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GFCI outlets are essential parts of your electrical system’s safety equipment. Minimizing the risk of ground fault and shock in areas throughout your home, GFCI/GFI outlets in Los Angeles homes can provide comprehensive protection. Learn the basics of GFCI outlets, common GFCI outlet troubleshooting strategies, and when to call the pros at Express Electrical for GFCI replacement and repair in Los Angeles.
GFCI Outlets 101: What You
Need to Know
Need to Know
Electrical systems have numerous circuits in which currents flow in a controlled manner through insulated wires and outlets. Some circumstances, such as damaged wiring, can cause electricity to stay from its intended path along the circuit. Electricity will always seek the fastest path to the ground through the closest or most effective conductor. Since water is a strong conductor, areas in your home with close proximity to water or high moisture levels have a greater risk of ground fault, which can pose serious and sometimes lethal consequences.
Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets are safety devices meant to protect people from electrical injury from ground faults. While standard outlets don’t prevent electrical shocks from ground faults, GFCI outlets can shut down electricity within milliseconds. These devices feature an internal mechanism that monitors the electrical current for abnormalities — if it detects even minor imbalances, a GFCI outlet interrupts the flow to prevent it from traveling to water or a person.
GFCI outlets, also known as GFI outlets, have similar appearances as standard outlets but include test and reset buttons. The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires receptacle GFCI outlets in areas exposed to water or moisture, including:
- Outdoors
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Garages
- Basements and crawl spaces
- Wet bar sinks
- Laundry areas
Common GFCI Outlet Problems
and Solutions
and Solutions
Proper GFCI outlet function is important for maintaining your household’s safety. See these GFCI problems and troubleshooting tips below.
Faulty wiring
Frayed, overloaded, improperly installed, or otherwise damaged wiring can result in GFCI malfunction. If the GFCI outlet trips but doesn’t allow you to reset it and restore the connection, faulty GFCI outlet wiring is a likely culprit. An electrician can inspect and repair the wiring to ensure it meets electrical code requirements.
Frequent tripping
Various underlying factors can cause a GFCI outlet to trip overly frequently. These include:
- Overloading circuits with high power demand.
- Moisture in receptacle box.
- Damaged wiring connections.
Check that you don’t have too many devices and appliances on a single circuit. If you’re unable to move devices away from the outlet or adjusting the load doesn’t resolve tripping problems, have a professional assess your setup.
Moisture in receptacle
Moisture can accumulate in GFCI receptacles, especially those outside and exposed to rain and California’s coastal humidity. If water accumulates faster than it can evaporate, the GFCI outlet may detect moisture and trip to avoid an electrical accident.
Turn the connected breaker off at the electrical panel, dry out the receptacle, and attempt to reset the GFCI. Ensure the GFCI receptacle has adequate weatherproofing to avoid moisture buildup. If the device continues to accumulate moisture and trip, contact an electrician.
Outlet malfunction
Improper installation can cause a GFCI to not work as it should. Although they’re designed to last up to 15 years, GFCIs can also malfunction due to long-term wear. Electrical surges can damage the components in the internal mechanism that detects currents, rendering them ineffective. Outdoor outlets exposed to rain, heat, UV light, and other harsh elements may also see a reduced lifespan.
Use the GFCI outlet’s test and reset buttons to verify its proper function. Consult with an electrician if your GFCI outlet shows signs of damage or doesn’t work properly.
Our GFCI Outlet Installation and Repair Services in Los Angeles
Whether you need a new GFCI installation or have an outlet due for repair or replacement, trust in our team of licensed electricians at Express Electrical. Serving Los Angeles, Orange County, and other areas in California, we offer numerous advantages to our customers.
- Rapid response: Some electrical problems require urgent attention, which is why we have electricians stationed throughout our service area, fully-stocked trucks, and a live operator 24/7 to respond to your calls.
- Expert technicians: Fully licensed, bonded, and insured our electrical team possesses the necessary skills, knowledge, and training to deliver high-quality workmanship and confidence in your system.
- Customer satisfaction: With thousands of 5-star reviews from customers, we stand behind our GFCI repair and installation and guarantee your satisfaction in your services.
Contact Express Electrical for GFCI Outlet Services in Los Angeles
Don’t hesitate when it comes to the safety of your home’s electrical system. Whether your GFCI outlet isn’t working, needs replacement, or routine inspection, our team is ready to get your home compliant with electrical permit and code requirements. Contact us today or book online to schedule a service.
Frequently Asked Questions
In some cases, upgrading to GFCI outlets may qualify for rebates or incentives from government organizations or other programs. For example, the electrical panel upgrade tax credit may cover GFCI panel upgrades.
The LADWP recommends that single family dwellings adhere to the guidelines of the NEC and install GFCI protection for all 125-volt, single-phase, 15, and 20 ampere receptacles in areas of your home near water.
It’s generally safe to use an extension cord with a GFCI outlet. Ensure the cord is in good condition and rated for the intended use to avoid overloading the circuit and tripping the GFCI outlet.
GFCI/GFI outlets can protect multiple outlets downstream on the same circuit. In this configuration, the GFCI outlet is first on the circuit and closest to the circuit breaker. This strategy can save costs on installing multiple GFCI units, simplify installation and maintenance, and provide comprehensive protection.
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