What is a GFCI Outlet? How does a GFCI Outlet work?

The GFCI full form is a ground fault interrupter that is an outlet or circuit breaker connected in part of the circuit where there are high chances of electrical shock. It will trip when the current in the GFCI line does not return to the neutral side.

The GFCI measures current in line through load and to neutral. That current has the same value as normal operations. If the current from the line is not returning to neutral, the GFCI will trip. Here we will learn different features and related parameters of GFCI. So let’s get started with What is a GFCI outlet.

What is a GFCI outlet?

• The GFCI outlet is the protective component that is made for circuit breaking when the current in the live and neutral wires is not the same or imbalanced. The main use of the GFCI outlet is to avoid overheating and fire hazards in the wiring system.
• Its other work is to avoid ground faults and stop the current flow, but it does not protect against short circuits and overloading as a fuse does.

GFCI Outlet Working

• When GFCI is configured with an electrical outlet and detects the current flowing in the circuit for noting changes.
• There are 3 main holes in GFCI. one hole is neutral, the 2nd is live wire, and the 3rd is used as ground that is in the middle of the outlet.
• If there is a change in the current flow of the circuit, it will cut off the current flow in a circuit.
• Not all types of outlets have protection from electrocution, but GFCI has features to stop electrocution.

Types of GFCI Outlets

 Standard GFCI Receptacle

Standard GFCI receptacles have a design like traditional outlets with test and reset button outlets. Some outlets come with guide lights or pilot power functions. These outlets’ main work is to save us from electrocution as a result of the ground fault.

These outlets can be used in a circuit as single-location outlets for saving use from the single receptacles, or we can connect receptacles for working as multiple-location outlets.

 Self-Testing GFCI

This GFCI type comes with self-testing features as compared to conventional GFCIs. If there is any fault, the exit outlet will send a signal through an LED light from green to red.

GFCI Circuit Breaker

The GFCI circuit breaker is the best option for the protection of the circuit from ground faults where we do not need to connect standard GFCI. It is different from receptacles connected in the breaker box and protecting the complete circuit.

It is best to use in the kitchen for protection from ground faults, and these circuit breakers are working well for circuit protection.

Where is a GFCI outlet needed?

• The main uses of GFCI outlets are places where water is close to electrical outlets. Connecting the GFCI outlet in the kitchen, laundry rooms, and pool area is best to use.
• But it can also be used in a home in any place. NEC says to use GFCI in your electrical circuit system in your home.
• These outlets are also connected to the temporary wiring system that is made at the construction site.

Bathrooms: 

• For bathrooms, 15- and 20-amp outlets are used for the protection of circuits at 125 volts.

Kitchens:

• In the kitchen, GFCI is used close to the sink or wet bar, etc. Try to connect it to a wet area; there is a high chance of shock.

Garages:

• In the garage GFCI circuit, a breaker is used for controlling different outlets and 15- and 20-amp outlets in the garage.

Basements:

• Whether you have an unfinished or finished basement, use GFCI close to a water source. Normally a standard outlet is used.

Water heaters:

• The outlet in 6 feet of water heater GFCI is used.

Boathouses:

• Use 125 volts or more in the boathouse for protection of the circuit.

How to Fix a GFCI Outlet that Keeps Tripping

Why Do GFCI Outlets Trip?

• Moisture in the Receptacle
• Conductive Dust or Debris
• Wire Deterioration
• Ground Fault in the Circuit
• Faulty or Old Outlet

Fixing a GFCI Outlet that Keeps Tripping

Worn Insulation:

• If there is a gap or insulation missing in the wall, it causes moisture or dust particles to pass a trip outlet. So make sure to have properly sealed casing from walls.

Power Overload:

• If there are many devices connected, that causes the outlet to get overloaded and, as a result, tripping. Disconnect some devices and check if it is working. Use a clamp meter to check the leakage current clamp.

Faulty Receptacle 

• GFCI working life is about 15 to 20 years, so if there is an older receptacle, replace it with a new one. If there is a problem occurring due to an older or bad wiring system, get the services of electricians and change it.

GFCI vs. Standard Outlets

• The standard outlet does not protect us from any shock. If we connect any device to an outlet and any error occurs, then there are no safety measures for turning off power connected to the outlet. It can cause electric shock or fire. So the use of GFCI saves us from any damage due to having a failsafe.
• A GFCI outlet, as compared to a standard outlet, comes with one or two lights as an indication. The main light remains green when the GFCI is working well and becomes red if there is any error.