GFCI Outlets & Receptacles

Choose a GFCI receptacle based on the circuit amperage, installation location, and required safety features. Common options include 15A and 20A GFCI outlets, along with tamper-resistant (TR), weather-resistant (WR), self-test, and blank-face models.

For outdoor or damp locations, look for a weather-resistant GFCI. For residential areas where tamper resistance is required, choose a TR GFCI. Always verify the circuit requirements, product specifications, and applicable electrical codes before installation.

Choose a GFCI receptacle that is appropriate for the branch circuit and application. A 15A GFCI uses the standard 5-15R configuration, while a 20A GFCI has a T-shaped slot designed to accept 20A plugs.

A 20A receptacle should not be installed on a 15A circuit. For more help choosing between them, see our 15 Amp vs. 20 Amp GFCI Outlets guide.

When issues with an electrical current are detected, the GFCI can be manually reset using the red RESET button and the black TEST button near the middle of the receptacle. The TEST button tests the safety function of the GFI. The safety function is the ability of a GFCI to trip the outlet and shut off power when there is a fault in the current.

Testing a GFI Outlet:

• Push the RESET button on the outlet to prepare for testing.
• Plug in any electrical appliance, such as a hair dryer. The device should be on.
• Press the TEST button. You will hear a clicking sound, signaling that the outlet was tripped, automatically shutting power off.
• Then press the RESET button. The light should turn back on. If the device does not come back on, your receptacle is malfunctioning and should be replaced.
• If the receptacle stays on after pressing the TEST button and it failed, replace the GFCI as quickly as possible.

You can also test your receptacles using alternative devices:

• GFI Outlet Testers: These inexpensive devices can also test non-GFCI-protected, standard outlets. The indicators show if the wires have reversed polarity, open neutral or open hot leads, or if the outlet has proper grounding.
• Voltage Test/Multimeter: A multimeter or voltmeterdevice can test if power is reaching the outlet. It can also check if an outlet is grounded properly or test if wires are reversed using their probed attachment.

On top of that, GFCI circuits can still supply power to appliances or lights regardless of if the safety function is working. For this reason, it is suggested that you test your receptacle at least once a month.

Fun fact: The NEC requires that all GFI manufactured after June 2015 have self-testing and end-of-life indicator functions. Unfortunately, most local codes have not adopted this electrical safety requirement.

The most common reasons for your GFCI device to trip are:

• Worn out insulation
• Conductive dust or debris
• Water (especially with an outdoor outlet)
• Electrical wiring deterioration
• Mis-wiring
• Short circuits in the wire
• Overloaded circuit
• Reached end-of-life

If your device does trip, simply click on the RESET button to set it back to operational. However, if it continues, please consult a certified electrician to find the cause before it leads to bigger problems.

Both devices provide the same ground fault protection. GFCI must be tested and reset at the panel while its counterpart happens at the individual wall outlet. The main difference is that all outlets wired on that circuit breaker will become ground fault interrupter receptacles.

Why would you want the outlet version when the breaker version protects the entire branch? It comes down to cost. On average, the receptacle type is 75% cheaper.

Fun fact: Any receptacle wired in series to a GFCI will also gain its safety feature.

While GFCIs protect against ground faults, AFCIs protect against arc faults.

An Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) shuts off the flow of electricity if it detects electrical arcing. This occurs when there is a gap between the path of the current. Once an arc happens, it can lead to an electrical fire.

There are many reasons why this could happen:

• Damage to the wire due to physical abuse or accident.
• Natural aging of the plugs or any electrical components connected to that circuit
• Constant exposure to heat sources.

Whether you’re working on a DIY home improvement project or are an experienced contractor, you’ll find everything you need at HomElectrical. In addition to GFCI outlets and other electrical supplies, we carry an extensive selection of LED lighting products and accessories.

To learn more, contact HomElectrical at 888.616.3532 or create an account to start getting great deals today.