As homeowners, one of our primary concerns is the safety and security of our families. In the realm of home safety, electrical hazards are often overlooked. But a simple device, known as a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlet, can significantly reduce the risk of electrical shock in your home.
What Is a GFCI Outlet?
A GFCI outlet is a type of electrical outlet that's designed to protect you and your family from electrical shocks. It does this by monitoring the amount of electricity flowing in a circuit and tripping the circuit if an imbalance is detected. This is especially crucial in areas where water and electricity could potentially mix, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
How to Identify GFCI Outlets
GFCI outlets are easy to identify. They look just like standard outlets, but with two additional buttons labeled "Test" and "Reset". The "Test" button allows you to check if the GFCI is working correctly, while the "Reset" button enables you to reset the outlet if it trips.
Why You Need GFCI Outlets in Your Home
The main reason you need GFCI outlets in your home is safety. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, GFCIs could prevent over two-thirds of the approximately 300 electrocutions still occurring each year in the home. This alone makes their installation a worthwhile investment.
In addition to safety, compliance with electrical codes is another reason to install GFCI outlets. The National Electrical Code (NEC) has progressively expanded the requirements for GFCI outlets over the years. As of the latest update, GFCI protection is required in all kitchens, bathrooms, garages, basements, outdoor areas, and laundry/utility rooms—essentially, any area of your home where water and electricity might come into contact.
We Can Help You Install GFCI Outlets
While it's possible for a knowledgeable homeowner to install GFCI outlets, it's usually best to hire a professional electrician. This ensures that the outlets are installed correctly and safely, and that your home meets all relevant electrical codes. The cost of hiring a professional is a small price to pay for the peace of mind and increased safety that GFCI outlets provide.
Now that you know how important GFCI outlets are, it’s time to act. You can improve the safety of your home when it comes to the risk of electrical shock by hiring our pros at Meyer's Companies Inc. to install GFCI outlets in your home.
Contact us online now to learn how you can get started.
