Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter

The ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is a device that helps to cut out an electric power source if water or another element is going along a path that was not intended to be there. The GFCI device is able to detect these unusual conditions and turns off the electric circuit as a safety precaution. It may also be called a residual current device (RCD). The basic benefit of this type of device is to prevent electric shock of anyone that is nearby. The way the GFCI works is by keeping a constant measurement of the hotter section of the power source in conjunction with the other side of the electrical source. If these two measurements are not the same at any time, the device is set to shut off because it means an outside element is getting in the way. The current is not flowing properly down the right path, so the power is shut off by the ground fault circuit interrupter. In order to keep it working correctly, GFCIs should be tested regularly. They are necessary in certain areas of a home or business, including the garage, unfinished basement, bathroom, or near sinks in the building. It is important to note that the GFCI does not protect you from hazards, but simply shuts down the powerer.