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What is a GFCI?

Bill Lutz | September 23, 2009
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Bill Lutz, an electrician with Generation 3 Electric in Philadelphia, explains a basic electrical term:

A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is a ground fault that is an accidental path between a current and the ground. If you touch a current source and a conduit that leads to the ground (like a water pipe) , you will essentially become a live wire and you can be electrocuted as electricity continuously flows through you.

GFCIs are outlets that can detect a sudden drainage of electricity and will turn off immediately. They measure the current flowing out versus what is flowing in. And if they detect that electricity is leaking via the non-planned path through your body, the circuit will immediately shut off. You might still get a slight shock, but a GFCI will save you from a fatal electrocution.

Filed Under: Electricians, Expert Guides, Featured
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About Bill Lutz

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Studying electrical engineering and earning a degree in architecture has given me a solid advantage in solving the myriad of residential electrical problems. Generation 3 Electrical, Inc. takes pride in every job - building confidence by how we do things - by being prompt, thorough and leaving every job site finished and clean.

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  1. [...] Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs): A ground fault is an accidental path between a current and the ground. If one touches a current source and a [...]

    Prevent Electrical Fires - How to Prevent Electrical Fires | Business Services | Yodle Local Articles – September 23, 2009 , 12:39 PM

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    Electrical Work - All About Electrical Work | Contractors & Construction | Yodle Local Articles – September 23, 2009 , 12:41 PM

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    What is an Arc Fault Breaker and what is an GFCI? « General Electric Circuit Breakers – December 9, 2009 , 2:04 PM

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  5. [...] Bill Lutz is a writer for Yodle, a business directory and online advertising company. Find a Electrical Expert or more Electrician articles at Yodle Consumer Guide. What is a GFCI? [...]

    What is an Arc Fault Breaker and what is an GFCI?-Computer – July 21, 2010 , 12:49 AM

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