Home Builders Institute Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate Training (HBI-PACT) Practice Test

What is the primary function of a GFCI?

1. Enhance electrical supply

2. Prevent electrical leakage

3. Control fire extinguishing systems

4. Provide structural support

The correct answer is: Prevent electrical leakage

The primary function of a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is to prevent electrical leakage, which is essential for enhancing safety in areas where electrical circuits could come into contact with water, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor settings. The GFCI monitors the flow of electricity in a circuit and quickly shuts off the power if it detects an imbalance, which indicates that electricity is flowing through an unintended path, such as water or a person. This reaction helps to prevent electrical shocks, which can be serious or even fatal. The other choices do not align with the function of a GFCI. While enhancing electrical supply is more closely related to electrical service providers or transformers, controlling fire extinguishing systems relates to safety equipment rather than electrical circuit safety. Providing structural support refers to building materials and design, which is unrelated to the electrical safety functions that a GFCI performs.