GFCI Can Save Lives but What Happens When It Stops Working?

Gfci Not Working

According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical fires are responsible for about 500 deaths and over $1.3 billion in property damage every year in the United States. These statistics are alarming, and it is crucial for homeowners to take necessary precautions to prevent such incidents from happening. One of the most crucial fire prevention measures is Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs). GFCIs are electrical devices designed to protect people from severe electric shocks and electrical fires caused by ground faults. In simpler terms, GFCIs are designed to shut off power to an electrical circuit when it detects a leakage of electricity.

B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, understands the importance of GFCIs and specializes in their installation and maintenance. With over seventeen years of experience, our licensed electricians have been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and the greater Providence area. Our commitment to safety and customer service makes us the go-to electrician for all your residential and commercial electrical needs.

However, we often receive calls from homeowners in the 02910 zip code of Cranston, Providence, who are concerned that their GFCIs are not working. In this article, we will discuss why GFCIs stop working and what you can do to keep them functioning correctly to ensure the safety of your home and family.

Possible Reasons Why GFCIs Stop Working

A GFCI should be tested monthly by pressing the test button to make sure it is functioning correctly. If the GFCI fails to trip, it may be an indication of an underlying problem. Here are some of the possible reasons why your GFCI may not be working:

1. Age and Wear and Tear

Like all electrical devices, GFCIs have a lifespan and can wear out over time. If your GFCI is more than a decade old, it may need to be replaced. Additionally, GFCIs installed in areas with high humidity or exposure to extreme weather conditions may wear out faster, necessitating regular replacement.

2. Tripped GFCIs

A GFCI is designed to trip and cut off electric power whenever it senses a sudden change in current, which indicates a leakage or ground fault. In most cases, pushing the reset button should restore power. However, if the GFCI frequently trips, it could be a sign of an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

3. Faulty Wiring or Connections

If your GFCI frequently trips, it could indicate faulty or damaged wiring or connections. This could be caused by old or worn-out wiring, improper installation, or even rodent damage. Faulty wiring can be hazardous and should be addressed by a professional electrician immediately.

4. Overloading

GFCIs are designed to handle a specific amount of current, and overloading can cause them to malfunction. If you have multiple appliances plugged into the same circuit, it may cause the GFCI to trip frequently. Consider spreading out your appliances to different circuits or installing additional GFCIs in high-use areas.

5. Lack of Testing

As mentioned earlier, GFCI testing is essential to ensure they are functioning correctly. If your GFCIs are not tested regularly, you may not know if they are working until an incident occurs.

What to Do If Your GFCI Stops Working

If you find that your GFCI is not working, the best course of action is to call a licensed electrician for assistance. B&K Electric in Warwick, RI, specializes in electrical repair, including GFCI maintenance and installation. Our highly trained and experienced electricians will inspect your GFCIs and wiring to identify and address any underlying issues.

However, there are a few things you can do to prevent your GFCI from failing in the first place:

1. Regularly Test Your GFCI

Press the test button on your GFCI at least once a month to ensure it is functioning correctly. If it fails to trip, it may be time to replace it.

2. Replace Old GFCIs

As GFCIs age, their ability to trip and cut off power decreases. It is crucial to have your GFCIs replaced every ten years or when they show signs of wear and tear.

3. Address Faulty Wiring or Connections

If you notice your GFCIs are frequently tripping, it could indicate faulty wiring or connections. Have a licensed electrician inspect and repair any faulty wiring to ensure the safety of your home.

4. Avoid Overloading

To prevent your GFCIs from tripping frequently, avoid overloading power outlets and circuits. Spread out your appliances to different circuits or install additional GFCIs in high-use areas.

5. Keep GFCI-protected Circuits Dry

GFCIs are designed to protect against electric shocks caused by ground faults. Keep the circuits they protect dry to prevent false trips and potential damage.

In Conclusion

GFCIs are simple yet effective devices designed to protect you and your loved ones from electric shocks and electrical fires caused by ground faults. Regular testing and proper maintenance are essential to ensure they are functioning correctly. If you encounter any issues with your GFCIs, call a licensed electrician like B&K Electric for assistance. Our expertise and dedication to safety make us the top choice for all your electrical needs in the Warwick and Providence area.

Topics:

GFCI,

Electrical Safety,

Ground Faults