The other caveat is that only outlets connected to three wires are suitable for DIY replacement. Outlets with only two slots and no third hole indicate the presence of older wiring that should only be replaced by a licensed electrician. Photo: Can I install GFCIs myself?Ī DIYer with basic knowledge of electrical wiring may be able to replace an existing outlet with a GFCI outlet (instructions below), but only when swapping out a three-prong outlet-two plugin slots and a hole. still do not have GFCIs installed in “wet” rooms, and notes that as many as 47 percent of today’s electrocutions could be prevented in older homes if GFCIs were installed. The ESFI estimates that approximately 43 million homes in the U.S. In bedrooms, living rooms, and other areas where water fixtures are not found, regular outlets are fine-and they are still installed in today’s new homes. They should also be installed within six feet of a wet bar and in garages and unfinished basements. In laundry rooms and utility rooms, GFCIs should be installed on outlets within six feet of sinks, washing machines, and water heaters. GFCIs are also required on all receptacles serving kitchen countertops. The NEC requires GFCIs on all exterior and bathroom receptacles (another term for outlets). Older homes are not required to have GFCI outlets unless the wiring is being updated, but it’s a good idea to install them anyway. The National Electric Code (NEC) requires the installation of GFCI outlets in new construction in areas where electrical outlets are in close proximity to water. The rules requiring the installation of the GFCI outlets in new construction has expanded over the years to include more applicable locations: A standard household outlet features two, three-prong plug-in slots, while a GFCI outlet features the same plug-in configuration plus two buttons on its face: a “TEST” button and a “RESET” button. The singular purpose of a GFCI outlet is to prevent electrical injury to humans, something regular outlets are not equipped to do. Because water is an excellent conductor of electricity, the risk of a ground fault occurring is greater in areas of your home where water is commonly used, such as near a kitchen sink. If that different conductor is a human being, the result can be a serious electrical shock or electrocution. It occurs when the electrical current escapes the insulated wires, as a result of a damaged cord or faulty wiring, and flows through a different conductor. Repeat this test at least twice per year.Īs always, if you suspect an issue with your GFCI outlets, or have other home repair needs in Cincinnati, schedule service with ProMaster online, or call 51.A ground fault is the occurrence of electricity taking an unintended path to the ground. Push “RESET” to complete the test process and return your outlet to its normal state. If the light does not go off, contact a professional about replacing your GFCI outlet. If the light bulb in the nightlight goes out, your GFCI has cut the current to the outlet, and is working properly. Push the “TEST” button on your GFCI outlet. Be sure the switch is set to “ON” and that the bulb has illuminated. Plug the nightlight into the GFCI outlet. Most dollar stores or grocery stores will have a wide variety of single-bulb night lights. Obtain a nightlight or other small electrical light to use for testing. How to Test a GFCI Outlet, Step 1:īefore testing, push the “RESET” button on your GFCI outlet. If you discover or suspect an issue with your GFCI outlet, be sure to call a professional home repair company like ProMaster to help fix the problem the right way, safely! Our master craftsmen have a ton of knowledge and experience that can ensure the safety of you and your home. ProMaster Home Repair and Handyman of Cincinnati is happy to provide you with these steps on how to test a GFCI outlet in your Cincinnati home. It is of utmost importance to your safety and the safety of your family to ensure that your GFCI outlets in your kitchen or bathroom are working properly. They do this by cutting power to the outlet in the event water contacts the appliance. GFCI stands for “ground fault circuit interrupters.” These outlets are found in areas of the home where electrical devices may come into contact with water, and prevent electric shock to anyone in contact with such an appliance. Perhaps one of the most under-appreciated safety features in our homes are GFCI outlets.
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