Troubleshooting common GFCI sockets

 

Wear and tear

GFCI sockets are vulnerable to wear and tear, just like standard electrical sockets, so the sockets are expected to be less effective over time. One of the symptoms of GFCI socket overuse is that it clicks more than usual.

This is because a worn GFCI socket is not able to adapt to changes in electrical current like a new one. For this reason, when using the socket for hairdryers and heaters, the GFCI socket is prone to tripping. To solve this problem, simply install a new socket with earth switch.

Black wire touching bare earth

If your GFCI is relatively new, the problem may lie in the black and white wires. Go to the circuit breaker and turn off the circuit of the GFCI socket that has problems. Then unscrew the earth switch socket and pull it out of the box. Pull the black and white wires out of the GFCI socket. Using the ohmmeter, check whether there is continuity between the GFCI socket ground and the black and white wires.

If continuity is obtained by disconnecting the black and white wires, the problem could be that the black and white wires are in contact with the earth. A black wire coming into contact with the bare earth will usually cause an interruption of the socket.

Faulty circuit

GFCI sockets are often connected to each other in the home. For this reason, if a GFCI socket has affected downstream ones, the current will also be affected. When it comes to installing a GFCI socket, you must ensure that it is well connected to the entire circuit. The panel wires must be connected to the line terminals. There are two GFCI terminals: the load and the line.

After removing the dead wires, create pigtails for the hot wires and white wires from the GFCI sockets and connect them to the line terminals. The black wires should be connected to the brass line terminals, while the white wires should be connected to the silver line terminals.

Call the Emergency Electrician in Dudley. We are your right contact partner.