It is possible to install a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) in alternative of an ungrounded outlet without grounding the circuit initially.
This replacement is permitted by the National Electrical Code (NEC) for outlets lacking an equipment grounding conductor as a safety measure.
Here’s the how and why of this process:
- Safety Improvement: A ground fault circuit breaker (GFCI) lowers the possibility of electric shock by promptly cutting off the power when it detects a ground fault, or when current travels through an unauthorized path.
- Installation: To signal that an outlet is not grounded, a sticker that says “No Equipment Ground” should be placed on the GFCI when it is installed in the location of an ungrounded outlet.
- Protection: Even in the absence of a ground wire, the GFCI will continue to operate as intended and offer protection. It keeps an eye on the equilibrium of current flowing through the hot & neutral wires, and trips when it notices an imbalance that would point to a ground fault.
- Code Compliance: In older installations where installing a ground wire is impractical, replacing an ungrounded outlet with a GFCI is an approved technique of providing greater safety, according to the NEC.
It’s important to remember that although this technique increases safety, it does not provide as much security as a completely grounded system. Equipment that needs to be grounded for safety purposes must be connected to an outlet that is appropriately grounded.
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