Electrical Exam Term

GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter)

A device that monitors the current flowing through hot and neutral conductors and trips the circuit if it detects a difference of 5 milliamps or more, indicating current is leaking to ground.

Detailed Explanation

GFCIs protect against electrocution by detecting ground faults faster than standard breakers. NEC 210.8 requires GFCI protection in bathrooms, kitchens (within 6 feet of a sink), garages, outdoors, crawl spaces, unfinished basements, laundry areas, and other wet or damp locations. GFCIs can be installed as receptacles, circuit breakers, or portable devices. They must be tested monthly.

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Practice QuestionEasy

Which of the following best describes the concept of GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter)?

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