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Syracuse, N.Y. — Dec. 11, 2014 — Legrand, a leading provider of electrical wiring devices, announced the availability of its new Pass & Seymour Self-Test GFCI with SafeLock Protection (Pass & Seymour Self-Test GFCI). Pass & Seymour invented the first GFCI Receptacle in 1971.
The new 2015 UL requirements for GFCIs require an automatic test every three hours. The new device surpasses this upcoming standard by testing itself every three seconds.
If the device fails the test, a red flashing indicator light signals that it is time to replace the device. Its SafeLock Protection feature automatically disconnects power to the receptacle if it detects that critical components are damaged and protection is lost.
The Pass & Seymour Self-Test GFCI meets National Electrical Code tamper-resistant requirements. Its tamper-resistant capabilities are boosted thanks to a patented automatic shutter system that helps prevent the improper insertion of foreign objects.
Not only is it FSUL Listed (Federal Specification WC596), but it also exceeds UL943 voltage surge requirements and survives 100X the required UL 3kA/6kV voltage surge test cycles.
The new Self-Test GFCI is easier to install than competing products because it is thinner, leaving more room for wires in the box. It also has an auto-ground clip and a ground screw with a back wire clamp. All mounting screws are shipped captive in the device and wall plate.
It also has side or internal screw-pressure plate back-wire termination with #14-#10 AWG stranded or solid, copper, or copperclad conductors.
Two back-wire holes per termination add wiring flexibility, eliminate pig tailing, and save box space. This also prevents line-load miswires if wiring is done incorrectly by stopping the transmission of power to the device face and downstream receptacles.
“The ability for GFCI receptacles to test themselves on an ongoing basis is a crucial part of managing electrical risk,” said Bill Timmons, director of marketing—residential at Legrand. “We are excited about the prospects of our new GFCI. It benefits homeowners by maintaining electrical safety at home, lets contractors install a new device with great speed and confidence, and allows distributors to offer their customer base a much more advanced GFCI device.”
The new GFCI is available as 15A/125V or 20A/125V duplex receptacles. Both versions have dual-direction test and reset buttons.
The Pass & Seymour Self-Test GFCI is manufactured from high-impact-resistant thermoplastic construction, which provides superior strength and durability. It is available in the U.S. and Canada in the following colors: ivory, black, nickel, antique brass, dark bronze, light almond, white, red, brown, and gray.
