What is the purpose of a GFCI outlet?

The purpose of a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet is primarily to protect against electrical shock, especially in wet locations. These outlets are designed to monitor the flow of electricity in a circuit. If they detect any imbalance in the electrical current, such as when electricity flows through water or a person, they can quickly shut off the power. This mechanism helps prevent potentially fatal shocks that can occur when a person comes into contact with water and an electrical source.

GFCI outlets are commonly used in areas where the risk of water contact is high, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor spaces. Their installation in these environments is critical for safety, as water is an excellent conductor of electricity.

The other options relate to functions that are not aligned with the specific safety purpose of GFCI outlets. While providing additional circuit capacity or serving as a standard outlet are important aspects of electrical systems, GFCI outlets focus solely on preventing electric shock in potentially hazardous situations. Similarly, increasing voltage supply is not a function of GFCI outlets, which maintain a standard voltage level while enhancing safety.