To the average homeowner, all electrical outlets may look the same. However, your home contains different types of outlets that serve your different electrical needs.
The two types of outlets you’ll find in your home are GFCI and AFCI outlets, which stands for arc-fault circuit interrupters. GFCI outlets will help protect you and your loved ones from electrocution.
What are GFCI outlets?
GFCI outlets, which stands for ground fault circuit interrupter, typically have three holes per plug. The two parallel holes are for neutral and hot wires, and the third hole in the middle of the outlet serves as a ground wire. Typically, they will also have a reset and a test button on the outlet, as well.
These outlets are required in any area that electrical hazards may exist, such as water. GFCI outlets can react within 20 to 30 milliseconds, or less than one-tenth of a second, to help protect you and your family from electrocution by comparing the hot side to the output on the neutral side.
Why do I need GFCI outlets?
Every homeowner needs GFCI outlets as they constantly monitor electrical currents and turn off the current if an imbalance is detected, such as leaking out through a path that it is not supposed to run through, like the human body.
GFCI outlets also protect wires from overheating, which drastically helps reduce the risk of house fires and lowers the risk of burns or shock when someone touches the outlet.
The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires new homes to have GFCI outlets and all replacement outlets for 15 and 20 amp receptacles to have GFCI outlets installed.
Where do I need GFCI outlets?
Anywhere that there is moisture in the air or an outlet is being placed close to a source of water, it’s a good idea — and required — to install GFCI outlets. Think of that outlet close to your bathroom sink or the outlet for your speakers near the hot tub on the deck, these are both essential places for GFCI outlets. However, GFCI outlets should never be used for appliances, such as refrigerators or freezers.
GFCI outlets are required in:
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Laundry and utility rooms
- Garages
- Crawlspaces and unfinished basements
- Wet bars
- The exterior of your home/business
- Spa and pool areas
The NEC requires GFCI outlets on kitchen countertops, in bathrooms, and within 6’ of sinks, bathtubs and shower stalls. They are also required in unfinished basements and crawl spaces, garages, boathouses, laundry areas, and outdoor areas.
GFCI outlets are essential to protecting you and your loved ones from electrocution and burns. Everyone needs GFCI outlets in their homes in any room or space where there’s water nearby. If you’re worried that you might not have GFCI outlets in the right places or you’re concerned the outlets are not tripping when they need to be, call an electrician at Mr. Electric to help evaluate your home, test the outlets and provide you with peace of mind that your house is safe.
