Ground fault outlets or GFCI outlets, are installed when an electrical outlet is close to water. A GFCI should be installed in your kitchen, bathroom, laundry and outdoors not just because it is extremely safe but because it is required by law.

A GFCI monitors the current flow in the two wires. If it experiences any change in the electrical flow, it immediately cuts the flow of electricity prevent harm to your and your home!

Here are the three main advantages to having GFCI outlets:

#1 Shock Prevention

Every GFCI outlet has a built-in sensor that monitors the inflow and outflow of electricity from your appliances. If a live wire inside your appliance, such as a toaster, is in contact with the metallic surface of your toaster,  then you will receive a shock if you the toaster. However, if the appliance is plugged into a GFCI outlet, the outlet will become aware of the change in electrical flow occurring  and it will immediately shut down the power preventing shock.

#2 Fire Prevention

Ground faults can cause electrical fires, so it is safe to say that one of the advantages of installing a GFCI outlet is the prevention of fires. Although electrical fuses do offer basic protection against electrical fires, when they are combined with a GFCI outlet, you never have to worry about an electrical fire harming your home or workplace.

#3 Prevention of Damage of Appliances 

Over a period of time, as insulation breaks down, a certain amount of electric current begins to leak into household appliances or other electronic items causing permanent damage to your devices. If the outer body of the equipment is not made of metal, you may not get a shock, but this constant leakage of current will damage the equipment. A GFCI outlet detects the electrical leak and shuts down the circuit. This can help prevent expensive equipment and appliances from getting damaged due to electrical leaks.

Cardoso Electrical installs ground fault circuits  for residential and commercial properties. Call 781-246-7700 or 781-246-9800.  We’re available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.