13 Safety Considerations When Wiring a GFCI Outlet

Ground-fault circuit interrupter also known as the GFCI outlet protects people from electrical shocks and it works differently from a fuse. In case there is a reason that the current takes an alternative route unbalancing the current carried in the wires then GFCI breaks the circuit, halting the flow of electricity and prevents any shock hazard. GFCI come in three main types namely receptacle, circuit breaking and portable. Once you have chosen the kind of shock protection that suits your needs you are ready to install. There are a number of safety considerations that one should keep in mind when wiring a GFCI outlet. Complying with these safety regulations will help keep the GFCI outlet working efficiently.

If your home is very old then make sure that there are not too many overburdening electrical systems. Sometime older homes have an out dated wiring system that is not designed to take heavy loads or too many electrical appliances working simultaneously. Rewire the home in this case. Older homes should be thoroughly investigated by an electrical expert.

Basic Considerations

1. Check for any worn out wiring devices that may need to be changed.
2. Circuits longer than 100ft can cause the GFCI to trip and prevent it from working efficiently.
3. Damaged extension cords can cause a leak affecting the GFCI system.
4. Using out dated, un-insulated power tools can affect the protection system therefore purchase tools and equipment with approved stamps. Double insulation can reduce the risk of shock.
5. Get advice of a competent electrical expert. Inexperienced people should not attempt to install a GFCI outlet on their own.
6. GFCI receptacles are necessary in kitchens and bathrooms and should be done by a professional technician and never attempted by an amateur.
7. Electrical repairs not done adequately can cause electrical fires.
8. Using cheap products or unsafe, unlicensed products can cause electrical shocks.

Installation Considerations

1. Install tamper resistant outlets to ensure continued safety especially if you have any children or pets around.
2. Check electrical wiring ensuring that it safe for your home. Damage from rats chewing into wires or damage from nails driven into walls can be dangerous. Certain requirements are necessary while using a GFCI outlet and the wiring needs to be in accord with guidelines.
3. Attempting to install the GFCI outlet with no electrical knowledge is not advisable since the information available online or through books cannot take into consideration all the dangers of working with electricity which can be lethal.
4. Once installed GFCI receptacles should be checked regularly to ensure that it is working properly. Learning to test the GFCI receptacle should be necessary for everyone and your electrical technician can help you understand how to use a tester. You can use more than one receptacle to protect your house. Using more than one receptacle can improve the chances of safety.
5. Even after installing GFCI receptacle there are many precautions to take. It does make your home safer but by no means fool proof.