Most Asked Questions About GFCI Issues

Ground fault circuit interrupter outlets (GFCI), as the name suggests, are designed to break the circuit every time there’s an imbalance in the electrical current. These outlets are equipped with a sensor that monitors electrical current flowing through a circuit. In the event of an imbalance or excess current flow, the GFCI immediately trips.

At Mr. Electric, we get many questions from homeowners and commercial property owners regarding GFCI outlets and how they work. Let’s look at some of the frequently asked questions about GFCI issues.

My GFCI Outlet Makes a Weird Buzzing Noise—Is It Dangerous?

The possible reasons behind a weird buzzing noise coming from a GFCI outlet include a recent reset, loose wiring, old wiring, breaker issues, and improper installation. A buzzing outlet can be dangerous if the problem is not resolved early enough. For instance, loose and old wiring can cause electric shocks or fires. If your GFCI outlet is making a weird buzzing sound and you haven’t reset it recently, you should reach out to a reliable electrician to perform an inspection and make repairs.

Why Does My GFCI Outlet Feel Hot to The Touch?

Your GFCI should be at normal room temperature. An outlet that feels hot to the touch points to a problem that needs to be checked. Some possible reasons your electrical outlets are hot to the touch include faulty plugs, unreasonable demand on the outlet, unreasonable demand on the circuit, damaged wiring, or an oversized breaker. You should never ignore an electrical outlet that is hot or warm, as it could lead to more expensive repairs and replacements.

My GFCI Trips Randomly—Do I Need to Replace It?

GFCI outlets are designed to trip when a ground fault is detected, but random tripping points to a more serious issue that needs to be addressed by an electrician. Some of the main reasons why a GFCI outlet keeps tripping are moisture in the receptacle box, an overloaded circuit, an electrical fault resulting from faulty wiring, or a faulty GFCI outlet. If the issue is accumulation of moisture in the receptacle box, turn off the breaker and use a blow dryer to dry it. Issues like faulty wiring, faulty GFCI outlets, or an overloaded circuit should be left to an experienced electrician.

Why Won’t My Plugs Stay in My GFCI Outlets?

When plugs fall out of GFCI outlets, the problem could be the prongs or the receptacles. Loose GFCI electrical outlets are often caused by worn-out contact points, which typically happens over time. For loose, cracked, or worn-out GFCI outlets, the best solution is to have a qualified electrician replace them. 

Can I Install A GFCI Outlet Myself?

Electrical work can be dangerous if you are not a professional electrician with extensive industry experience. You should never attempt to do electrical work yourself, unless you are a qualified electrician. Electrical outlet installation should be left to professional electricians.

Call Electrical Outlet Installation and All of Your Electrical Service Needs

Are you in need of electrical outlet installation, electrical outlet repair, or inspection? Reach out to Mr. Electric for reliable and cost-effective services. Mr. Electric provides a wide range of electrical services, including electrical installations, electrical repairs, and maintenance services.