GFCI Outlet Installation Services in Citrus & Marion County, FL

Providing Prompt GFCI Outlet Installation Services

If your home doesn't have GFCI outlets, it probably isn't up to modern safety standards. Although we don't typically put too much thought into our outlets, the absence of these receptacles can spell danger for you and your family. Fortunately, Mr. Electric of Citrus & Marion County can take care of the issue and bring your home up to current building code standards. We offer exceptional electrician services to residents of Inverness, Homosassa, Crystal River, Le Canto, and Beverly Hills, FL, and we're always happy to meet with new customers. Learn more about GFCI outlet installation and how it can benefit you.

What Is a GFCI Outlet?

A GFCI outlet is a receptacle that features "test" and "reset" buttons on the surface. They're common in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and other areas where you're at the highest risk of electric shock. Unlike a traditional outlet, these receptacles monitor the amount of electricity flowing through the circuit. When the outlet detects an imbalance, it automatically cuts off power to the outlet. This keeps you safe from shock, especially in a high-moisture environment.

Using Your GFCI Outlet

Using a GFCI outlet is easier than you may think. When the outlet stops power flow due to an imbalance, all you need to do is press the marked "reset" button to restore power. Compared with a typical circuit breaker, GFCIs are much more reliable and sensitive to tiny fluctuations in electrical current. They're designed to interrupt power with fractions of a second to keep you are your family safe from electrical shock and other hazards.

Try This Quick Testing Method

Because GFCI outlets serve such a vital purpose, it's a good idea to test all GFCIs in your home each month. Thankfully, the testing process is something you can easily do on your own—no call to an electrician necessary! Here's how we recommend testing your GFCIs:

• Press the "test" button—this will pause the electrical flow.
• Plug a night light or another small device into the outlet. This device should be something that uses very little electricity.
• Check to see if the device is working—if the test button functions correctly, power should no longer flow to the device.
• Push the "reset" button to restore power.

Always Install GFCIs in High-Moisture Areas

Where should I install a GFCI outlet? This is one of the first questions we get when we begin discussing this critical type of receptacle. The short answer is wherever there's a high risk of electric shock due to moisture. Areas with sinks or swimming pools should always be equipped with GFCIs. In fact, they've been mandated for use with swimming pool equipment since 1971. It's in your best interest to install a GFCI outlet in the following areas as soon as possible:

• Spa and pool areas
• Crawlspaces
• Unfinished basements
• Wet bars
• Home exteriors
• Bathrooms
• Garages
• Kitchen countertops
• Laundry and utility sinks

Know the Limitations of GFCIs

While GFCIs are crucial in many parts of the home, they're not designed to function everywhere. For example, we don't recommend using GFCI outlets to plug in refrigerators and freezers. These appliances generate lots of interference and can easily trip the outlet, leaving your fridge without the cooling power it needs. Stoves and dryers also shouldn't be plugged into GFCIs. Avoid powering small heating appliances via GFCI outlets, and refrain from plugging in extension cords with multiple appliances. If this sounds like a lot of rules and restrictions, don't sweat! The team at Mr. Electric of Citrus & Marion County knows how to install a GFCI outlet in all the correct places.

Learn How to Install a GFCI Outlet Today

Without a doubt, GFCI receptacles prevent thousands of electric shocks every year. If your home is operating without them, you're at increased risk of injury. Fortunately, Mr. Electric of Citrus & Marion County is here to complete the installation process quickly and without hassle. GFCIs are inexpensive and easy to install, and we can have the process finished in no time. Contact us today to inquire about GFCI outlet installation.