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    gwhanne's Avatar
    gwhanne Posts: 4, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Sep 13, 2011, 03:39 PM
    What causes breaker with bad GFCI to run controls but not pumps on our hot tub?
    240V breaker with bad gfci(wouldn't do anything when you pushed test)runs the controls on the spa but won't power on the pumps. Relay just clicks. When I installed a new breaker with good gfci the breaker trips immediately. Any ideas as I'm ready to sell the hot tub and want it to work properly. It has been running fine for 3 years. Thank you all so much. I appreciate any help. In Jesus name, gary.
    twinkiedooter's Avatar
    twinkiedooter Posts: 12,172, Reputation: 1054
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    #2

    Sep 13, 2011, 03:44 PM
    There is a short somewhere in the line. You'll just have to meticulously test the line to find where there is a break. If you already changed out the GFCI then you know it's not that so the only thing left is the line itself or the pump itself.
    gwhanne's Avatar
    gwhanne Posts: 4, Reputation: 1
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    #3

    Sep 13, 2011, 04:12 PM
    A brother is stopping by tomorrow to see if he can help. Thanks for the info.
    tkrussell's Avatar
    tkrussell Posts: 9,659, Reputation: 725
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    #4

    Sep 14, 2011, 03:00 AM
    The old GFI breaker has one bad leg, and one good one that allows 120 volts to pass for the controls.

    There is a ground fault that is tripping the new breaker.

    Fault can be the pump, if that is 240 volts, most likely the heater, which is 240 volts and immersed in water.
    gwhanne's Avatar
    gwhanne Posts: 4, Reputation: 1
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    #5

    Sep 14, 2011, 04:01 AM
    Thank you tkrussell as well. This is absolutely wonderful to have a place with such helpful souls. After draining, I can check the heater. This shut down occurred just after the earthquake so I'll check the ground to the pumps today. I appreciate you all. Blessings in Jesus name.
    Stratmando's Avatar
    Stratmando Posts: 11,188, Reputation: 508
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    #6

    Sep 21, 2011, 04:35 PM
    Just too add, Test the GFI Breaker with no load. If it trips with 240 volt stuff, you need to separate one by one to determine which has the Fault. If they plug in, unplug each/all to see which one causes the fault.
    Heaters can heat and bend which can cause it to contact the Housing, Tripping the Ground Fault?
    gwhanne's Avatar
    gwhanne Posts: 4, Reputation: 1
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    #7

    Sep 22, 2011, 07:02 AM
    Thanks to everyone who sent a response. A brother is picking it up today and will heed your advice and I'm certain will be successful. Thank you all for being used by our LORD. Blessings, peace, and hope from GOD our FATHER and the Lord Jesus Christ. AMen.
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