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How to Tell If a GFCI Is Faulty?

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By eHow Contributing Writer
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Ground fault circuit interrupt receptacles, or GFCI, constantly monitor the electrical current flowing away from and back to the outlet. If this flow changes, the GFCI terminates the flow of electricity. This dropped flow is due to an "electrical short" or ground fault. You can test a GFCI at any time; however, they should be tested at least once a month to guarantee correct operation.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Plug an appliance into the GFCI, and turn the appliance on.

  2. Step 2

    Locate and press the "Test" button on the GFCI. This should terminate the electrical flow to the appliance instantly. If it does not, your GFCI is incorrectly wired or faulty.

  3. Step 3

    Locate and press the "Reset" button next to the "Test" button. This will re-engage the electrical circuit and allow for standard usage.

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