The Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (or GFCIs for short) installed in your home could provide a service to you that could save your life. If you’re like most people, you may have seen or tested GFCIs a million times without realizing what they are. They’re devices built into nearly every electrical outlet within six feet of a water source, and they’re constantly monitoring the electrical flow within the outlet. If they detect even a tiny imbalance within that flow, they cut the power to the outlet. This interruption can prevent electrocution, among other things.
It’s important to test the GFCIs in your home regularly. To do that, it’s as simple as plugging something into the outlet like a lamp or a clock and then pushing the built-in “TEST” button on the outlet. If the lamp/clock/other turns off, you know the GFCI worked. If your GFCI is not doing its’ job, you should have it inspected, or even better, replaced.
