What is the role of a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)?

The primary role of a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is to protect against ground faults, which occur when electrical current travels along an unintended path, such as through water or a person's body. This can happen when a device is faulty or damaged, leading to the risk of electric shock or electrocution.

GFCIs monitor the current flow in the circuit and can detect even small discrepancies between the outgoing and incoming current. When such an imbalance is detected, indicating that current is escaping to the ground, the GFCI quickly interrupts the circuit, cutting off the electrical flow and reducing the risk of shock. This device is especially important in areas where water is present, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor locations, making it a crucial safety feature in modern electrical systems.

While regulating voltage, preventing circuit overload, and enhancing circuit capacity are important aspects of electrical systems, they do not directly pertain to the specific function of a GFCI. The GFCI is purely focused on detecting ground faults and providing immediate protection against the associated dangers.