The electrical system in your home is complex. There are several different safeguards in place that keep the electricity controlled in your home. One of those safeguards is GFCI outlets. You more than likely have noticed them around your home. If you see an outlet that has a button that says “test” and one that says “reset” on it, that is a GFCI outlet. These are an important part of your electrical system. Burley Electrical Services is here to talk about why GFCIs are so important and what you need to do if you have some that are showing signs of trouble.
The Purpose of a GFCI Outlet
The main purpose of a GFCI outlet is to monitor the flow of electricity in a circuit. Ideally, you want electricity to flow evenly through the hot and neutral wires. The GFCI outlet is there to catch any inconsistencies that could be problematic. If the outlet notices that there is any power flowing somewhere it shouldn’t, the power to that outlet is cut off immediately to avoid any home damage or injury. This greatly reduces the risk of electrical shock. Abnormalities in the flow of current can be dangerous and lead to shock or electrical fire. This is why it is part of the electrical code for modern houses to have a certain number of GFCI outlets in them.
Areas in Your Home that Require GFCI Outlets
There are several places throughout your home where GFCI outlets are required per electrical codes. These areas are usually where moisture is going to be present.
– Kitchens
– Bathrooms
– Laundry rooms
– Garages
– Basements
– Outdoor outlets
Signs Your GFCI Outlet Needs to Be Replaced
If you’re GFCI outlet has reached the end of its life, you may notice that there are signs it’s time to replace it. It is vital that you don’t ignore these signs as GFCI outlets play such an important role in protecting you and your home.
– You are unable to reset the outlet
– The outlet is constantly tripping
– The outlet is loose and you can move it back and forth
– There is any warmth when you touch the outlet cover
– You have areas that require GFCI protection and it isn’t there
Updating GFCI Outlets in Older Homes
If you live in an older home that doesn’t have GFCI outlets in all the areas that require these as a protective measure, you will want to work with a licensed electrician to bring it up to code. They will be able to evaluate the home and determine what areas could use more protection and what areas are fine.
Electrical Wiring Inspections & More in Pompano Beach, Imperial Point, Plantation, Deerfield Beach, Boca Raton, Davie, Lighthouse Point, Parkland & Fort Lauderdale, Florida
When you have GFCI outlets the need to be fixed, replaced, or installed, you can turn to Burley Electrical Services to take care of it for you. Our team of licensed electricians can ensure your electrical system is safe and up to code. Call us today!
