GFCI facts for kids

A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is a special safety device. It is also known as a Residual Current Device (RCD). A GFCI quickly turns off electric power if it senses a problem. This happens when electricity flows where it shouldn't, like through water or a person.

GFCIs help prevent electric shocks. Electric shocks can be very dangerous. They can stop your heart or cause bad burns. GFCIs can also stop some fires. This might happen if a live wire touches a metal pipe.

How GFCIs Work

A GFCI works like a smart guard for electricity. It measures the electric current leaving a power source. This is the "hot" wire. It also measures the current coming back on the "neutral" wire.

If these two currents are not exactly the same, there's a problem. It means some electricity is leaking out. The GFCI then quickly shuts off the power. This happens in a tiny fraction of a second.

After the power goes off, you must fix the problem. Then, you can push the "reset" button to turn the power back on. This button is often red. If the problem is still there, the GFCI will keep shutting off the power.

There is also a "test" button next to the reset button. You should press this button once a month. It checks if the GFCI is working correctly. This helps keep you safe.

Different Kinds of GFCIs

GFCIs come in a few different types. Some are built into your home's electrical system.

• Circuit Breaker GFCIs: These are installed in your main electrical panel. They protect an entire circuit.
• Receptacle GFCIs: These are the most common type. They look like a normal outlet but have "test" and "reset" buttons. You often see them in bathrooms or kitchens.

You can also find GFCIs on appliance cords. Many newer hair dryers have a small box on their cord or handle. This box is a GFCI. Extension cords can also have GFCIs built into them.

GFCIs can make older outlets safer. Some old homes have two-prong outlets. These outlets do not have a ground wire. A GFCI can be installed in place of a two-prong outlet. This makes it safer than using a simple adapter. A special label that says "No Equipment Ground" is put on these outlets. In some countries, "ground" is called "earth."

Where GFCIs Are Needed

Local laws usually require GFCIs in certain places. These are often areas where water is present.

You will usually find GFCIs in:

• Kitchens
• Bathrooms
• Unfinished basements
• Garages
• Outdoors
• Anywhere near a sink

These are all places where water could cause a short circuit. Water can conduct electricity. This makes these areas more dangerous without GFCIs.

Images for kids

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  A GFCI receptacle

• 

  Typical GFCI receptacle found in North America

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  Internal parts of an RCD

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  An opened 3-phase residual-current device

• 

  An example of a rail-mounted RCBO

• 

  A test button on a GFCI

• 

  A GFCI outlet in a North American kitchen.

See also

In Spanish: Interruptor diferencial para niños