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GFCI outlet

An outlet with Test and Reset buttons that shuts off power in a fraction of a second when current leaks where it shouldn't, to protect people from shock.

What It Means

GFCI stands for ground fault circuit interrupter. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) describes it as a device that helps protect people from electrical shock and electrocution. ESFI explains how: it keeps comparing the current flowing out on a circuit with the current coming back, and if the two differ even a little, it cuts the power almost instantly. A GFCI outlet is easy to spot, because its Test and Reset buttons sit in the middle of the outlet's face.

Try It: Run the Monthly GFCI Test

CPSC's monthly test, one step at a time.

Step 1 of 4. Plug a lamp or nightlight into the GFCI outlet and switch it on.

How It Sounds at Home

  • "The bathroom outlet popped again, hit the reset."
  • "Push the little button on the kitchen outlet."
  • "Nothing works on the patio, check the GFI."

The Breakdown

The monthly test, per CPSC and ESFI

  1. Plug a lamp or nightlight into the GFCI outlet and turn it on.
  2. Press the Test button. The light should switch off.
  3. Press Reset. The light should come back on.
  4. Buhata's own advice: if the light stays on after Test, or Reset won't restore power, treat the outlet as unprotected, stop using it and call a licensed electrician.

Short version to try today. Press Test and then Reset on each GFCI in the kitchen and bathrooms, and write the date down.

Where the electrical code calls for them. NFPA notes that the 2020 National Electrical Code, section 210.8(A), requires GFCI protection in homes in places including these. It's part of the list, and your local code and the age of your home decide what's actually installed.

AreaWhy it matters
Bathrooms and kitchensWater and outlets close together
Sink areas, bathtub and shower areasWet hands and wet floors
Laundry areasWashers and utility sinks
Garages, basements, crawlspacesDamp floors and power tools
OutdoorsRain, hoses and lawn equipment

Good to Know

CPSC recommends testing every GFCI at least once a month, whether it's an outlet or a GFCI breaker in the panel. NFPA says GFCIs should be installed by a qualified electrician, so replacing or adding one is a job for a licensed electrician, never a weekend wiring project. Buhata's own advice: if an outlet trips again as soon as you reset it, leave it off and have it checked. If you smell burning or see sparks, stop using it; if there's smoke or fire, get everyone out and call 911 from outside.

FAQ

How often should I test a GFCI outlet?

At least once a month, CPSC says, using the Test button. Press Reset afterward to bring the power back.

What does a GFCI outlet protect against?

Electrical shock. CPSC describes it as protection against shock and electrocution. NFPA notes the electrical code calls for GFCIs in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry areas, outdoors and other places where water and power meet.

My GFCI outlet won't reset. What now?

Leave it alone and call a licensed electrician. A GFCI that won't reset, or won't cut the power when tested, isn't doing its job.

Do It in Buhata

Maintenance

Add "Test the GFCI outlets" to Maintenance in the Household X add-on with a monthly schedule, so it rolls forward each time you tick it.

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Related Terms and Categories

  • AFCI breaker

    A circuit breaker that senses dangerous electrical arcing from damaged or worn wiring and shuts the power off before a fire can start.

  • Tripped breaker

    A circuit breaker that has switched itself off to cut power to one circuit, most often because too much was running on it at once.

  • Licensed contractor

    A contractor who holds the license your state or local government requires for the kind of work being done, which you can check before you hire.

  • Smoke detector testing

    Pressing a smoke alarm's test button once a month to make sure it sounds, and replacing the alarm 10 years after the date it was made.

Home maintenance and repairs

Sources

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, "CPSC Fact Sheet: What Is a GFCI?"; Electrical Safety Foundation International, "Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI)"; Electrical Safety Foundation International, "How to Use GFCIs"; NFPA, "5 Ways to Check Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupters to Help Ensure Continued Safety in Homes"; NFPA, "Electrical Home Fire Safety: Electrical Circuit Interrupters"

Last updated .