Humber/Ontario Real Estate Course 3 Exam Practice

What is the primary purpose of ground fault circuit interrupters?

1. To be installed on all circuits in new buildings.

2. To be commonly associated with older knob-and-tube wiring.

3. To detect minor leakages in electrical circuits.

4. To be used solely in bathrooms and outdoor outlets.

5. To ensure that all electrical outlets are childproof.

6. To enhance the overall efficiency of electrical systems.

The correct answer is: To detect minor leakages in electrical circuits.

The primary purpose of ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) is indeed to detect minor leakages in electrical circuits. These devices are designed to monitor the current flowing through a circuit, and they can sense discrepancies between the outgoing and incoming current. If a ground fault—an unintended path of electric current—occurs, the GFCI will trip and cut off the electricity, which helps prevent electrical shocks and potential electrocution. This is especially important in areas where water is present, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces, making GFCIs crucial for enhancing safety in these environments. Other options, while they may reflect some aspects related to GFCIs, do not capture their primary function. For instance, while GFCIs are often installed in new buildings and recommended for various areas, they are not mandated for every circuit. They are also not specific to older electrical systems such as knob-and-tube wiring. Furthermore, GFCIs are not limited to just bathrooms and outdoor outlets; they can be installed in any location where the risk of electric shock is increased. Thus, their main role focuses specifically on detecting current leakage to protect users from electric shock rather than serving the other purposes mentioned.