An acronym for Ground Fault Interrupter, a GFI (or GFCI) is a safety outlet designed to disconnect a household current in the event of a leakage, thus preventing electrical shock and fire hazards. A GFI outlet monitors the flow of current – if a ground fault is detected, it will instantly cut the power to protect the user.
Apollo Home recommends GFIs be installed in areas of your home subject to moisture, such as: outdoor areas, swimming pool areas, bathrooms, garages, kitchens (indoor and outdoor), laundry rooms, wet bars/sinks, unfinished basements, and crawlspaces.
How do you know your GFI is working? GFIs contain a sensor comparing current flow to and from the appliance plugged into it. If there is a potential of dangerous change in current, the GFI trips, shutting down its power. If this happens, unplug the appliance and hit the “reset” button on your GFI outlet.
If it frequently trips or won’t reset, consult with an electrician from Apollo Home. We’re available 24/7, 365 days a year.
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There are three kinds of GFIs/GFCIs for home use: receptacle, circuit breaker, and portable.
GFI receptacle – This is the basic GFI outlet, which is installed to replace older, non-GFI outlets.
GFI circuit breaker – These are installed in a panel box to give protection to selected circuits. The GFCI circuit breaker will shut off electricity in the event of a problem; it will also trip when a short circuit or an electrical overload occurs.
Portable GFI outlet – Portable GFCIs are used when there is no GFI installed nearby. For example, you may want to connect your electric lawn trimmer to a GFI outlet, but your garage does not have one. Simply plug a portable GFI into the outlet and plug in the trimmer.
Call Apollo Home and invest in an Apollo Home Care Plan today. The many benefits include an annual electrical evaluation for optimal efficiency and safety of you and your loved ones.
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