A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)
is an inexpensive electrical device that, if installed in a household branch circuits, could prevent over two-thirds of the
approximately 300 electrocutions still occurring each year in and around the home.
Installation of the device could
also prevent thousands of burn and electric shock injuries each year. Currently most jurisdictions require GFCI protection
for every receptacle outlet and motor connection in every location where someone might be in a moist, wet or damp environment.
This means everywhere in a bathroom, all the countertop outlets in the kitchen, and within six feet of the sink in the wet
bar. It also means everywhere outside.
Receptacle-type GFCIs may be installed by knowledgeable consumers
familiar with electrical wiring practices who also follow the instructions accompanying the device. You can find good
step-by-step guide to installing a receptacle GFCI at www.diynetwork.com. When in doubt about the proper procedure, contact a qualified electrician. Do not attempt
to install it yourself.
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) provide protection against arcing in fixed wiring,
appliance cords and extension cords. The United States Consumer Protection Safety Commission (CPSC) and the National
Association of State Fire Marshals (NASFM) have called AFCI the “most promising fire protection technology since the
advent of the smoke detector”.
Conventional circuit beakers respond to overloads and short circuits.
They do not protect against arcing conditions that produce erratic current. Like circuit breakers, AFCIs protect against
short circuits and overloads, but also protect against arcs by electronically identifying the unique current and voltage characteristics
of arc fault and de-energizing the circuit when arc faults occur.
Peter Ottowitz, Hawkeye Home Inspection & Environmental Testing
Certified Master Inspector
Certified Environmental Home Inspector
Certified Residential Mold Inspector
Licensed
Construction Supervisor
CMC Certified Energy Auditor
Level One Thermographer
800-781-7130
http://www.hawkeyeinspectors.com
http://www.hawkeyeaudit.com
http://igetthehouse.com
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