Understanding and Troubleshooting a GFCI

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Understanding a GFCI

A ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is a safety device that can save your life. It protects you from an abnormal electrical current flow due to a short. When an electrical current is operating correctly, an equal amount of power is flowing to and from the intended target on two wires. If that current becomes disrupted, part of the current is taking another path. A GFCI senses the change in the current flow and immediately shuts off the power to the target. National and local codes require GFCI outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, basements and outdoors for new homes. In most cases you can replace standard receptacles with GFCI receptacles. You can also have GFCI circuit breakers installed in your service panel. Plug-in GFCI adapters and GFCI extension cords are also available.

Troubleshooting a GFCI

First check the wiring if a GFCI trips constantly or fails to reset when you push the button. Turn off the power to the receptacle at the service panel and verify that no power is reaching the box. Remove the cover plate and then the screws holding the GFCI in place. Carefully pull out the GFCI and inspect the wires, the connections should be tight and wires should not be making contact with anything except the terminal screw. As a precaution against short, wrap the terminal screws with tape. If your newly installed GFCI doesn’t operate correctly, make sure the wires have been connected. Push the GFCI into the box, attach the screws and the cover plate, restore power and test. If the problem persists, you should replace the GFCI. Have an electrician check the circuit if necessary.