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Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) electric outlets are the outlets that typically have black and red test buttons on them. Safety outlets typically should be present near all sources of water and near metal-encased appliances that do not have electric motors (such as a cooktop, oven, coffee maker, toaster, etc.). GFCI-protected outlets are outlets which are “downstream” of GFCI outlets, meaning that they are on the same circuit as a GFCI outlet. If there is no electricity to a protected outlet, the GFCI outlet at a separate location might have tripped and disconnected electricity to the circuit.
Typical GFCI outlet. |
Typical areas where you might find GFCI or GFCI-protected outlets include the garage, laundry, kitchen, bathrooms, and exterior locations. GFCI-protected outlets should always be labeled as GFCI-protected outlets for the simple reason that if electricity is not present at the outlet, people will understand that they might need to check the GFCI outlet in another location before calling an electrician and possibly paying a service charge.
You should test the GFCI outlets as soon as you move in, noting at the same time any protected outlets that may be present and which GFCI outlets control those protected outlets. While protected outlets are supposed to be labeled as such, that typically is not the case since the label is usually paper and, being in high moisture areas (bathrooms, kitchens, etc.), they get wet and fall off. Of course, since the labels are not exactly designer labels, some people purposefully remove them. Although GFCI outlets are proven life-saving devices, they are known to fail on a regular basis and should be tested monthly to ensure that they are functioning properly. To test the GFCI outlet, first plug a nightlight or lamp into the outlet. Turn the light on and press the “TEST” button on the outlet. The “RESET” button should pop out, and the light should go out. If the GFCI outlet is functioning properly, meaning that the light goes out, press the “RESET” button to restore power to the outlet. |
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