GFCIs Can Ensure Electrical Safety in Homes
Independence Day festivities will be kicking off soon, and that means homeowners must ready their houses for guests. Sure, getting all the cookout ingredients and setting up outdoor activities are important, but most importantly, ensuring that the home is equipped for electrical safety.
Yes, this is probably not the first thing that many homeowners are thinking of, but this is extremely important. Just think – there may be dozens of guests, and with more people, there is a greater risk of accidents, especially if children are around.
Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are one of the most important electrical safety appliances in homes. GFCIs detect current imbalances and initiate breaks if imbalances are present. This mitigates the risk of electrical-related injury and fatalities. Homeowners should understand where to install GFCIs so they can keep festivities fun and safe!
Pump Motors in the Pool
The pool is a key area to watch out for when it comes to electrical safety. Water is highly conductive, so a big backyard pool is the prime setting for an accident. GFCIs are required when homeowners install a new pool, specifically in the pump motor. Regardless of the type of electrical connection to the pump motor, there needs to be a GFCI installed to prevent potentially lethal ground faults.
Most homeowners are probably not well versed in GFCIs, particularly in terms of how to install one properly, so they should hire professional electricians at the time of installation to ensure proper setup.
Lighting Inside and Around the Pool
In addition to the pump motor, homeowners also need to look out for the underwater lighting and the pool area's lighting. As was the case with the pump motor, there are specific regulations around pool lighting related to GFCIs. Notably, surrounding lighting can only reach up to a certain distance from the pool since closer proximity can run the risk of electrical accidents.
Additionally, underwater lights need to be equipped with GFCIs. Underwater lighting is almost in direct contact with the pool water, so there must be adequate safety measures to ensure that a ground fault does not lead to electrical shock, especially when people are apt to be swimming in the water!
Ceiling Fans and Other Types of Outdoor Appliances
Beyond just the pool, homeowners need to equip ceiling fans and other outdoor appliances with GFCIs. This is particularly the case if these appliances are located close to a water source.
People may be wondering why ceiling fans should be equipped with GFCIs, but it is easy to forget that the person who turns on the ceiling fan is at risk for an electrical shock if their feet are in contact with water when they do it. This could be disastrous if these fans were not equipped with GFCIs.
Any other outdoor appliances that may be close to the water sources should also be equipped with GFCIs, and if there is any doubt, homeowners should seek professional advice from electricians who know the best safety practices!
About Elite Electric & Air
Elite Electric & Air of Jupiter, FL is a family-owned and operated company that has been in business since 1988. Their team of experts provides top-notch workmanship, upfront pricing, 24/7 emergency services, and 100% satisfaction guaranteed for all of their customers. Give them a call for electrical services in Jupiter today!