Does Your Home Have GFI Safety Outlets?

Safety outlets are among the most effective ways to ensure that your family members and your home are safe from an electrical mishap. Electricity follows the path with the most resistance, which could be a sign that a single surge with a small amount of water could turn into an incredibly fatal event. Installing more modern GFI outlets will turn an accident that could be fatal into an opportunity to learn from the experience.

GFI Safety Outlets - What Are They?

Because of the advancements in the electrical code, more homes are now ordered to install special security outlets to prevent an electrical charge once grounded. The safety outlets are referred to as Ground Fault Interrupters or GFIs for short. They can stop electrical surges that are caused by internal issues or malfunctions of equipment externally. They are required in garages, bathrooms, kitchens, spas, pools, and other locations. In essence, in any area where water may be in the vicinity, a GFI will require the installation of licensed electricians to ensure safety.

How Do GFI Safety Outlets Work?

GFI outlets can detect when electricity is flowing out of their circuit. If a spike or an improper current is recognized, the outlet will turn off the power immediately. For instance, when a person is using the device or tool connected to an emergency circuit and it somehow triggers a surge, rather than being electrically injured, the outlet will turn off the electricity. In many instances, this small change could save the life of a person.

What Do GFI Safety Outlets Look Like?

Electrical outlets that are normal and GFI safety outlets appear different from one another. The GFI outlets are equipped with two tiny buttons on their front. One button is for reset, and the second one is for testing. It is possible to check that your GFI is working properly by connecting a device to it and then pressing the test button. The electricity should be shut off immediately. The most recent button will restore power to the outlet after an examination or when it was interrupted due to the outlet experiencing a surge. Modern GFI outlets are equipped with a tiny light that glows green when the outlet has power.

Disadvantages of GFI Outlets

The advantages of GFI outlets far outweigh the disadvantages. However, we think it's good to talk about them. They can also be switched off with the test button with no expertise of the homeowners. Additionally, the sockets may be unable to function or get faulty with time. Although these are not major issues; however, this is something you should be on guard for.

Home Safety Check

Making sure your home is equipped with GFIs in the most critical areas is crucial. Our expert electricians are ready to visit and inspect your kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, bathrooms, and more.