What safety function do GFCI outlets provide?

GFCI outlets, or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters, have a vital safety function that specifically addresses ground faults. A ground fault occurs when there is an unintended path between the source of current and a grounded surface. This situation can happen if a person comes into contact with water, for example, while using a plugged-in electrical device.

The primary purpose of a GFCI outlet is to quickly detect these imbalances in electrical current. If it senses that the current flowing through the hot wire does not match the current returning through the neutral wire—indicating a ground fault—it will interrupt the circuit almost instantaneously, usually within a fraction of a second. This rapid disconnection greatly reduces the risk of electrical shock or electrocution, making GFCI outlets essential in wet or potentially hazardous locations like kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe the function of GFCI outlets. Regulating voltage levels and protecting against overloads are functions related to other types of devices, such as voltage regulators and circuit breakers, respectively. Boosting signal strength pertains to communication devices or amplifiers, which is unrelated to the safety function offered by GFCI outlets. Therefore, the role of GFCI outlets