We are continuing our series of articles covering electrical tips for new homeowners. Remember, even though we are providing these tips, we still recommend contacting a licensed electrician to conduct an electrical safety inspection of your new home.
Our previous articles discussed the importance of knowing where all of your electrical outlets are located and making sure they are in working order. We also covered how you can get to know your electrical control panel/breaker box. Today, we will discuss GFCI outlets.
Take time to identify all of the GFCI outlets in your home. They will be located in areas where water or moisture is present, including the kitchen, bathrooms, garages, and outdoors. Once you identify where your GFCI outlets are located, make a list and set aside time each month to test them.
Testing is quite simple. You can either purchase a GFCI sensor or you can follow a few simple steps:
- Plug a portable light or lamp into the GFCI outlet and turn it on.
- Push the GFCI “test” button. This will cause the RESET button to pop out. The electrical flow to the outlet is now stopped.
- Now, assess the lamp.
- If the lamp is turned off when the TEST button is pushed, the GFCI outlet properly works.
- If the lamp remained on when the TEST button is pushed, then the GFCI outlet is faulty and needs to be replaced.
- If the GFCI outlet is working when the TEST button is pushed, the power should be restored by pressing the RESET button. If power is not restored, then the GFCI outlet is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Our next article will cover GFCI breakers.
When you are in need of a commercial electrician or residential electrician, Top Flight Electric is the trusted provider to call. We provide professional electrical services throughout Polk County, including Lake Alfred, Lakeland, Haines City, Lakeland Heights, Eagle Lake, Winter Haven, Davenport, and Mountain Lake. A licensed electrician can be dispatched to your home or business to provide troubleshooting and support. We can also help you stay safe by performing an electrical safety inspection. If you are considering a whole-home generator, we are also one of the area’s certified Generac dealers. Give us a call to learn more today!
