GFCI Receptacles

A GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) detects dangerous power conditions and immediately adjusts to protect the user by turning off the electricity to the affected power source.

Two-thirds of all electrocutions in U.S. homes could be prevented if people installed GFCI Receptacles. A ground fault happens when electricity escapes the confines of the wiring in an appliance, or other electricity source takes a shortcut to the ground. When that short cut is through a human, the results can be deadly. Many places inside your home require GFCI Receptacles including your kitchen, bathrooms, garage, outdoors and your basement.

According to the National Electrical Code, a “ground fault” is a conducting connection (whether intentional or accidental) between any electric conductor and any conducting material that is grounded or that may become grounded. The GFCI monitors the flow and if it exceeds certain levels, shuts off the flow in an instant. This is a life-saving device, and you want State-Wide Electric’s licensed electricians to take care of proper installation and maintenance.