Get to Know Your Homes Electrical System. A ground fault is an extreme event, when water or metal complete a circuit outside of the intended circuit. Direct metal to metal or water to metal electrical shorts are called dead shorts, and are easily detected by a GFCI device. However, when the fault in the circuit is less direct, it may not result in a dead short, but in electrical arcing, which a GFCI may not detect. In this case, as when a nail is driven into the wall and accidentally through an electric cable, the damage to the wires within can cause electricity to leap a very small gap, creating a white hot arc between the not quite touching metal wires. Accidental arcing in an electrical circuit is just like intentional arcing with an arc welder, with very hot temperatures resulting, sometimes exceeding 1. F. These high temperatures can ignite wood framing, insulation, and other nearby combustibles, potentially resulting in a house fire. Arcing can occur in many situations, including at loose connections or where furniture impinges on electrical cords, and can often occur inside of walls. How To Install Electrical Panel To Code' title='How To Install Electrical Panel To Code' />If youre building or remodeling, the experts at DIY Network offer advice on planning your homes electrical system. Homes typically have several kinds of home wiring, including Electrical wiring for lighting and power distribution, permanently installed and portable appliances.