How to Install GFCI Outlets in San Marcos, TX?

Mr. Electric Offers Satisfactory GFCI Outlet Installation Costs

Mr. Electric shows customers how to install GFCI outlets in San Marcos, TX. We have provided electrical services to nearly 200 locations worldwide since 1994. Our company is known as a “Franchise 500” organization, in which we’ve been able to assist customers in residential and commercial settings. Our technicians are fully trained and equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for any electrical scenario. If you desire to enhance the quality of your system, we can show you how to install a GFCI outlet without ground, depending on the structure of your building. Contact us today for your electricity and energy needs.

Mr. Electric electrician inspecting outlet

What is a GFCI Outlet?

GFCI stands for ground fault circuit interrupters, which are outlets required in kitchens, bathrooms, and garages. They are mainly installed in any room with high electrical shock risk. GFCIs are the “test” or “reset” buttons on the outlet. They protect against electrical hazards by monitoring how much electricity flows through a circuit. When there is an imbalance, the GFCI turns off the power supply and aids in preventing fires, amongst other dangerous occurrences.

How Do You Use a GFCI Outlet?

If your GFCI outlet cuts off the power flow, you can press the “reset” button to bring the electric current back. These systems are reliable and sensitive to small changes in your protection. They are created to cut off electricity before an electric shock occurs to prevent detrimental effects on your body. It’s crucial to test all your GFCI outlets monthly to ensure they function properly and effectively.

What Are the Steps for Testing a GFCI Outlet?

For the utmost safety, you should test your GFCI outlets at least once a month. It is a simple procedure that only requires a few steps. Consider the following when making sure your system is successfully intact:

Press the “test” button to cut off the electrical flow to the outlet.
Plug in a small object that only uses a small amount of electricity to ensure no currents flow to the outlet.
Press the “reset” button to bring the power flow back to the system.

What Requires a GFCI Outlet?

GFCI outlets have been required in homes since 1971. They were an essence for swimming pool equipment, including the exterior walls around the pools. Several additional areas of your property mandate these outlets today, especially where there is a high risk of electrical shock. Some of the locations where they are installed include:

Your home’s exterior
Spa and pools
Bathrooms
Kitchens
Garages
Laundry areas
Crawlspaces
Wet bars

What Are the Limitations of GFCI Outlets?

Older GFCI’s have some limitations, which is a good reason to upgrade to newer generation GFCI’s. Updating to newer GFCI’s can help reduce nuisance tripping. Today’s GFCI’s also come with a self-test feature that should alert you if the GFCI fails. It’s always a great idea to periodically test your GFCI’s.

Why Should You Choose Mr. Electric for Your Electrical Services?

Mr. Electric provides dedicated electrical services to San Marcos, Buda, and Lockhart for safety and comfort. You may ask, “How long does it take to install a GFCI outlet?” Our trained professionals are fully equipped to get the job done in less than half a day, depending on the size and scenario of the building. If your GFCI outlet is not working after installation, we will continue to work until the job is complete. Contact us today for your needs.