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Throw a Fun and Safe 4th of July With GFCI Outlets

Posted on July 13, 2021 by

Here’s How GFCIs Protect the Home, So Homeowners Don’t Have To Worry

When it comes to protecting the home from electrical problems, there is one safety tip that every homeowner needs to know. Installing GFCI outlets in specific areas of the home can protect it from several different emergencies, including a house or appliance fire. The 4th of July is the perfect time to have GFCI outlets installed into the home. It is the time of year when homeowners tend to have more guests in their homes, with more appliances plugged in. GFCIs can and should also be installed outdoors. Doing so ensures that the outdoor appliances are safe from electrical shortages or fire. 

When an electrical fixture or appliance is outside for the entirety of its life, it can cause problems to occur if that system isn’t protected to weather the changing climates. GFCIs are a beautiful thing. Continue reading to learn more about them. 

GFCIs and Pool Pump Motors

According to the National Electrical Code (NEC), all residential pool pumps must be installed with a GFCI outlet. Technically, a pool builder isn’t supposed to install the pump until an electrician installed the outlet. 

Some find this as an annoyance because GFCI breakers tend to trip more often than a traditional breaker. However, when a GFCI trips, it is doing its job. It is designed to trip off the power at a very low voltage to ensure that no one gets hurt. 

Here are some reasons that GFCI breakers trip when installed for a pool pump motor:

  • Rain 
  • Runoff from rain
  • Sprinklers

Noise from transformers can even cause them to trip. There are some GFCI’s that are more highly recommended for pool pump motors, though. One specific GFCI that comes highly recommended is the Siemens GFCI breaker. 

Pool Lightingpool

Whether the lights are located in the pool or around it, another outdoor appliance requires a GFCI breaker and outlets. In an area that is so used to being covered in water, it only makes sense to have GFCIs installed. Electrical safety is the number one reason the NEC recommends GFCIs for pools.

Unfortunately, people die from electrocution in the pool every year. When homeowners have a GFCI breaker installed, the breaker will trip when the electrical appliance hits the water. If the GFCI doesn’t trip for whatever reason, the homeowner must unplug the power cord first. This will ensure that the electrical current stops and they can safely retrieve the appliance from the water. 

The same can be said for the pool lights as well. Normally, this won’t happen if one installed the electrical wiring correctly. However, it is still possible to get electrocuted through the water via the pool lights. That is why it is always best to hire a trusted electrician to get the job done, rather than looking for someone strictly because they offer cheap services. When it comes to pool safety, it is worth the money. 

Outdoor Appliancesfan

According to the NEC, any 15-amp, 20-amp, or 120-volt must have a GFCI outlet. When dealing with outdoor electrical appliances, this is simply the safest option. All of the best electricians will recommend to homeowners that all outdoor appliances be installed with GFCI breakers and outlets. Even if the NEC doesn’t require it, it is better to be safe than sorry. 

Regardless of the outdoor appliance, the bottom line is time to ensure that the home is ready for the 4th of July with GFCI breakers and outlets for all outdoor appliances. 

All Services Knows All the Secrets

Those looking for a professional electrician in Crown Point, IN, look no further. The professionals at All Services are there to answer any questions because they know how important efficient electricity is to the home. Don’t wait until emergency strikes. Call and schedule electrical service today!

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