

Note: If your GFCI outlets were installed before 2006, the RESET button may not provide you with accurate information. If the blender runs, high-five someone and take a load off. Notice that between the two plugs on the GFCI outlet, you’ll find two tiny, rectangular buttons-one reads “TEST” and the other “RESET.” Press the RESET button, plug your blender back in, and try turning it on.

If you haven’t already, unplug your blender. Ground faults are more likely to occur near water sources-kitchen sinks, bathroom tubs, decks, water heaters, and washing machines for example-and so building codes now require GFCI outlets in all of these locations. A GFCI outlet senses that power surge and interrupts the ground fault by immediately cutting power to the outlet and to whatever’s plugged into it, effectively preventing you from becoming the next conductor. When a ground fault occurs, there’s a surge in power as the electricity “jumps” from its normal, intended path (insulated wiring) to the next conductor. In that case, the rogue electrical current will find another conductor and head toward the ground. But if it has a chance to escape-through faulty wiring, for example-it will. As long as the electricity stays contained in those insulated wires, all is well. GFCI stands for ground fault circuit interrupter, and these specialized outlets have a critical job: Preventing you from getting electrocuted.Įlectricity flows through your home in wires coated in a non-conductive material. What’s a tired and thirsty homeowner to do? 1. You plug your blender into the GFCI outlet by the kitchen sink, inform your dog about the impending racket, hit “go,” aaaaand nothing. But as a Culpeper electrician, we can absolutely help with your uncooperative appliance.įor the sake of illustration, let’s say you’re looking forward to whipping up a well-deserved marga… cold, refreshing beverage.

When we try to turn on our hair dryer, shop vac, or blender and nothing happens.Īdmittedly, we can’t do anything in regard to your painting dilemma (other than deeply sympathize with the pain that comes with an accurate told-ya-so).When our paint roller slips and our partner “sweetly” reminds us we should’ve taped over the outlets like they told us to.In fact, they generally come to mind under only two circumstances: 24/7 Emergency Services (540) 845-3653 Request Job EstimateĪs with most of our modern conveniences, we rarely think about our electrical outlets.
