One of the reasons you should upgrade your electrical system is to avoid the risk associated with outdated outlets. GFCI outlets are the ideal solution. These cutting-edge models keep you, your appliances, and the rest of the grid safe from dangerous charges.
Here we’ll explain why installing these outlets makes sense.
What Is a GFCI Outlet?
Before we get to the nitty-gritty, let’s cover the basics of GFCI outlets. The name stands for ground fault circuit interrupters. They monitor the power that runs through your system and cuts it off if it flows where it shouldn’t.
Why Should You Upgrade to GFCI Outlets?
One of the smartest investments you can make is to revamp your grid with GFCI outlets. Here’s what they bring to the table.
Lower Risk of Injuries
As previously mentioned, GFCI outlets keep electricity from going where it shouldn’t. Without them, power would pretty much flow freely through your system, especially if you have outdated outlets or faulty wiring. Touching these outlets puts you at risk of burns and other severe injuries.
By cutting off power, GFCI outlets keep this from happening.
Protecting Your Appliances
You’re not the only one who can suffer at the hands of shocks. The fridge, oven, dishwasher, and other appliances are exposed, too, if your outlets have gone bad.
You can turn the tables with GFCI outlets. By stopping dangerous electricity flows from reaching your devices, they reduce the likelihood of extensive damage.
Keeping Your Home in Line with Modern Standards
If your house was built four or five decades ago, most of its power network is outdated. You may need to revamp much of the system to improve safety and ensure your house follows local guidelines. Namely, you might be subject to fines in some areas if you don’t have GFCI outlets, so don’t postpone the upgrade.
Key Takeaways:
- GFCI outlets have buttons on them that say test and reset. It is designed to cut off power in an emergency.
- An electrical panel protects the electrical system, but a GFCI protects people. It monitors the voltage through the outlet to ensure safety.
- Any modern home should be equipped with GFCI outlets, especially in the kitchen, bathrooms, and bedrooms.
“If you already have a breaker panel and grounded outlets, there may be another important electrical retrofit for you to schedule replacing a number of key outlets with GFCI outlets.”
Read more:
https://www.schererelectric.com/blog/electrical/upgrade-gfci-outlets-in-home/
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