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View Full Version : GFCI Outlet Keeps Tripping


CreativeNotHandy
Dec 21, 2008, 10:43 AM
I have a GFCI outlet that keeps trippping. We've been in this house for years and have never had this problem. We don't have any additional appliances/lighting etc. running on this circuit or anywhere in the house for that matter.

It keeps tripping after reset; sometimes immediately sometimes after several minutes or an hour.

What could be causing this?:confused:

ballengerb1
Dec 21, 2008, 11:07 AM
GFCI units can go bad. They aren't terriubly expensive and keeping a spare is not the worst idea I have heard off. Kill the power to that circuit and install a new GFCI, does it trip too? Any chance of water getting onto this circuit like from a shower or sprinkler. What is protected by this GFCI?

CreativeNotHandy
Dec 21, 2008, 11:15 AM
It's on a bathroom outlet, but there are ceiling lights throughout the length of the house that share the circuit.
This circuit is on main floor of a 1 story modular ranch so no water from a shower or sprinkler.
There is a bad snow storm occurring now but I can't think how snow could get to the circuit.
I will replace it when I can get out after the storm.
Let me know if you think of anything else meanwhile. THANKS, Ballengerb1!

EPMiller
Dec 21, 2008, 01:09 PM
CNH,

Just to second ballengerb1, those symptoms are ones I have seen several times in failing GFCI's.

EPM

irishdingbat42
Dec 21, 2008, 01:29 PM
Aluminium wiring a possibility? Or wires running though places they aren't supposed to? Some electricians aren't smart and may do what's easier as apposed to what's dictated by code, I had a aluminum to copper problem that put a huge black burn mark above a set of french doors we had... stupid electrician.. or maybe you ran a nail though the wiring by accident... check the wiring