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View Full Version : Why is my new washer keeps tripping new GFCI?


gs1211
Mar 9, 2010, 02:36 AM
I purchased a my washer and dryer. Plugged in both. Dryer works great, washer will trip its gcfi after a few seconds of being started. Both outlets are gfci protected, both are wired with 12 gauge wire into a 20 amp breaker. Plug the washer into a separate non-gfci outlet and washer works fine. Can the gfci be weak, bad or should I run a separate circuit for the washer?

tkrussell
Mar 9, 2010, 03:51 AM
Could be a defective GFI, or could be just a fault in the machine. A washer does not need GFI protection. I assume the dryer is gas?

denman
Mar 10, 2010, 04:45 PM
Remove the GFCI, not necessary. The motor surge at start up will sometimes trip GFCI.

stanfortyman
Mar 10, 2010, 05:14 PM
Remove the GFCI, not necessary. Are you sure about this? What if it is within 6' of a laundry sink?

Missouri Bound
Mar 11, 2010, 10:04 PM
Doesn't that 6' rule apply to countertop outlets?

stanfortyman
Mar 12, 2010, 04:29 AM
Doesn't that 6' rule apply to countertop outlets?Not for a long time in kitchens, and in laundry areas there is no counter top reference. Just 6', period.

That's why denman's advice is kind of dangerous.

tkrussell
Mar 12, 2010, 06:26 AM
Stan is correct.

While a washer does not need GFI normally, it must have GFI protection if it happens to be within six foot of any sink.

Some input from gs1211 would be great.

denman
Mar 12, 2010, 06:46 AM
Sorry about answering without clarifiying washer basin location. You know what they say about assuming.