Electricity is something we rely on every day—but it also carries real risks, especially in areas where moisture is present. That’s why GFCI outlets, or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters, are so important.

They’re not just another type of outlet—they’re life-saving devices designed to protect you, your family, employees, and property from electrical shock and even electrocution.

🔎 What Is a GFCI Outlet?

GFCIs are special outlets that monitor the flow of electrical current. If they detect any irregularity—like electricity flowing through water or a person—they shut off power immediately. This can happen in as little as 1/40th of a second.

For example:
Imagine dropping a hair dryer into a sink full of water. Without GFCI protection, the result could be fatal. With a GFCI outlet, the power would be cut off before it could do serious harm.

⚠️ Why Are GFCIs So Important?

The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that GFCIs could prevent over 50% of electrocutions that occur in the home. The National Electrical Code (NEC) has required them in homes since the 1970s—and over the years, the list of required locations has expanded as we’ve learned more about electrical safety.

They’re critical because they:

• Detect hidden dangers that circuit breakers can’t

• Prevent severe shocks and burns

• Help reduce the risk of fires caused by ground faults

• Provide protection in the most vulnerable areas of your property

📍 Where Are GFCI Outlets Required?

If you’re a homeowner or business owner in Asheville, here’s where you should have GFCI protection, according to the 2023 NEC:

🏠 In Residential Homes:

• Bathrooms

• Kitchens (especially near countertops and sinks)

• Laundry rooms

• Garages

• Basements and crawlspaces (unfinished or damp)

• Exterior outlets (including porches, decks, and patios)

• Utility rooms and wet bars

🏢 In Commercial and Business Properties:

• Restrooms

• Break rooms or staff kitchens

• Outdoor signs, lighting, or receptacles

• Maintenance closets or janitor areas with a sink

• Any wet or damp locations

• Commercial kitchens or food prep areas

If your property is missing GFCIs in any of these areas, it may be out of code—and unsafe.

🛠️ Already Have GFCIs? Here’s How to Test Them

GFCI outlets can go bad over time, especially if exposed to moisture and heavy use. That’s why it’s a good idea to test them once a month.

✅ Here’s how:

1. Press the “TEST” button – You should hear a click, and power to the outlet should shut off.

2. Plug in a small appliance or device (like a lamp or phone charger) – It should not turn on.

3. Press the “RESET” button – Power should be restored.

If any of this doesn’t happen as expected, the outlet needs to be replaced immediately.

🔧 Need GFCIs Installed or Replaced? Call Kilowatt Electric LLC

Whether you’re updating an older home, building a new space, or ensuring your business stays up to code, Kilowatt Electric LLC is here to help.

We provide:

• Thorough electrical safety inspections

• New GFCI installations in all required areas

• Replacement of faulty or outdated GFCIs

• Code-compliant solutions for homes and businesses

• Friendly, knowledgeable service from a licensed Asheville electrician

📞 Contact Kilowatt Electric LLC Today

Let us help you protect what matters most. If you’re not sure whether your home or business is up to code, or you’ve spotted missing or malfunctioning GFCIs, don’t take a chance.

➡️ Call Kilowatt Electric LLC at (828)585-2500
➡️ Visit us at www.kilowattelectric.pro to schedule service or request an estimate

Proudly serving Asheville, NC and surrounding communities
🔌 Licensed • Insured • Dependable • Local