Regulations regarding the installation of GFCI outlets in your home have changed over the years. Additional locations are now mandatory if you are building a new home. According to recent information from the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), home electrocutions decreased by 83% when GFCIs were introduced.
The Basics
Ground fault circuit interruption is integrated in the outlet itself. Basically, the GFCI outlet monitors the amount of power going to the device. Wires covered with rubber- or plastic-based insulation contain the electrical flow. Normally, the electrical current runs safely through the insulated wires to switches and wall outlets to power appliances. However, issues can occur.
A ground fault is the occurrence of electricity taking an unintended path. It occurs when the electrical current escapes the insulated wires. This is often the result of a damaged cord or faulty wiring. In addition, water is an excellent conductor of electricity. Therefore, the risk of a ground fault occurring is greater in the areas of your home where water is commonly used. So, it is best to have GFCI outlets in your kitchen and bathroom. Therefore, if you accidentally drop an appliance into water, the GFCI detects the interruption in current and cuts the power.
Older two-prong outlets should be upgraded to GFCI. For new construction, these outlets are now required for
- Outside
- Bathrooms
- Garages
- All outlets located within a range of six feet from your kitchen sink
- A minimum of one outlet in your basement
- Crawl spaces
- Wet bars
- All kitchen outlets servicing your countertops
- Electrically heated flooring
Tim Kyle Electric: Harford County Electrician
If you do not have GFCI outlets in your home, you are risking your own safety. A Hartford County electrician can safely and efficiently install the outlets you need. At Tim Kyle Electric, our technicians are experienced and trained to make certain your home is as safe as possible. Find out more by contacting us today.