What is commonly used to protect circuits from ground faults?

The use of a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is designed specifically to protect circuits from ground faults. Ground faults occur when there is an unintended path between the electrical current and the ground, which can lead to electric shock or electrical fires. A GFCI continuously monitors the current flowing through the circuit. In case it detects an imbalance between the outgoing and incoming current, which indicates a leakage to ground, the GFCI quickly disconnects the circuit, thereby cutting off the power and minimizing the risk of electric shock.

This safety device is especially important in areas where the risk of ground faults is higher, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor locations. The GFCI's rapid response to electrical imbalances is a core feature that distinguishes it from standard circuit protection devices, providing a critical layer of safety for low voltage communication systems as well as standard electrical installations.

In contrast, fuses serve a different purpose, providing overcurrent protection by breaking the circuit if the current exceeds a specified level, but they do not specifically address ground faults. Transformers are used to change voltage levels in circuits and do not provide safety features against faults. Capacitors primarily store electric charge and facilitate filtering in circuits but do not protect against ground faults. Therefore