The terms GFCI and TR may seem overwhelming, but don’t fret; these designations refer to safety features in your home’s electrical system. Without the proper safeguards, simple use of an outlet may lead to an electrical shock or burn due to improper use or to adverse conditions like damaged cords or appliances and the presence of water or dampness. That’s why GFCI outlets are essential – and required – safety devices for every home. They keep you from being electrocuted.
With the latest code in place, even GFCI protected outlets need to be tamper-resistant. According to 406.12, all types of outlets 15A and 20A, 125V receptacles in wet areas must be tamper-resistant to reduce the risk of electrical hazards.
The current National Electrical Code (NEC) requires GFCI protection in wet areas, including bathrooms, swimming pools, jetted tubs, crawl spaces, kitchens, laundry rooms, garages, exteriors, hot tubs and any areas that could come in contact with moisture. The devices help prevent you from being electrocuted in the event of a short circuit or ground fault.
What is a GFCI?
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is a device that instantly shuts off the power when it detects an imbalance in current.
When there is a difference between how much electricity goes out and comes back from an appliance or tool through its hot wire (the wire carrying voltage), this indicates that some of the electrical currents are going somewhere they are not supposed to go.
When this happens, the GFCI senses it and shuts off power before an electrical problem becomes a more significant issue and someone gets hurt.
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GFCIs work by comparing how much electricity is coming in (the line voltage) with what’s going out (the load or “neutral” wire). If there is a difference, the GFCI turns off the power, so you don’t get shocked.
Did you know? NEC requires you to install GFCI outlets in new construction, and some remodel jobs near water sources like sinks and tubs or outside walls that might contact rainwater. You can also use them as a safety measure in your home’s electrical system.
The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires all 15 and 20 amp, 125-volt receptacles within six feet of a water source like sinks or tubs to be protected by GFCI outlets and those installed outdoors an exterior wall that could come into contact with rainwater.
Types of GFCI Outlets
There are different types of GFCIs. The three most common include:
- The GFCI Outlet is the standard TRR outlet you are most likely to see in your home. It has two buttons on the front that you can press to test or reset the outlet. The outlet protects any appliance plugged into it, and you can also wire it to cover other outlets connected to it.
- The GFCI Circuit Breaker– A GFCI circuit breaker is used with large electrical equipment to protect. It controls and covers the entire circuit. It works by constantly monitoring the power going through it and turning it off if something goes wrong.
- Portable GFCI– A portable GFCI is a device that you can plug into any standard outlet. It protects an entire cord or piece of equipment. Contractors often use portable GFCIs on worksites.
How Does a GFCI Work?
A GFCI outlet monitors electricity flowing out of an outlet and on its way back into the source. It immediately shuts off the power if it senses a difference – meaning some current is going somewhere it’s not supposed to go. The circuit breaker’s purpose is to block electric power in the event of a ground fault in