If you live in a home built before the early 1970s, there’s a chance your electrical system is equipped with inefficient or even hazardous outlets. The best way to reduce the risk of fires, electrical shocks, power supply issues, and other problems is to have an electrician replace your old outlets with ground fault circuit interrupter outlets (GFCIs). Here's what you should know about what these are and where they can be installed in your home.

What Are GFCI Outlets?

Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are devices designed to detect the flow of electricity from an outlet to the ground—an occurrence known as a ground fault—and quickly shut off the power if the flow is interrupted or if there is an imbalance between the incoming and outgoing electricity. This is intended to reduce the risk of injury or death or damage to your electrical system.

GFCI outlets resemble standard three-prong outlets apart from two buttons set in the front, one marked “TEST” and the other “RESET.” They can be particularly useful in older homes, which are more likely to have worn or faulty wiring.

Where Should They Be Used?

Electricians typically install GFCI outlets in areas where water or moisture is present on a regular basis, such as kitchens, bathrooms, garages, or laundry rooms. They’re also often used in outdoor areas, such as pools, hot tubs, and other pools of water. According to the National Electric Code (NEC), GFCI outlets must be installed in new homes in rooms or near areas where water is likely to be found. The NEC doesn’t require replacing outlets with GFCIs in older homes, but this is still a safe, energy-efficient step to take.

If you need to replace your aging outlets with safe, reliable GFCIs, you can turn to Mueller Electric in Ashland, KY. In business for over 30 years, these electricians combine extensive experience with the latest technology for energy-efficient, dependable results. Call them at (606) 325-0275 to request a free estimate, and visit their website to learn more about their services.