ESA Certified Alarm Technician Practice Exam

What type of outlet features a small breaker as a component?

1. GFCI

2. RFI

3. Surge Protector

4. Standard Duplex

The correct answer is: GFCI

The correct answer is GFCI, which stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. This type of outlet is designed to protect against electrical shock by monitoring the current flowing through the circuit. If it detects an imbalance between the outgoing and incoming current, which indicates a potential ground fault (such as when a person comes into contact with water), the GFCI quickly interrupts the circuit by tripping a small breaker inside the outlet. This mechanism is crucial in areas where water and electricity can come into contact, such as kitchens and bathrooms, thereby enhancing safety. The small breaker is a defining feature of the GFCI, distinguishing it from standard outlets that do not have this protective capability. In contrast, surge protectors are designed to protect electronic devices from voltage spikes but do not feature a breaker; instead, they often use fuses or include circuits that absorb excess voltage. RFI (Radio Frequency Interference) outlets typically do not exist as standard outlet types, making them less relevant in this context. A standard duplex outlet does not incorporate a breaker mechanism and serves as the most common type of electrical outlet found in homes.