Electrical Safety 101: Ground Fault vs. Arc Fault

Electrical safety should be at the top of every homeowner’s priority list. Ignoring electrical issues could lead to severe damage or even fatal accidents. Homeowners should know about two common electrical problems: ground and arc faults. Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) and arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) are essential tools that protect you and your family from electrical mishaps.

Let’s define ground and arc faults and explain how they can occur. We will also discuss how GFCIs and AFCIs can detect and prevent electrical accidents.

Ground Faults

Ground faults are one of the most common hazards in electrical systems. They occur when an electrical current deviates from its intended path and flows to the ground. This can happen when a live wire touches a grounded surface or an uninsulated wire contacts a conductive material. Ground faults can cause severe electrocution or fires. For example, a ground fault in a hair dryer or toaster can lead to a dangerous shock or a house fire.

Fortunately, GFCIs are designed to protect against ground faults. GFCIs monitor the flow of electrical current in a circuit and quickly shut off the power if they detect any deviation from the expected flow. They are easy to install and can be used in outlets with electrical equipment or near water sources like sinks, pools, or outdoor surroundings.

Arc Faults

Arc faults occur when electricity jumps an unintended gap in a circuit and produces a spark or arc that can ignite flammable material. This phenomenon can occur when wires have been damaged, there are loose connections in a circuit, or there is outdated wiring in walls, outlets, or switches. Arc faults can trigger house fires, leading to significant damage or even fatalities.

AFCIs are the best defense against arc faults, using advances that monitor the electrical current and detect any arcing events in your home's electrical system. AFCIs distinguish between safe and dangerous arcs and quickly shut off power if the latter is detected. If you suspect you have an arc fault, it's best to call an experienced electrician who can diagnose the problem and recommend solutions to ensure your electrical system remains safe.

Home Safety Services in Marietta, GA

Having GFCIs and AFCIs installed in your home can significantly reduce the hazard of electrical faults. Schedule an appointment with our team at Lightning Bug Electric to have an experienced electrician evaluate your electrical system and install GFCIs or AFCIs as needed. Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry, and when it comes to electrical safety, it never hurts to be proactive.