What’s the Deal With GFCI and AFCI Outlets?
The average person is already familiar with the appearance of a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet. These outlets are standard in most homes since building codes require their installation. There’s less familiarity with arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) outlets.
Follow this guide when scheduling outlet updates with your Wexford electrician.
What Is a GFCI Outlet?
A GFCI outlet’s purpose is to detect ground faults and stop the flow of electricity when this type of fault occurs. A ground fault results when damaged wiring or loose connections let electricity travel along an unintended path. By detecting and stopping a ground fault, a GFCI outlet helps to prevent electrocution.
GFCI outlets are typically installed in locations where there’s the presence of water. You’ll find these types of outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, and similar locations. Since water works as a conductor for electricity, ground fault protection is necessary where there’s the possibility of exposing an outlet to water.
What Is an AFCI Outlet?
When there’s a gap in an electrical connection, an electric arc can jump from the wire. In some cases, an arc can jump through the holes in an outlet and cause sparking. In an unprotected outlet, this process leads to electrical fires in the home.
Your Wexford electrician can install an AFCI outlet for protection. When an AFCI outlet detects an arc, it instantly shuts off the flow of electricity to prevent an electrical fire. In rooms that don’t require GFCI outlets, the AFCI outlet provides extra protection.
Where Should Your Wexford Electrician Install Each Type of Outlet?
It’s not always easy to distinguish between GFCI and AFCI outlets. Each type of outlet has “test” and “reset” buttons. They both may have indicator lights as well. Due to these similarities and the complex installation process, it’s always wise to have an electrician install or replace these outlets.
Install GFCI outlets in these locations:
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Crawlspaces
- Outdoor outlets
- Boathouses
- Laundry rooms
AFCI outlets offer the best protection in these areas:
- Family rooms
- Living rooms
- Dining rooms
- Bedrooms
- Closets
- Hallways
- Dens
During an electrical inspection, a certified electrician can determine where your home needs updated outlets. Whether you’re simply evaluating your electrical system or renovating your home, working with an electrician will lead to a fully functional and safe electrical system.
Trust the Leading Electricians With Your Outlet Upgrades
When you schedule an
electrical system inspection with Hogue Electric Services, we’ll evaluate your home’s wiring and outlets. This will help us recommend necessary or optional updates. Our goal is to ensure you can use energy safely and efficiently in your home. Contact us to
schedule service today.
