All You Need to Know About Installing GFCI Outlet

Alt text – all you need to know about installing gfci outlet

A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter, or GFCI, is an affordable electrical device that offers protection against electric shocks by detecting ground faults. Typically, electricity flows from the hot wire into an electric device and back into the outlet via the neutral wire. However, if the current from the hot wire does not return through the neutral wire and instead finds an unintentional path on the ground, a Ground Fault occurs.

For instance, if a small cut in the hot wire of a device and someone accidentally touches it, their body will provide a path for electricity to flow to the ground, resulting in an electric shock. However, a GFCI detects ground faults and opens the circuit quickly. It continuously monitors the current flowing out of the hot wire and returning to the neutral wire to identify any current difference caused by a ground fault. When it detects a ground fault, it opens the circuit to protect you from an electric shock.

If you want to stay protected from electric shocks, it is essential to install a GFCI. This piece covers everything you need to know about installing a GFCI.

Alt text – right angle power strip, extension cord with switch

Categories of GFCI Devices

There are three primary categories of GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) devices: GFCI receptacles, GFCI circuit breakers, and portable GFCIs.

GFCI Receptacle – A GFCI receptacle, also known as an outlet, looks much like a regular duplex receptacle but offers the added benefit of ground fault protection. Available in both 15A and 20A ratings, these receptacles are mandated by the National Electrical Code for use in certain areas of a residence, including bathrooms and kitchens.

GFCI Circuit Breaker – This category of GFCI is the second most prevalent. They have a similar appearance to regular circuit breakers and require installation in the primary service panel. GFCI circuit breakers provide an advantage over receptacles as they offer protection for the entire circuit against ground faults, while receptacles only protect the devices linked to the outlet.

Portable GFCI – If you are unable to access a GFCI receptacle and require ground fault protection, a portable GFCI device can serve as an alternative solution. These devices resemble extension cords, with one end plugged into a standard outlet while the other end includes a GFCI receptacle housed within a plastic enclosure.

Alt text – outdoor extension cord, 30-amp power strip

Steps to Install a GFCI Outlet

Installing a new GFCI outlet involves taking the old receptacle, wiring the new GFCI outlet, and installing it into a receptacle box. This process of GFCI installation is very straightforward.

Below are some of the steps for a GFCI plug replacement. In each step, the assumptions are that you are replacing a standard duplex outlet with a GFCI outlet and that the old installation had a receptacle box with all the wiring.

1. Shut off the power to the circuit by removing the switch or switching off the circuit breaker.
2. Remove the faceplates and screws from the existing outlet.
3. Loosen the mounting screws and remove the receptacles.
4. Loosen the silver screws and disconnect all neutral wires from the receptacle.
5. Connect neutral wires, pigtail one, and connect it to the WHITE LINE terminal on the GFCI.
6. Disconnect the black hot wires from the used receptacle and pigtail one HOT wire.
7. Now, connect the hot pigtail wire to the HOTLINE GFCI terminal.
8. Take the bare ground wire from the former receptacle and join it to the grounding GFCI terminal.
9. Tuck in the wires carefully and insert the GFCI Outlet slowly into the receptacle box. Secure the outlet firmly to the box using mounting screws.
10. Attach the cover plate before securing it with a screw. Turn the power on and test the new GFCI outlet.

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Terminologies and Devices You Should Understand in GFCI Installation

These are some of the terms you need to understand when it comes to GFCI installation:

GFCI Cable

A GFCI Cable is an extension cord with a built-in GFCI protection mechanism. It is normally used in outside settings where the appliances are near water sources.

GFCI Replacement Plug

A GFCI replacement plug is a plug that has a built-in GFCI protection mechanism. It can replace the standard plug on an electric cord, adding an extra safety layer to the used appliance.

GFCI Extension Cord

You can use a GFCI extension cord instead of a standard extension cord to provide safety against ground fault.

Bulk GFCI Receptacles and Outlets

Bulk GFCI receptacles and bulk GFCI outlets are an economical alternative for those who want to install multiple outlets. They are less expensive than buying individual GFCI outlets. You can also buy bulk wires in a single package for your project.

Switch Power Cords and Extension Cords with Switch

A switch power cord is an extension cord with an on/off switch built into the cord used for controlling the flow of electricity into the system without unplugging the cord. AN extension cord with switch is similar to a switch power cord but with an added extension cord.

Flat Plug Extension Cord

A flat plug extension cord is used in tight spaces where a traditional round plug does not fit.

Alt text – flat cord power strip, 30 amp extension cord

Wrapping Up

It would help to consider factors such as compatibility, price, and brand reputation to settle on the best GFCI outlets. They are relatively inexpensive, and you can save more by buying bulk wires and bulk GFCI outlets and receptacles. With efficient GFCI, you will always be protected from shock and fires.