A phone call from a customer prompted us to write this post. The customer reached out to Lauterborn Electric with a nuisance tripping kitchen GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter).
She mentioned her brother (not sure if he’s an electrician) had replaced the receptacle multiple times but the problem persisted.
I asked her what she was plugging into the devices affected by the GFCI. Her response was just a 30 year old toaster and she assured me it was in good condition as she plugged it into a non GFCI receptacle without any issues.
A GFCI receptacle is designed to trip when there’s an imbalance of current coming from and going through the device. Older appliances tend to leak current.
GFCI receptacles are required by NEC code in areas near water and it’s been proven to save lives.
In simpler terms, if an appliance is leaking current creating a potential shock hazard, the GFCI receptacle would detect that and trip.
Manufacturers recommend replacing your GFCI receptacles every 12-15 years. They also recommend testing your GFCIs to make sure they are tripping properly.
For all of your electrical needs contact your licensed Philadelphia electricians Lauterborn Electric.
