Water is a very good conductor of electricity so if you come in contact with water that is also in contact with an electrical short – bad news! You’re now part of the circuit. Ground fault circuit interrupters, or GFCI’s, are supplemental protection that prevents electric shock in places like kitchens, bathrooms, exteriors, garages and hot tubs where electricity, water and people are likely to cross paths.
Current variations of as little as 4 or 5 thousandths of an amp can indicate a short or power leak. Circuit breakers or fuses don’t usually provide protection at these minute levels, but as little as 16 thousandths of an amp can cause cardiac arrest in the average human. Breakers are intended to stop overloads or short circuits, protecting systems; GFCI’s are designed to protect people.
If you’d like advice about areas of your property that might benefit from GFCI protection, give us a call. We’re here to help.
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more tips & highlights. Would you like Squires Electric to brighten your day? Send us an email! wired@squireselectric.com
