One of the most common electrical devices I replace in a home is the GFI. The GFI or GFCI Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter device's only reason for existence is to prevent electrical shock or worse, electrocution. The definition of electrocution is death by electrical shock.

Technically, the GFCI senses the electrical current flowing between the electrically hot wire and the ground wire. This electrical current should be equal. If the electrical current flow is not equal, even 3 to 4 milliamps difference, it will trip in less than 1 second.

For example, if you are using a hair dryer and because it somehow gets wet and some small part of the electrical current flows through your body instead of through the GFCI, then it will open the circuit and shut off current flow to the hair dryer.

You should find these devices where ever there is a chance you may come in contact with electricity and water, such as the kitchen, bathroom, unfinished basement, outdoors, and in your garage.

There are 3 main types in use in homes and businesses today. The 1st is the wall plug (see photo). The second is a device used on extension cords and is mobile and easy to use anywhere, and the third is in your breaker panel.
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My final comment on these lifesaving devices is that they should be tested monthly. To test them, trip the button marked test, and then reset it with the button marked reset. If it will not trip, or it will not reset, have a qualified electrician check it out for you. These devices are often at the head of a circuit that controls many other receptacles, if they are not wired correctly into the GFCI, it and they will not be protected.

Today, many homeowners are trying to do more of the repair and maintenance tasks on their homes.  One of the easiest and least costly tasks to do is changing the filters in their home Air Conditioning System.  Often though, this task is one of the most overlooked and misunderstood jobs.  I hope to help remedy this over my next few blogs.

Here’s some quick tips to get started:

• Though it is a basic principal for air conditioning, I often get asked are filters really necessary?  Yes, they should be checked often and replaced regularly.
• I get asked how often should the filters be checked, and how often should the filters be replaced.  For any one inch or two inch filter, I recommend the filter be visually checked every month and changed at least every two months.  If it is even just a little dirty after one month then replace it monthly.  A new filter allows better airflow and helps the system last much longer.  A new filter will often slide into the filter rack easier than the old one too. 
• Clean the return filter grill and the area behind it at least once a year. 
• Have the return duct from the filter grill to the air handler or furnace checked for leaks into the system.  Any leak that allows air to bypass the filter is getting unfiltered dirt and possibly dangerous contaminants such as blown insulation into your system and home.  These circulating particles can cause system deterioration, allow dirt to be introduced and circulate throughout your home, create health issues, and can greatly increase your utility bill.  
• If your supply grills or the area around them look dirty, then dirt, smoke, mold, or some other substance is circulating in your system.  Have the system serviced. 
•  Have a licensed and competent Air Conditioning Company service your system at least twice a year.  A good service technician can help your system last longer, help make your home atmosphere cleaner and more comfortable, and save you money in the long run.

At Clear Springs Air Conditioning and Electric, we pride ourselves in the quality of service we provide.  We are committed to being a service organization first.  Many so called service companies focus on sales not on service.  We do not.  We will not hurry through your service or repairs so we can make a sale elsewhere.  We are as happy to do your twice yearly system service checkup as we are to install a new system.  Please follow us on Facebook as we delve further into filters and other home improvement matters.