once in awhile my ground fault breaker would trip and i would reset it, last night it tripped 3 times in a row

Answer 1

What type loads are on the GFCI circuit? There are three ways in which the breaker could be tripping.
One is over current, the same way any normal breaker would trip. Draw too high a load and it will open.
The second way is an imbalance in line and neutral currents. If there is an insulation problem causing current to flow in the ground wire instead of returning on the neutral the breaker will trip. This is a protection supplied by the GFCI circuitry. For instance, if you are using an electric lawnmower which has faulty wiring, current could flow through the handle to your arms, and return to the electrical panel through the wet ground. Detecting this leakage current could save your life. There could be a similar problem elsewhere on the circuit, depending on what else is plugged in.
Of course there is also the possibility of a faulty GFCI outlet or breaker.

Read through these two sites to better understand GFCI operation.
http://misterfixit.com/gfi.htm
http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/question117.htm

Answer 2

Sounds like u have a short or are trying to pull to much power. Remember, the purpose of a ground fault is to keep u and your houses circuitry safe. If the power pull is to much it will trip so as to not cause a fire. Also if there is a short or water etc... I would suggest you take a look at the thing u r trying to run off that plug for any damage or how much power it is trying to pull. Also if there are other electronics and what not on the same line also pulling power then it can very easily trip since the min amount of power the thing needs is not available due to other stuff that's plugged in already using it.. For example.. If my little space heater is running and I try to use the toaster it sometimes blows because the two things together require more power then that line is safely rated for, thus the GF will trip.... Hope this helps and don't get zapped!!

Answer 3

A GFI shouldn't holiday while cord is in simple terms too small, by way of fact it journeys from sensing a distinction in means to floor. Your extension cord is likely the reason. probably and uncovered knick. superb way is plug in save vac at GFI without cords, this could tell if its the vac. you should save GFI in places water may be a element, like a shed the place you stretch out cords for the period of backyard. FYI: Having a GFI circuit powering a easy, will additionally reason journeys. additionally, continuously unplug cords in the previous you roll them up, or that revealed nick you have will harm ya. playstation . KCKC, he could have the two a 15 or 20 amp GFI, if that facilitates you supply a extra perfect answer. be conscious: staggering answer MVB, you stated a similar element i did, yet with great college words. Ive been union electrician for 21 years, and my answer became on no account risky. i think i in my view presented different good advice too. Questioner in no way appeared to attempt plugging in save vac directly to GFI, so wager we will in no way understand. properly, maybe u ought to understand.

Answer 4

You may have a breaker that isn't strong enough to support what you have on the line that goes to it. If you have anything with a motor it needs to be a higher voltage breaker or you have to many things on that line. Best to call an electrician. :)

Answer 5

What do you have plugged in? Sometimes they also are hooked up to another plug in the house.

Answer 6

you may have a shout! what is pulg in to it? you said a braker do you mean a outlet