Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)

What is a GFCI Outlet?

GFCI outlets are just like any other electrical outlets at home; the only difference is that they have their own built-in breaker. The thing about breakers is that they often save you a lot of money, even when you’re not aware of it.

There are times when your appliances may break down, leaving you scratching your head in confusion as to what caused them to malfunction randomly. More often than not, the cause of this would be inconsistent electrical surges and ground faults. This means that the appliance itself took far too much electricity for its own good, potentially “frying” its electrical components from the inside. A breaker would prevent this from happening by ”tripping” its functionality, a method in which the surges and currents would be halted, saving your appliances in the process.

What would be the possible causes of my GFCI Tripping Randomly?

A number of things may cause a GFCI trip. If ever you’d experience any one of these, take time to analyze the situation and approach it with enough caution to avoid being electrocuted.

1. A Worn Out Wiring
   
   A GFCI may be able to detect if there’s a ground or an electrical current leaking from your wirings. In such a case, check all of the surrounding wirings after a random trip. Rubber insulators often experience wear and tear over time, and they can get dangerous, especially if they’re exposed to water or other forms of moisture.
   
   
2. An Overloaded Outlet
   
   There’s a reason why you shouldn’t plug everything in a single outlet. They could either get overloaded or overheat from all of the current running through them due to multiple appliances. In such a case, they may also trip themselves in order to prevent overheating, and in some worst cases, fire damage.
   
   
3. An Old GFCI Outlet
   
   As with all forms of devices, they also get old and deteriorate over time. If you happen to experience regular GFCI trippings without encountering or detecting any of the other causes, you may need to replace the outlet itself! The good news is that they are not even expensive, so you may buy as many spares as you like.

Protect Your Home with GFCI Outlets

As technical as they may be, GFCI outlets are definitely a lifesaver. Aside from the fact that they protect your appliances, further enabling you to save in the long run, they also protect your home from any possible offset of fire or electrical damage. Despite their size, they can pretty much withstand any sudden surge in your electrical currents, and they can also last for years! 

About B Town Electric Electrical Contractors Serving Western, MA

If you are looking for licensed electricians near you who could handle all your electrical concerns and can safetly install GFCI Outlets,  contact us at B Town Electric. We are an OSHA 10 certified company in Belchertown, MA, with years of experience working with residential, commercial, and industrial electrical projects in the area.  We offer free estimates on all projects and provide electrical services throughout all of Western Massachusetts.