What is one of the key advantages of using GFCI protection?

The primary advantage of using Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection is its ability to reduce the risk of electrical shock. GFCIs are designed to monitor the current flowing through a circuit, and if they detect an imbalance—meaning that some current is leaking away (potentially through a person)—the GFCI will quickly cut off the electrical supply. This fast response can prevent serious injury or fatality in situations where an individual inadvertently comes into contact with a live electrical source.

The other options do not reflect the primary purpose of a GFCI. For instance, GFCIs do not increase circuit resistance or prevent overloads; those functions are typically managed by circuit breakers and fuses. Additionally, while a GFCI might contribute to safer energy use overall, it does not directly improve energy efficiency like dedicated energy-saving devices would. Thus, reducing the risk of electrical shock is the most significant feature of GFCI protection, making it an essential safety device in areas where water and electricity may coincide, such as kitchens and bathrooms.