Ensuring your electrical work is up to current standards is an important aspect of home safety. Older homes, in particular, may have outlets that are outdated and thus not as safe as modern ones, such as the ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet. Discover more about this important safety feature to determine if you might need help from a residential electrician below.

What Is a GFCI Outlet?

To understand how GFCI outlets keep you protected, you must first consider the concept of ground faults. Under normal circumstances, electricity flows to and from outlets via wires. When current escapes this natural path due to faulty wiring, however, it naturally travels towards the ground via whatever conductor is available. Known as a ground fault, this can result in fires and electrocution.

GFCI outlets were developed to prevent the damage caused by ground faults. These intuitive outlets have built-in sensing systems which monitor the flow of electricity. If a ground fault is detected, an internal switch will be triggered to stop the electricity. While minimal shock may still occur, the outlets can usually prevent serious injuries or damage.

Where Should You Have Them?

Since water is a major conductor for electricity, you should have GFCI outlets installed near sinks and other water sources in your home. Outlets in kitchens and bathrooms, for instance, should have them. A residential electrician can outfit your home with these features if you don’t already have them.

GFCI outlets were developed in the 1970s, so only older homes that haven’t been updated are likely to be missing them. Yet, over the years, they have been increasingly installed in more and more places. For instance, while they were originally only required within six feet of a sink, they must now be used in all outlets above a kitchen countertop. If there are any spaces in your home that may require them, recruit a residential electrician to ensure the installation is completed safely.

Whether you’re seeking an electrical upgrade or you have a new project in mind, Bonham Electric, Inc. is your source for quality electrical services in Dayton, OH. This commercial and residential electrician has been serving the community since 1959 and specializes in full-service electrical work, including rewiring, installations, and repairs. Learn more about their services online or call (937) 233-7662 to discuss your needs with one of their team members.