Installing a GFCI Receptacle

Installing a GFCI Receptacle

   A single GFCI receptacle can protect many receptacles in a circuit. Here's how to install one:
   On the back of a GFCI you'll see that one set of leads or screw terminals is marked line, the other load. Connect wires that bring current to the line leads or terminals. Connect wires that run out from the receptacle to the load leads or terminals. Connect the ground wire to the green lead or terminal.
   A GFCI breaker protects a whole circuit, but costs several times more than a GFCI receptacle, which sells for as little as $8.
    The Pros Say: GFCIs work even without a ground, so you can install them in ungrounded outlets.
   To determine which set of wires is carrying power to the box, shut down the circuit, disconnect the existing receptacle and separate all wires from each other and from contact with the box. Turn the circuit back on and check each pair of wires with a voltage tester. The set that lights the tester should be connected to the LINE leads or terminals. Turn off the power again before making the connections.

Safety

Test a GFCI every so often to ensure that it is working properly. Pushing the TEST button should cause the RESET button to pop out. Pushing the RESET button re-energizes the receptacle. If the RESET button does not pop out or if it fails to reset, do not use the receptacle or any others on its circuit.

Safety-related resources on the Web:
Index of Occupational Safety and Health Resources (http://turva.me.tut.fi/~oshweb/)
National Safety Council (http://www.national-safety-council.ie/)
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/homepage.html)
Other safety Web sites