Skip to Main Content Skip to Footer Content

Mr. Electric Blog

Home Safety

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter Outlets

GFCI written in the center of a black background with some HTML code written on it.

Essential home safety devices, GFCI outlets, or ground fault circuit interrupters, protect you and your family from electrical shocks, particularly in water and moisture-prone areas of your home. Easy to recognize and simple to install, these devices offer an inexpensive way to increase electrical safety in your home – and bring it up to code.

GFCI Identification

Commonly located in bathrooms, kitchens, and garages where the risk of electrical shock is greater due to water and other hazards, identifying GFCI outlets is simple - just look for the “test” and “reset” buttons located on the receptacle.

GFCI Operation

GFCI outlets monitor the amount of electricity flowing through a circuit – like a small, extra-sensitive circuit breaker built right in to the outlet. When GFCI outlets detect even a relatively small imbalance, a circuit is tripped and the outlet immediately stops the flow of electricity. Working faster than a circuit breaker, GFCIs are designed to operate before electricity can affect your heartbeat - in as little as one-thirtieth of a second. Once a GFCI it tripped and conditions are confirmed to be safe, electricity can quickly and easily be restored without a single trip to the breaker box. Simply press the “reset” button to restore power.

GFCI Maintenance

Like the smoke detectors in your home, periodic monthly inspection is recommended to ensure GFCI outlets are functioning properly for the event of a potential electrical hazard. Testing is fast and easy. Simply press the “test” button and confirm the outlet has cut off the flow of electricity with a night light or other portable appliance, then press “reset” to restore power to the outlet.

GFCI Locations

GFCI outlets have been required in homes since 1971, where they were first mandated for use with swimming pool equipment. Today, GFCI outlets are required to meet code in areas where the risk of electrical shock is increased due to exposure to risk factors such as water. For the utmost safety, ensure your home has GFCIs in all the following areas:

  • Bathrooms
  • Kitchens (even dishwashers)
  • Laundry areas (with or without a sink)
  • Pool and spa areas
  • Wet bars
  • Garages
  • Crawlspaces and unfinished basements
  • Outdoor areas

GFCI Limitations

Though GFCI outlets can protect you against electrocution – even in outlets that are not grounded – they are not recommended for use with refrigerators, freezers, or other appliances that could trip without your knowledge.
Older home? Add a little inexpensive life insurance with the help of GFCI outlets. Contact your local Mr. Electric professional today.

A breakdown of ground fault circuit interrupters.

Book an Appointment

About Mr. Electric

Established in 1994, Mr. Electric® is a global franchise organization providing electrical installation and repair services. Recognized by Entrepreneur magazine among its “Franchise 500,” Mr. Electric franchisees provide these services to both residential and commercial customers at almost 200 locations worldwide. Mr. Electric is a subsidiary of the Neighborly® family of service franchises.
Learn More

Our Special Offers

Just mention the coupon below when scheduling your appointment, and we will check your home’s electrical system for signs of deterioration. It’s one more way we demonstrate our commitment to our clients’ safety and happiness.

  • $25 Off

    Any Electrical Service

    Services vary by location. Services performed by independently owned and operated franchises. New Customers only. Limited time offer. Valid for new and existing tenants and homeowners. No cash value. Not valid for diagnostic fees. Coupon expires 12/31/2024. Coupon must be presented at time of estimate. Not valid with any other offer and/or discounts. Valid only at participating locations. Locally owned and independently operated franchise companies. Other restrictions may apply. ©2023 Dwyer Franchising LLC. 1010 N. University Parks Dr., Waco, TX 76707.

    For additional terms, visit: neighborly.com/terms-of-use.

    Expires: 12/31/2024 Thunderbolt watermark.
    Claim Offer
  • Complimentary Home Electrical Safety Check

    Services vary by location. Services performed by independently owned and operated franchises. New Customers only. Limited time offer. Valid for new and existing tenants and homeowners. No cash value. Not valid for diagnostic fees. Coupon expires 12/31/2024. Coupon must be presented at time of estimate. Not valid with any other offer and/or discounts. Valid only at participating locations. Locally owned and independently operated franchise companies. Other restrictions may apply. ©2023 Dwyer Franchising LLC. 1010 N. University Parks Dr., Waco, TX 76707.

    For additional terms, visit: neighborly.com/terms-of-use.

    Expires: 12/31/2024 Thunderbolt watermark.
    Claim Offer

Find Your Local Mr.Electric!

Let us know how we can help you today.

Call us at (844) 866-1367
image-alt