A GFCI Circuit Breaker Explained

A GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) circuit breaker is a safety device that detects a problem in the electric flow and immediately disconnects the electricity to prevent accidents. In addition to this, it also monitors the electric current flowing through a circuit and breaks the circuit when there is a mismatch. A GFCI circuit breaker is therefore multifunctional, and also much more accurate. It can detect electricity mismatches that are very minute, thereby preventing potentially dangerous situations.

A GFCI is an important safety addition to your home power supply and can protect you and your loved ones from electric shocks and burns. Because the GFCI cuts off the power supply it greatly reduces the devastation that can be caused by a fire. It is also very useful in preventing electric fires.

Mode of Operation

An electrical circuit consists of a hot node, which is connected to the power grid that supplies electricity, and a neutral node, which is connected to the ground. A GFCI monitors the current flow through the circuit, and when there is a difference or imbalance in the current in the two nodes it breaks the circuit to stop the flow of current. An imbalance in the current between the two nodes means that there is a leakage or loss of current somewhere outside the circuit, which can cause dangerous accidents.

The current that is being leaked will seek a path to the ground. If a person is touching the appliance in question the current will flow through their body, causing a fatal shock. There are several electrocution deaths that occur every year, most of which can be prevented by properly using a GFCI circuit breaker.

Efficiency

A GFCI can detect changes in current flow as minute as 5 milliamperes. Thermal circuit breakers, electromagnetic circuit breakers, and conventional circuit fuses require much stronger electric charges to be activated and to break the circuit when there is a potentially dangerous situation. GFCI circuit breakers are thus much more efficient and accurate.

Usage

A GFCI circuit breaker can be installed in the main circuit board of your home. It can protect an entire circuit, and you do not have to use multiple fuses or circuit breakers. Before purchasing a GFCI circuit breaker, make sure it is compatible with the electric wiring in your home. If you use fuses in an older electric setup you can not install a GFCI circuit breaker in your electric panel. You can, however, protect your appliances by using GFCI outlets in place of standard electric outlets. A GFCI outlet protects the appliances that are plugged into it.

GFCI circuit breakers have a test button that you can use to test the device once it has been installed. When you press the test button, the device must break the circuit and shut off the power supply in the concerned circuit. Sometimes the GFCI circuit breaker can trip the circuit repeatedly, which can be a problem. To avoid this type of tripping, keep your appliances and wiring safe from moisture. You can also disconnect appliances, one at a time, to find out which one is causing the problem.