Which type of circuit breaker is designed to protect against ground faults?

The Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is specifically designed to protect against ground faults, which occur when there is an unintended path between a source of current and the grounded surface. This can happen, for example, when electrical equipment is used in wet areas, making individuals susceptible to electric shocks.

GFCIs work by constantly monitoring the electrical current flowing through the circuit. If they detect any imbalance between the outgoing and returning current, indicative of a ground fault, they quickly cut off the power to prevent electrical shock. This rapid response is crucial for safety in areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor settings where moisture is likely to be present.

In contrast, standard circuit breakers primarily protect against overloads and short circuits, while arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) are focused on preventing fires by detecting unintended arcs that can occur in damaged wiring. These other types of breakers do not provide the same level of ground fault protection that GFCIs offer.