What is a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) or residual current device (RCD)?
Q: What is a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) or residual current device (RCD)?
A: It is a type of circuit breaker that shuts off electric power to protect people from an electric shock caused by an electrical fault such as a short circuit, insulation failure, or malfunctioning equipment.
Q: How does a GFCI/RCD differ from a standard circuit breaker?
A: A GFCI/RCD breaks the circuit when it detects an imbalance of only 0.005 amps (0.030 amps in some countries), while a standard circuit breaker protects machinery and shuts off power when the current is too high, such as 10, 15, or 20 amps.
Q: What is the purpose of a GFCI/RCD?
A: It protects people from shock and electrocution, particularly in locations where electrical devices may be used near sources of water, such as bathrooms or kitchens.
Q: How does a GFCI/RCD protect people from dangers associated with using electrical devices near water sources?
A: A GFCI/RCD can detect when there is an alternate path for current to travel, such as through someone's bare skin in contact with water or a wet floor, and breaks the circuit to prevent electric shock.
Q: Can a GFCI/RCD prevent dangers from electrical faults that don't involve humans?
A: Yes, it can prevent dangers from short circuits and other electrical faults, such as a low current short where the current never reaches the trigger point for a circuit breaker.
Q: What is the threshold at which a GFCI/RCD detects an imbalance of current in Australia and some European and Asian countries?
A: The threshold is 0.030 amps in these countries.
Q: What kind of electrical equipment is a standard circuit breaker designed to protect?
A: A standard circuit breaker protects house electrical wires, receptacles and switches, and appliances and fixtures from dangerous conditions, which could contribute to overheating and possible fire.
