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While the main goal of an electrical outlet is to provide a safe amount of power to your appliances and devices, a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is designed to protect you. These special outlets are often placed in moisture-prone areas and can be identified by their “test” and “reset” buttons. This guide will further explain what they do and why you should have an electrical contractor add them to your home.

What Does a GFCI Outlet Do?

A GFCI outlet works similarly to a circuit breaker. It continuously monitors the electrical current flowing through and will cut the power in as little as 1/40 of a second if it detects an imbalance or excessive current flowing in the wrong direction. This is to prevent electrical shock and reduce the risk of an electrical fire.

Why Should You Update Your Home With GFCI Outlets?

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If your home was built before the 1970s and is still using the same electrical system, it probably doesn’t have GFCIs. The National Electrical Code has been slowly increasing their usage inside and outside the home since this time. They are currently required practically anywhere an outlet could be faced with moisture, including bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and pool areas.

An electrical contractor could update all of your outdated outlets in one afternoon. In addition to getting your home up to code, this would drastically reduce the risk of electrocution and electrical fires, which are responsible for an estimated 51,000 house fires each year.

As GFCI outlets can be easily tested, you can guarantee it is still working with a button press. If the current flow isn’t interrupted when pressing the “test” button, you’ll know to have an electrical contractor visit immediately to check for a potentially dangerous situation.


If several points around your home could be made safer with GFCI outlets, turn to the residential electricians at H & N Plumbing, Heating & Electrical for an upgrade. For over 60 years, these electrical contractors have provided fast and reliable electrical repairs, maintenance, and installation services to Fennimore, WI, and the southwest region. Call them at (888) 822-3258 for 24/7 emergency service, or visit their website to schedule an appointment. 

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