What does GFCI Tripping Repeatedly mean?
GFCI detects a ground fault current (as low as 4-6mA) between hot and ground. Can indicate real fault or equipment issue.
Common causes
- Faulty appliance with current leakage on circuit
- Moisture in outdoor outlet box
- Long circuit runs with distributed capacitance
- Damaged wiring with ground fault
- GFCI at end of life (average 10 year lifespan)
- Multiple GFCI devices in series
Diagnostic & testing steps
- 1. Remove all devices plugged into circuit
- 2. Reset GFCI - if trips immediately, fault is in wiring
- 3. Plug in appliances one at a time to identify which trips GFCI
- 4. Inspect outlet box for moisture or insulation damage
- 5. Use clamp meter to measure ground fault current (>5mA = GFCI will trip)
- 6. Test GFCI with test button - replace if does not trip
- 7. Check if GFCI is more than 10 years old - replace proactively
Tools required
- Multimeter
- Clamp meter with mA resolution
- Non-contact voltage tester
- GFCI outlet tester
OEM parts & part numbers
GFCI Outlet, GFCI Circuit Breaker
Part numbers: GFTR2-W, AGTR2
Safety warning
⚠️ ELECTROCUTION RISK: Do not work on GFCI while circuit is energized. Turn off breaker at panel. GFCI is a life-safety device - replace, never bypass.
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