Major electrical upgrades are best done by a qualified electrician, but replacing a single outlet can sometimes be done by the homeowner. Upgrading a standard outlet to a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlet or an Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) outlet might be a wise decision.

Step 1: Electrical outlets work when power flows from the electrical panel via a “hot” wire through the outlet and then back to the electrical panel via the “neutral” wire. When this circuit is broken, electricity can flow though other objects, causing potential life-threatening situations.

A GFCI outlet senses when the amount of power flowing through the “hot” and “neutral” wires does not match and cuts off the flow of power, breaking the circuit. Choose a GFCI outlet for areas where moisture is a concern, such as kitchens, bathrooms and unfinished basements. Always use GFCI outlets for electrical outlets mounted on the exterior of the home and for outlets that are within six feet of a water source.

Step 2: When electrical wires become loose or broken, current can escape and ionize gas in the air. This flash of uncontained electrical current is known as arcing. Arc faults are the main cause of electrical fires and because power can still flow through the circuit when arcing occurs, it is often difficult to identify the problem until it is too late. AFCI outlets identify arcing when it occurs and cut off the power to the circuit.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that AFCI outlets could prevent up to 50 percent of all electrical fires.

Choose AFCI outlets for bedrooms, living rooms, attics and most other living areas. Newer homes should have AFCI circuit breakers in the electrical panel, eliminating the need for individual AFCI outlets.

Step 3: Replacing the first outlet on each circuit with an AFCI or GFCI outlet will protect all of the other outlets on that same circuit. To confirm which outlet is the first on the circuit, choose the outlet closest to the door in any given room. Turn off the power, disconnect the outlet and cap each wire with an individual wire nut. Turn the circuit back on and test the other outlets in the room. If the disconnected outlet is the first in the circuit, none of the other outlets will work. Replace the first outlet on each circuit to ensure all outlets are protected.