It would seem to me that a dedicated 15 amp circuit with a GFCI breaker rated for 30ma trip setting (equipment use) would solve some of the issue. The tripping of a 5ma GFCI receptacle or breaker with a 5ma setting can be annoying but I say if it trips and can be reset, something caused the trip and the unit did what it was designed to do. Keeping in mind that a GFCI u-ground receptacle is designed for life/safety and must trip at no more that a 5ma current to ground. Given the odd ball types of devices that can be plugged into a U-ground, the reasons for a "trip" are endless but "nuisance" should be change to "misuse".
As a dedicated circuit one could use a NEMA configuration that rejects the use of 15R devices but allows the snow melting cable to be connected.
The breaker can/should be in a dead front panel with locking device unless the maintenance staff use the breakers as switches. This is a common capital cost reduction method for "quick and dirty" installations. The breaker is readily identifiable so mistakes are rare.
It would seem that the HUGHES people are requesting a GFCI type device. The customer is always right, right?
To eliminate the constant surveilance by staff, I like n1st's idea of a pilot light or some method of annunciation that's hard to ignore if the trip occurs.
-15 Deg F. with a 50 Deg F. windchill. That's almost a heat wave where I am today.
-20 Deg Celsus with a wind chill of 38 Deg Celsius. (you do the math)
Any hoooo this is only the rant and raving of an old man.
Post a reply to the thread that lets us know what was done and its acceptability to the customer, insurance and inspection.
Doug......et al
