What is the primary purpose of a GFCI outlet?

The primary purpose of a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlet is to protect against ground faults, which can occur when there is a fault in the electrical circuit. This can happen if there is a disruption in the normal flow of electricity, such as when a person inadvertently touches a live wire while in contact with the ground, creating a path for the current to flow through their body. GFCI outlets detect the imbalance between the outgoing and incoming current and quickly shut off the power to prevent electric shock.

Understanding this function is crucial, especially in environments where water is present, such as bathrooms or kitchens, because the likelihood of ground faults is significantly higher in wet conditions. By immediately cutting off power when a fault is detected, GFCI outlets greatly reduce the risk of severe injury or fatality due to electric shock.

The other options do not accurately represent the primary function of a GFCI outlet. While providing extra outlets, acting as a power switch, or enhancing efficiency are useful characteristics of other electrical devices, they do not capture the essential protective role that GFCIs play in ensuring safety from ground faults.