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What is GFCI protection and how is it maintained?

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) devices are required in specific areas of our homes by law. What is GFCI protection? We must all have GFCI protection in certain parts of our house such as our kitchens, bathrooms, unfinished basements, outside our homes as well as our garages. GFCI devices monitor the electricity between the ungrounded (hot) and grounded (neutral) conductors. If there is an improper imbalance between the two conductors the GFCI will stop the power from exiting the receptacle, so no one gets an electrical shock.

GFCI protection comes in two different forms. The most noticeable would be in the form of a receptacle. The second form of GFCI protection that is common in homes is GFCI breakers. Both of these devices protect people from an electrical shock. The receptacle is located in the outlet where we plug devices in. The breaker is located in the electrical panel.

GFCI devices need to be adequately maintained. It is suggested to test the GFCI device on a monthly basis by manufactures. The way you check the device is as follows:

On the receptacle, there is a test button, press the button. After you pressed the button to try to plug something into the receptacle, the item you plugged in should not work. Now, press the reset button and plug the same thing in. You should have restored the power.

On the breaker, press the test button located on the breaker. The breaker should now be turned off. To restore power to the breaker make sure the breaker is in the off position and push to the on position, this will restore power to the circuit.

Please make sure the GFCI protection in all the areas of your home are tested on a monthly basis to ensure the devices are working correctly to protect you and your family.

Contact John's Electric to make sure you have the proper outlets in your home. 

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About John's Electric

Linn Park Fountain, Birmingham, AL

John's Electric Inc. is a family owned and operated electrical contractor business that proudly provides electrician services in Birmingham, AL and the surrounding areas such as Hoover, Homewood, Chelsea, Vestavia Hills, Pelham, Alabaster, Trussville, and Mountain Brook. John's Electric provides residential and commercial electrical solutions at competitive rates. We have been in this line of work for 30 years, giving us not only experience but expertise as well. You can depend on us. We are a state licensed electrician (#03875) for your protection.

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What others say about John's Electric Service

Great job installing new breaker/meter box. Fast service , great price, will use again if needed.

stuart222

Yellow Pages

Aubrey upgraded our electrical fuse panel, put in an updated outside service panel, replaced the main service line from the outside panel to the inside fuse box, and installed several outlets. His original estimate was complete and accurate. He brought our electrical system up to code and made several recommendations for changes and upgrades that we had not thought of. He worked with our schedule, was on time and very professional, and left our home as clean as when he arrived. He was extremely conscientious and reliable. We very highly recommend John's Electric and will definitely use them again.

Debbie S. Dumas

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Great company! He called and came out right away. They were on time, did a good job and gave me a good price! Very happy!

Deana C.

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They always are so polite and come whenever I need them to - working around my schedule. A family business that cares about the little man! Great prices and excellent service! Have used them several times and will continue too!

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