GFI vs. GFCI: What’s the Difference?

Electrical safety is a top priority when remodeling or building a home. You may have heard that GFI or GFCI outlets play a vital role in preventing electrical shock. But what exactly do those terms mean? And what makes them different from one another? Here’s how GFI vs. GFCI compare in the categories of appearance, location, and usage. 

What Are the Differences Between GFI and GFCI?

Ground fault interrupter (GFI) and ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) are often interchangeable terms. Both are electrical devices equipped with the same function: to detect ground faults and cut power, protecting individuals from deadly electrical shock. The difference between GFI and GFCI lies in terminology and usage. GFIs only refer to outlets, while GFCIs can be electrical outlets, breakers, or receptacles. The term GFCI is more widely and formally used than GFI.

GFI vs. GFCI: Differences in Appearance

There’s generally no difference in appearance between a GFI and GFCI, since the two terms can refer to the same electrical device. However, because a GFCI can be an electrical outlet, breaker, or other receptacle, appearance will vary based on the type of GFCI device. For example, a GFCI outlet, GFCI circuit breaker, and portable GFCI all look different, despite having the exact same function. The most important thing is to choose the correct GFCI device based on your electrical needs. 

Key Visual Features of a GFCI Outlet

• Two vertical plug slots 

• One ground hole

• Red rectangular “RESET” button

• Black rectangular “TEST” button

• LED light to signal power status 

Key Visual Features of a GFCI Circuit Breaker 

• Located in the main electrical panel 

• “Test” and “Reset” buttons 

• Several breakers connected to household circuits

• May have LED lights 

• Can be single-pole (120V) or dual-pole (240V)

Location Differences

We’ve already established that although GFI and GFCI are synonymous terms, GFCI can include a variety of electrical devices. With that in mind, installation location will differ based on the type of device and your home’s specific needs. GFCI outlets are commonly installed near where water sources are found, including the kitchen, bathroom, garage, laundry room, and outside of the home. Outlets should be easily accessible and in full compliance with National Electrical Code (NEC) GFCI requirements.

A GFCI circuit breaker is installed in the main electrical panel and protects an entire circuit. Bigger homes may have subpanels that also have GFCI circuit breakers. 

While GFCI installation can technically be done DIY with a certain level of skill, it’s always safest to hire a local electrician to do the job.

Usage Differences

GFI is used exclusively for individual wall outlets, whereas GFCI can refer to the use of both outlets and circuit breakers. GFI outlets are used for targeted protection in one specific area of the house. For example, you may install a GFI outlet near your bathroom sink to meet NEC code and prevent electrocution. A GFCI circuit breaker, meanwhile, will protect all the wiring, outlets, switches, and appliances on that circuit.