Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)

Non-GFCI Breaker

GFCI are purchased as GFCI receptacles or special GFCI circuit breakers for shock protection and are required by the National Electric Code in locations where there exists a shock hazard because those locations generally can become wet in some way. Locations where GFCI's are required are (but not limited to):

 Ground-fault Circuit Interruper Locations

• Outdoor receptacles

• Kitchen receptacles

• Bathroom receptacles

• Unfinished basements

• Detached wired garages

• Crawl spaces

• Garages (some exemptions apply for garages)

• Receptacles permanently installed but used temporarily in construction processes

How GFCI's Work

A typical non-GFCI circuit breaker is rated in amps and will trip when the amp draw approaches the rated breaker amperage. GFCI receptacles and breakers senses the difference in current draw between the hot wire and the neutral wire for 120 and both hot wires for 208 through 240 volts. If the difference in current exceeds 4 to 6 milliamperes the GFCI receptacle or circuit breaker will trip disconnecting the power to that GFCI receptacle or circuit after the GFCI breaker. The trip time for the GFCI circuit breaker or GFCI receptacle is 1/40^th of a second. This quick, low current trip of the GFCI breaker or receptacle is far lower than the standard breaker and offers shock protection for locations where it is possible to be electrocuted. Wet locations increase the chances of someone becoming severely injured or worse by electrical appliances and tools and GCFI receptacles and GFCI circuit breakers provide a higher level of electrical shock protection for dwelling occupants and electrical power users and this is the reason why it is required by the National Electrical Code.

Find this article useful? Share it with others!