Electrician how-to
How to Install a GFCI Receptacle
GFCI receptacles protect people from shock in kitchens, bathrooms, garages and outdoors. Follow code and turn off power first.
GFCI receptacles protect people from shock in kitchens, bathrooms, garages and outdoors. Follow code and turn off power first. In short: turn; remove; connect, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Turn off the circuit at the breaker, then lock it out and verify absence of voltage.
Remove the old receptacle and identify the incoming power (LINE) conductors with a tester before disconnecting, if downstream receptacles are present.
Connect the incoming hot (black) and neutral (white) conductors to the GFCI’s LINE terminals.
Connect any downstream conductors to the LOAD terminals to protect those outlets, if desired.
Connect the equipment grounding conductor to the green screw.
Fold conductors neatly into the box, mount the receptacle and attach the cover plate.
Restore power and test with the TEST and RESET buttons and a GFCI tester.
Safety reminders for electricians
- Always verify absence of voltage before touching conductors
- Follow lockout/tagout and NFPA 70E arc-flash requirements
- Use ladders and fall protection correctly
- Wear arc-rated PPE, safety glasses and insulated gloves as required
Key terms
Voltage (V) · Current (A) · Resistance (Ω) · Ohm’s law · NEC · GFCI: see the full electrician glossary.