A ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is a safety device that provides protection from electrical faults that could cause dangerous electrical shocks. It is designed to protect people from the dangers of leakage of electrical current that is seeking the easiest path to the ground. A GFCI continually compares the amount of current flowing through the black and white wires of a fixture or appliance circuit and disconnects the power to a receptacle if it senses a change indicating current leakage. There are three basic types: plug-in and wired into a conventional box (which you can install), and a main panel, whole-circuit model that should be installed by a professional. GFCIs are now required by The National Electrical Code (NEC) wherever receptacles are installed in kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms, garages, crawl spaces, other wet or damp locations, and exterior installations. (Fig. 2)
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