Wiring GFCI Outlets
When wiring a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet the neutral (white) wire should connect to the silver metal screw. The hot (black) wire should connector to the brass colored screw. wire. GFCI outlets have one set of screwed label "LINE" and one set of screws labeled "LOAD". You must connect the wires that are sourcing power to the outlet to the "LINE" screws. As show in the picture below, there is usually a sticker covered the "load" screws to prevent you from connecting to them unless you are purposely daisy chaining them to other outlets.
NOTE:
If you miswire a GFCI outlet it may not prevent personal injury or death
due to a ground fault (electrical shock).
If you mistakenly connect the LINE wires to the LOAD terminals, the
GFCI will still operate like an ordinary outlet, but will not
interrupt a ground fault.
Wiring a GFCI outlet should be done with attention to detail and you must test the outlet when you complete to ensure it is working properly.
GFCI Outlet Wiring Diagram -(pdf, 55kb)
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