The home inspector added several outlets to the ‘punch’ list when you where buying your house and it says something about a GFCI. What is it and why does it need to be on your report?

- GFCI – Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter

This is a typical problem as building codes change for different regions of the US. I see this on almost every older house sale that I help punch out…The problem usually stems from not adding every bathroom or kitchen outlet to the existing GFCI or not having them added at all. The current law requires that every outlet within 3ft of a water source (sink) and every outlet located outdoors be GFCI protected (this is the last time I looked).

What exactly does a GFCI do? A GFCI is a little genius invention that detects the presence of water and trips the circuit. It works by comparing the current out with the current in and trips when the differ. When water is added to the circuit the current is allowed to stray a little which causes the electricity to be suddenly interrupted. If you are holding a blow dryer and somehow come in contact with water you may get a little shock, but the GFCI is designed to stop the electricity quickly so that you are not electrocuted.

- Tip – Check your GFCIs periodically to ensure they are working properly. This includes all outlets attached to the GFCI load end (protected). Push the test button and make sure there is no electricity coming from them with a non-contact voltage tester.

Thank You For Reading
Luke Spencer

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