GFCI receptacles can protect which of the following if properly wired?

• A. Upstream receptacles
• B. All receptacles on the circuit
• C. Downstream receptacles
• D. No receptacles

Answer: (C)

GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) receptacles are designed to provide protection from electrical shock by monitoring the electrical current flowing through the circuit. If it detects an imbalance between the incoming and outgoing current, which can occur during a ground fault, the GFCI quickly interrupts the current flow.

When properly wired, a GFCI receptacle can protect downstream receptacles, meaning any receptacles that are wired in a series to the GFCI. The GFCI receptacle acts as the first point of protection, and will trip and cut off power to any downstream devices if a fault is detected. This is a common practice in electrical installations to ensure that not just the GFCI outlet itself is protected, but also other outlets that may be used for devices in locations where water exposure is a concern, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoors.

In contrast, upstream receptacles, which are connected before the GFCI in the circuit, are not protected. Similarly, saying that all receptacles on the circuit would be protected implies the GFCI's protective effects extend throughout the entire circuit, which is not accurate as it only covers those downstream of the device. Therefore, understanding the positioning and wiring of the GFCI