GCFI outlets, or ground-fault circuit interrupters, are an important part of home safety. They were introduced in the 1970s and have since become standard in many homes. But what exactly are they? How do they work? And why is it so important to have them installed correctly by a professional electrician? Let’s take a look at the basics of GCFI outlets and why you should have them in your home.
What are GCFI Outlets?
GCFI outlets (ground-fault circuit interrupters) are electrical outlets that provide additional protection against electrical shock. They essentially monitor the amount of electricity flowing through the outlet, and if there is an imbalance, they will shut off the power automatically. This helps protect people from electrocution and electrical fires caused by faulty wiring or damaged cords.
When Did GCFI Outlets First Enter the Market?
GCFI outlets were first introduced in 1971 as a way to improve safety around water sources like swimming pools and hot tubs, where electrical shocks can be particularly dangerous due to wet surfaces. Over time, these outlets became more common in homes as an extra layer of protection against accidents involving electrocution or shock.
Which Devices Should Use a GFCI Outlet?
GFCI outlets should be used for any device that could potentially come into contact with water or moisture, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, TVs, computers, bedside lamps and more. In some cases – especially if your home was built before 1971 – you may need to replace existing outlets with newer GFCI models for added safety.
What Are The Benefits Of GFCI Outlets Over Standard Outlets?
Besides providing additional safety against electrocution and shock hazards, GFCI outlets also offer other benefits over standard outlets: they’re easier to install than regular ones since they don’t require any extra wiring; they’re more reliable because their circuitry is designed to detect potential problems; and they save energy by automatically shutting off power when not needed.
Are GFCI Outlets Required By Law?
Depending on where you live and what type of device you’re plugging into it, there may be certain laws governing whether or not GFCI outlets must be used in certain areas of your home – such as bathrooms or kitchens where water is present. Additionally, some states may require all new construction projects use GFCIs throughout the entire building. It’s best to check with your local building codes for specific requirements applicable to your area before installing new devices or replacing old ones with GCFIs.
Why Should You Have A Professional Install Your GFCI Outlets?
Because improper installation can lead to serious injuries or even death due to electrocution or shock hazards – it’s always best practice to hire a certified electrician for any kind of electrical work in your home or office space. Electricians have years of experience dealing with different kinds of wiring projects and will make sure everything is done safely and correctly according to local codes and regulations before flipping the switch back on again!