A GFI, or ground fault interrupter, is sometimes called a ALCI, or appliance leakage current interrupter

In short, a GFI is a safety switch designed to protect inhabitants in the event that current is leaking at a greater rate than 4-6 mA in 25 milliseconds. While the term GFI sounds as though it may be the same device, the settings are different. These are usually set much higher at about 30mA of current. The difference is that a GFI is intended to prevent damage to equipment, while GFI wiring is intended to prevent injury to people. They are both options to use in wet areas to reduce the chance of electrocution or damage to appliances. They are often found in kitchens and bathrooms where there is bound to be water. The cost of a GFI outlet is minimal. You can purchase a GFI with an LED to show you that you have power. The light goes out when you do not. The mechanisms measure the electricity in the hot and neutral wires. The measurement of both wires must be the same or the breaker shuts off the power.

GFI wiring can be done in three different ways

In a standalone GFI circuit installation there are 3 wires. When you look inside the junction box, you should find a hot wire coming in, a neutral and a ground. This is connected in the same manner as any other outlet.

Mid-line GFI circuit installation has at least 6 wires. The junction box should include a neutral, a ground and another neutral and ground each going out with a hot. This GFI circuit is wired the same as a regular outlet as well. This is handy to use multiple GFI outlets. When a breaker flips, you will have power to the rest of the outlets. This way you will know which appliance is at fault.

GFI wiring protecting multiple outlets includes 6 or more wires. You'll have 2 each of the hot, neutral and ground. You'll be able to use regular outlets.

GFI circuit outlets are safety features

The outlets will have buttons on them. These are intended to test and reset the outlet. When an appliance fails tripping the outlet, the reset button pops out. Remove the appliance and reset the outlet. If the appliance trips the outlet again, you know that it is faulty and should be replaced immediately. You should also be sure to use your tester when you've completed your work. They are not expensive and are easy to find. The lights on the tester will show you whether it is operating correctly. Lastly, contact a professional. You should have checked with the local codes department before beginning your work to request a permit if necessary. You can also ask any questions you may have before you get started. Often, the department may be able to recommend a licensed electrician to inspect your work, or they may have their own inspector to send out for you. Always, defer to the professional if you are unsure of something rather than risk injury to yourself or others.

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