Ground fault circuit interrupters, or GFCI outlets, protect against electrical shock. GFCI outlet installation is a cost-effective way to protect yourself from electrical shock while also bringing your property up to contemporary building code requirements. MD Electrical Integration offers GFCI installation in Atlanta, and will execute GFCI outlet installs and replacements to keep your family safe.
When you have an electrical current flow through a circuit, there is the potential for danger. If you should touch something that is connected to a live wire, there is the risk of receiving an electrical shock. GFCI outlet installations protect against the risk of shock by monitoring the flow of current in each outlet. If there is a significant drop, the GFCI will cut the flow of current preventing the risk of electrocution. GFCIs are a great way to keep your family safe.
GFCI Installation in Atlanta - What Is a GFCI Outlet?
GFCI outlets are necessary in locations where there is a high risk of electrical shock, such as kitchens, baths, and garages. The “test” and “reset” buttons on the GFCI receptacle can be used to identify it. By measuring the quantity of energy flowing in a circuit, these outlets help safeguard you from electrical risks. The GFCI turns off power to the outlet when it senses an imbalance in the flow of electricity.
If you have concerns about the safety of your electrical system, you can have a licensed electrician install a GFCI outlet. You should also install GFCI outlets in high-risk areas of your home.
These include A garage: You should have a GFCI outlet installed in the garage, where you keep your lawnmower, bikes, and other potentially dangerous equipment. A kitchen: You should have a GFCI outlet installed near your kitchen sink. A bathroom: You should have a GFCI outlet installed in the bathroom, where you keep your power tools. A laundry room: You should have a GFCI outlet installed in the laundry room, where you keep your clothes dryer. A basement: You should have a GFCI outlet installed in the basement, where you store potentially dangerous items like chemicals.
GFCI Installation in Atlanta - How to Operate a GFCI Outlet
To restore electricity, push the “reset” button on your GFCI outlet if it stops working under normal operating conditions. Because GFCIs are more sensitive to slight fluctuations in current, they are far more dependable than relying on the circuit breaker in your electrical panel to stop current flow. In fact, before an electric shock may impact your heartbeat, they are intended to cut off power flow. Because of this vital safety feature, it is crucial to test all GFCI outlets in your home on a regular basis.
Where can I find a GFCI outlet? GFCI outlets are typically found near sinks and showers, or in basements, where water can flow through the floor and harm a less reliable outlet. To test the outlet, unplug the appliance and flip the circuit breaker to the “on” position. If the outlet cuts power, it is likely a GFCI. Where can I find a GFCI breaker? GFCI breakers are typically found inside the electrical panel in your home, and they are not as reliable as a GFCI outlet. To test the GFCI breaker, unplug the appliance and flip the circuit breaker to the “on” position. If the power doesn’t flow, it is likely a GFCI.
GFCI Installation in Atlanta - How to Test GFCI Outlet Performance
- To interrupt electrical flow to the outlet, press the “test” button.
- To check that current is no longer flowing to the receptacle, plug in a night lamp or other small item that requires a little amount of power.
- To restore power to the outlet, use the “reset” button.
If your GFCI outlet fails any element of this test, contact MD Electrical Integration for a GFCI installation in Atlanta.
GFCI Installation in Atlanta - Where Are GFCI Outlets Required?
Since 1971, when they were authorized for use with swimming pool equipment and along the outside walls around pools, GFCIs have been needed in residences. GFCI outlets are now required in many additional places of your house, particularly in locations where the risk of electrical shock is heightened owing to probable exposure to risk factors such as water.
GFCI outlets are needed in the following areas:
- Since 1971, the spa and pool sections have been available.
- Since 1973, we’ve been working on the outside of your home.
- Since 1975, there have been bathrooms.
- Since 1987, we’ve been making kitchen countertops.
- Since 1990, we’ve been working on crawlspaces and unfinished basements.
- Since 1993, we’ve had a wet bar.
- Since 2005, we’ve had laundry and utility sinks.
GFCI Installation in Atlanta - Limitations of GFCI Outlets
Refrigerators and freezers should not be plugged into GFCI outlets. These appliances can cause electromagnetic interference, which can cause GFCI outlets to trip. GFCIs are not compatible with most stoves and dryers, which require 240 amp power outlets. GFCI outlets can also be tripped by small appliances with heating components, such as irons, hair dryers, or toaster ovens. Finally, overloading an extension cable with too many gadgets will trigger the GFCI outlet into which the extension cord is plugged.
If a GFCI detects that it has been tripped and no water has flowed through the circuit, it will immediately shut off power to the outlet to prevent water from flowing through it and potentially damaging the GFCI. Most homeowners will plug all of their devices directly into the wall receptacle, which is what a GFCI is designed to protect. However, some homeowners will choose to use an electrical outlet that is protected by a circuit breaker instead. With an outlet protected by a breaker, a GFCIf will not trip when too many different devices are plugged into it.
Upgrade Your Home’s Power Receptacles to GFCI Outlets
For a long time, many older homes lacked GFCI outlets, placing their residents at danger of electrical shock. Install these low-cost, possibly life-saving gadgets as soon as possible. To safeguard yourself and your family with a GFCI installation in Atlanta, call MD Electrical Integration at (770) 369-6570 or click here to place a service request.