there is an enclosed overhead light in a shower stall. Testing these devices takes only a few minutes each month.

If the power does not go off when tested, or if you don't have these devices in your home, consult a qualified electrician for repair or installation.

The cost is nominal and the benefit is tremendous everywhere About The House.

 
 
Rob Kinsey has been a licensed builder in Michigan for more than

20 years.

and home inspector with more than 12 years experience. He has also done consulting and teaching for the building trade.