Expert GFCI Outlet Installation in Metairie, LA

Mr. Electric Makes Installing GFCI Outlets Look Easy

Many technological advancements have been made to ensure electrical systems keep people safe. To save people from electrocution, ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets were invented in 1965. These outlets can be recognized by their "Test" and "Reset" buttons and are installed in rooms prone to moisture exposure, including the kitchen, laundry room, and bathroom. GFCI outlets are considered essential safety devices for homes today, and the National Electrical Code even requires them.

If your home needs GFCI outlets professionally installed in Metairie, LA and the surrounding areas, including Covington and Madisonville, the licensed electricians at Mr. Electric of North Shore and Metairie can help. With years of experience providing GFCI outlet installation services, we'll inspect all your outlets to ensure everything is working safely, reliably, and up to code. Reach out to our team today to learn more!

What Is a GFCI Outlet?

GFCI outlets offer advanced safety features that standard outlets do not. While they don't look much different, they're constantly monitoring the amount of electricity flowing through the outlet. If the device you have plugged in suddenly draws more electricity from the outlet or begins to leak electricity, the outlet will automatically trip, grounding the excess electricity within 1/30^th of a second. GFCI outlets were invented to prevent electrical shocks and damage when water enters the outlet through its holes.

Where Do GFCI Outlets Need to Be Installed?

Since their implementation in the late 1960s, the National Electrical Code has increased the use of GFCI outlets. While they were initially only required around swimming pools and spas, they're now required in nearly any room that's regularly wet or prone to moisture. A basic rule of thumb is to have GFCI outlets installed within six feet of all sinks and near appliances such as washers, refrigerators, and dishwashers. The list below includes every room that should have GFCI outlets according to the most recent 2020 Electrical Code. If you have rooms in your home that need GFCI outlets installed, let the experts at Mr. Electric get your property up to code. GFCI outlets have been required:

Around pools and spas since 1971
On exterior outlets since 1973
In bathrooms since 1975
In garages since 1987
On kitchen countertops since 1987
In crawlspaces and unfinished basements since 1990
In wet bars since 1993
In Laundry and utility rooms since 2005

Testing Your GFCI Outlets

GFCI outlets are relatively simple to operate, but it might be confusing if you've never had to reset them before. If your outlet isn't powering your devices that are plugged in, you should try resetting it by pressing the "Reset" button. If that doesn't restore power to the device, you can try testing the outlet. To test your GFCI outlet:

Push the "Test" button to trip the breaker, stopping the flow of electricity.
Plug in a small electronic device, like a nightlight. The device should not light up or receive power at this point.
Press the “Reset” button. Power should return to the outlet, allowing the electronic device to light up or power on.

Is There Anywhere I Shouldn't Install a GFCI Outlet?

GFCI outlets aren't appropriate for every area or appliance in your home. Some devices, including space heaters, toaster ovens, and irons, produce heat or electromagnetic interference that can cause GFCI outlets to trip frequently, deeming them ineffective. Refrigerators and freezers can also produce a slight electromagnetic field that can confuse the GFCI outlet and cause it to trip. You should also avoid plugging extension cords or power strips into GFCI outlets whenever possible because the electricity required to power multiple devices can prevent your GFCI outlet from working correctly.

Request your GFCI Outlet Installation Appointment Online!

You can ensure your home has GFCI outlets professionally installed in all the right places with the help of the licensed electricians at Mr. Electric of North Shore and Metairie. Our GFCI installation services are quick, reliable, and affordable. We're happy to answer any questions, whether you're curious about our outlet installation process or want an estimate for the cost to install GFCI outlets in Metairie and the surrounding areas, including Covington and Madisonville, LA. Contact us today or request an appointment online now for expert GFCI outlet installation services!