ECN Forum
Posted By: Currently Panel GFCI Breakers - 04/28/02 05:56 PM
When a GFCI breaker fails, does it fail in the "safe mode"? By that I mean the circuit cannot work until you replace the breaker.

All of the outlet GFCI's that I have replaced have failed in this fashion. Has anyone known of an instance where one has failed and still provide power?
Posted By: sparky Re: Panel GFCI Breakers - 04/28/02 06:45 PM
Welcome Currently;
yes, this is a problem that has been the rooot of many ROP's. Leviton has come out with a GFI device that has a 'lockout' feature (probably because they read the ROP's?!)

Quote
Definition:
Leviton adds an innovative new product to the field of ground fault protection with the introduction of a lockout action GFCI receptacle. With this patent-pending innovative feature, a Leviton exclusive, the TEST and RESET functions work together so that a tripped GFCI cannot be reset if the GFCI circuit no longer provides ground fault protection.

[Linked Image from leviton.com]
[Linked Image from darwinawards.com]
Posted By: pauluk Re: Panel GFCI Breakers - 04/28/02 07:12 PM
Hmm, interesting idea, but what if the GFI goes faulty before it has a chance to trip?

Aren't we back to the old problem of convincing people that the TEST button is there for a reason?
© ECN Electrical Forums