A GFCI outlet is a ground fault circuit interrupter outlet. They significantly reduce the risk of being severely shocked or electrocuted when plugging something in. Your home's electricity flows through wires insulated with rubber or plastic to prevent shocks, electrocution, or electrical fires. A ground fault occurs when electricity veers off its path and goes toward the ground. This can happen when electrical current escapes its wires because they are damaged or faulty. Ground faults can cause electrical shock or electrocution. The risk is even greater in rooms with a lot of moisture or water, such as kitchens or bathrooms. GFCI outlets can sense a surge of electricity and shut off the flow of electricity to the outlet to prevent injury. These outlets were introduced in the 1970s and have reduced electrocutions by 83%. GFCI outlet installation is now required by law in new construction, and it's recommended you replace certain outlets in your home with GFCI outlets if you haven't already. Call our team of service professionals today to inspect, install, or replace a GFCI outlet in your home.

The primary benefit of installing a GFCI outlet is reducing your risk of electrocution and electrical shock. Other benefits of GFCI outlet installation include the following:

• Reduced risk of electrical fire
• Maintain compliance with local and federal electric codes
• Improve the safety of your home
• Avoid electrical emergencies
• Prepare your home for sale

GFCI outlets also have their limitations. They should not be used for refrigerators or freezers, as the electromagnetic interference they generate can trip GFCI outlets. GFCI outlet installation is also not ideal for stoves or dryers, as those appliances require 240 amp power outlets. A GFCI outlet can also be tripped repeatedly by appliance heating elements, such as those found on toaster ovens, hair dryers, irons, and hair straightening irons. Plugging too many appliances into a power cord can also trip the GFCI outlet the power cord is plugged into.

Your GFCI outlet automatically measures and assesses the flow of electricity to and from the outlet. It will automatically shut off if it senses a surge in electrical current, a higher load than normal, or signs of a ground fault. When the outlet does shut off, you can restore power by pressing the reset button. You may need to flip your breaker switch back to the on position first. You should test your GFCI outlets monthly to confirm they are working properly. To test your outlet:

• Press the test button to shut off the flow of electricity to the outlet.
• Plug a lamp or night light into the outlet to confirm that it is no longer supplying power.
• Press the reset button to restore electrical flow to the outlet.

If any of those steps are unsuccessful, call our team to replace the GFCI outlet.