GFCI or ground fault circuit interrupters provide personal protection from ground faults and open neutral conditions anywhere electrical equipment is used.
Protection for the job site, plant floor, or workshop. GFCI is UL listed and meets OSHA specifications. Made of 3-conductor, 12-gauge wire and with Polar/Solar jacket. The GFCI should always be placed nearest the power source. Plug in the GFCI, then the extension cord.
This 2ft GFCI has a molded Tri-Source 3-way power block with outlet covers for unused outlets.
This GFCI unit is rainproof, rated at 15-amp with test and reset buttons.
Specs:
- 2' 12/3 SJEOW Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter Extension Cord
- 3 Grounded Outlets
- 15A
- 120V
- UL Listed
- Meets OSHA Requirements
What is a GFCI Extension Cord?
A GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) extension cord is a specialized extension cord that contains a built-in GFCI device. This device rapidly cuts off the power (typically within 1/40th of a second) when it senses an imbalance in the current flow, like if a current escapes the intended path and risks traveling through a person. The GFCI function serves to protect users from electrical shocks.
Do you need a GFCI extension cord for a GFCI outlet?
Technically, if you're plugging into a GFCI outlet, the outlet itself should provide the necessary protection against ground faults. This means that a standard extension cord would already benefit from the GFCI protection if it's connected to a GFCI outlet. However, using a GFCI extension cord can offer an extra layer of protection, especially if you're uncertain about the functionality of the GFCI outlet or if you later use the extension cord with a non-GFCI outlet.
What's the usage of it?
The primary usage of a GFCI extension cord is to provide ground fault protection in situations or areas where such protection might not be available. Some common scenarios include:
- Outdoor Use: Especially in damp or wet conditions, such as when using electric lawn equipment, holiday lighting, or power tools outside.
- Construction Sites: Power tools and machinery used at construction sites are often at risk of ground faults due to rough and frequently changing environments. A GFCI extension cord can be crucial for worker safety.
- Indoor Areas with Water: Such as bathrooms, kitchens, or basements, where there might be a risk of water coming into contact with electrical devices.
- Temporary Power Needs: In situations where you need to use power temporarily in a location that doesn't have a GFCI outlet.
In essence, a GFCI extension cord provides a mobile layer of safety, ensuring that no matter where you use electrical devices, you have protection against potential ground faults.
Why is it important to have a waterproof GFCI?
The importance of waterproofing in GFCI extension cords mainly pertains to their common areas of application and the nature of ground faults. Here's why waterproofing is crucial:
- Risk of Electrical Shock in Wet Conditions: Water is a good conductor of electricity. If an extension cord is exposed to water and is not waterproof, unintended electrical pathways will likely form. This can lead to electrical shock when a person comes into contact with the water or the wet cord.
- Usage in Wet or Damp Environments: GFCI extension cords are frequently used outdoors or in environments where moisture is common (like bathrooms or near pools). In such environments, there's a constant threat of the cord coming into contact with water, either due to rain, splashing, or condensation.
- Protection Against Ground Faults: The very purpose of a GFCI is to protect against ground faults, which are more likely to occur when water is introduced to the equation. Ensuring the cord is waterproof complements the GFCI's function by reducing the likelihood of water-induced faults.
- Enhanced Durability: Water can degrade and damage the insulation and materials of cords over time. Waterproofing ensures the longevity of the extension cord and its continued safe operation.
- Prevention of Short Circuits: Water intrusion can cause short circuits, which can then lead to sparks or fires. A waterproof design helps prevent such scenarios.
- Protection of Connected Devices: Water can damage the extension cord itself and lead to the malfunction of devices connected to the cord. A waterproof GFCI extension cord ensures that the devices plugged into it are not subjected to water-induced electrical anomalies.
