At FloHawks, your family’s safety is our top priority. While we’re known across the Puget Sound for our plumbing and septic services, we also provide electrical expertise and electrical safety. Today we will discuss Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets and how they prevent electrical hazards.
What is a GFCI Outlet?
These special outlets are designed to prevent electrical shock by instantly shutting off when they detect a ground fault. For instance, when electricity is flowing through an unintended path like water or a person, it will automatically turn off. GFCI outlets are installed in areas where water is in close proximity, such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and outdoor spaces. In today’s time, these outlets are required by modern building codes and save many lives. Below, we’ve listed a few reasons why GFCI outlets are important.
Prevent Electrical Shock
GFCI outlets significantly reduce the risk of shock in wet and damp environments. Without proper protection, bathrooms and kitchens could be very dangerous. These outlets also protect your expensive appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators.
Fire Prevention
A house fire can be started by faulty wiring and electrical shorts. In this scenario, GFCIs cut off the power before sparks can ignite and prevent a major disaster from happening. Many insurance companies and home inspectors require GFCI outlets to be required in certain areas – which may cause a delay in closing to higher insurance premiums. Electrical safety is a big emphasis in the housing industry.
Peace of Mind
It’s more than code compliance, GFCI outlets also give you a true peace of mind – knowing your home is protected against dangers allows you to do your everyday activities with confidence. As a parent, you will be at ease due to the fact that your kids are protected against the dangers in areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and everywhere else. You can trust that your GFCI outlets are constantly working in the background to keep your family safe.
Trust Your Local Experts
Whether you’re renovating, selling or want a safer home, our team at FloHawks is here to help. A trusted local electrician can quickly assess whether your outlets are up to current safety standards and recommend the right upgrades. Don’t wait for an accident to happen; call us today to schedule a professional GFCI outlet installation and protect your home.
