Electrical 101

GFCI Line and Load Wiring

Power is connected to the GFCI or AFCI line side. Protected outlet(s) will be connected to the GFCI or AFCI load side as shown below. Ground connection is not shown.

*Line and load terminal locations can differ between GFCI or AFCI outlet brands.

GFCI and AFCI outlet with one standard outlet connected to its load

GFCI or AFCI outlet with two standard outlets connected to its load

GFCI Load Wiring Diagram

Line side*

Load side*

(Covered by yellow tape when new)

Protected outlet

Outlets and Plugs

GFCI & AFCI

GFCI & AFCI Location Requirements

GFCI & AFCI Wiring

GFCI Wiring Configuration

GFCI Location Form

Line Side*

Load Side*

Ground connection is not shown

*Line and load terminal locations can differ between outlet brands.

GFCI outlets have two sets of terminals (two sides). The line side connects to line voltage, the load side can connect to other outlets that will have the same protection. Power is connected to the GFCI and AFCI line side as shown. The load side of the GFCI and AFCI will have yellow tape over it and is not connected in the diagram below.

AFCI Wiring

AFCI outlets are wired the same as GFCI outlets

Can I Install a GFCI without a Ground Wire?

Yes, they will work properly if there is no ground. A plug tester with a GFCI test button will not trip a GFCI because the tester leaks a small amount of current from line to ground. The GFCI and AFCI test button is used for testing.

GFCI Adapters

These adapters can be used on a standard outlet. Plug the adapter into an outlet and anything you plug into the adapter will have GFCI protection.

GFCI Wiring