306 | Section 8 Electrical System ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- Monarch SE 2004
A ground fault circuit interrupter “GFCI” can be found in two different types of
applications. One type is incorporated in a breaker used in 120 Volt AC breaker
panels, the other is incorporated in an outlet. The GFCI, whether it is a breaker or
an outlet, offer two types of protection. One type of protection is from
over-current or shorts. It also provides protection for persons against hazardous
ground fault currents which can result in injury or death. Ground fault currents are
currents that flow from the “HOT” or power terminal through a person to the
ground. For example, touching a faulty appliance while standing on or making
contact with an electrical ground such as a water fixture, bath tub or the earth. If
the device has been properly installed it will offer protection against the type of
shock that can result from faulty insulation, wet wiring from inside an appliance,
or any device or equipment plugged in or wired to that circuit. The “ground fault”
portion of the outlet or breaker uses sensitive electronics inside the outlet or
breaker to detect a ground fault problem. The electronics monitor the normal
current of power, flowing to the “hot” or black wire through the load (eg. a light
bulb or appliance) and coming back on the “neutral” or white wire. If just a small
amount of the current comes back on the safety ground wire the electronics will
“trip” the breaker or outlet, stopping the flow of electricity. The amount of current
it takes to trip the device from a ground fault varies slightly from the different
outlet or breaker manufacturers (approximately 30 mils or less). Electrical shocks
resulting from ground faults can be felt, but such a shock is considerably less than
one without ground fault protection. People with heart conditions, or other
conditions that make them susceptible to shock, can still be seriously injured. A
GFCI outlet or breaker will not protect against shock from a normal current flow.
For example, a shock from touching both metal prongs of an electrical cord or
appliance while plugging it in.
WARNING: If a breaker or outlet trips continually DO NOT continue
to reset breaker or outlet until the problem has been identified and
corrected.
NOTE: The ground fault outlet or breaker should be tested once a
month to insure it is working properly. Use the “TEST” button on the
outlet or breaker. It should trip with an audible “click.” The breaker or
outlet will not trip if no AC power is not present at the device. If power
is present and the device will not “trip,” replace it before using that
circuit.
NOTE: One mil is 1/1000 of one amp.
GFCI Breakers &
Outlets
GFCI Outlet.
060072
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