Q: What is the difference between a GFCI and Circuit Breaker?

A: A GFCI is designed with the goal of keeping the operator safe, if a current leak is detected the current will be interrupted. This trip can be caused by any imbalance between hot and neutral lines, even something as small as 4 to 5 milliamps or if any power is flowing through anything other than the circuit (such as a human). A circuit breaker is designed to protect your equipment by not allow your circuit to overheat. For example, a 5A circuit breaker will not allow over 5A of current through the circuit.