How to Connect a GFI Breaker to a GFI Receptacle
A ground fault interrupt (GFI) circuit breaker is an electrical instrument used to detect ground faults, also known as "shorts" and sever electrical energy on that circuit if one is found. GFI breakers are recommended by the National Electric Code for installations in moist or wet environments. These breakers are also recommended for circuits to kitchens and bathrooms. The installation of a GFI breaker can be accomplished as long as safety is kept in mind at all times. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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1
Put on your electrical gloves.
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2
Open the breaker box that houses the GFI receptacle into which you wish to install the breaker.
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3
Locate the main breaker. This breaker is usually in the top most position within the breaker box.
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4
Set this breaker to the "OFF" or "OPEN" position. All electrical power to the home should be disconnected.
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5
Locate the open receptacle into which you wish to install the GFI breaker.
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6
Insert the GFI breaker into the receptacle. This breaker is keyed and can only plug into the receptacle in the proper orientation.
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7
Locate the white wire coming from the GFI breaker. This wire is called the pigtail wire and is bent in a spiral shape.
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8
Locate the busbar along the outside edge of your breaker box. This bar will be a thin strip of metal with several mounting screws holding other pigtail wires to it.
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Loosen a mounting screw on the busbar and wrap the exposed metal end of the pigtail wire around the screw post.
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Tighten the screw back down so that it holds the exposed portion of the pigtail wire firmly in place.
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Locate the black wire for the circuit you wish to connect to the GFI breaker.
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12
Locate the load screw on the GFI breaker. This will be at one end of the GFI breaker and will be labeled with the word "Load"
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Loosen the load screw and wrap the exposed end of the black wire around this post.
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Tighten the load screw until the black wire's exposed portion is firmly held down in place against the GFI breaker.
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15
Set the GFI breaker to the "ON" or "Closed" position.
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Set the main breaker to the "ON" or "Closed" position. This will reestablish the electrical power throughout your home.
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Close the breaker box.
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Tips & Warnings
If at any time you feel uncertain about the actions to take during this procedure or are unsure of your safety, stop the process and call a professional electrician.
