Inductive Motor Loads Can Trip GFCI Outlets

';	I installed a GFCI outlet in my attic and ran the load side wires to a new, through the wall, Broan 6″ round exhaust fan via a wall switch… © By: Dave Rongey

Electrical Wiring Video

Home Electrical Wiring Videos about this Topic and More

Check out my YouTube Channel, and Subscribe!

Learn more with my Home Electrical Video Course:

Basic Home Electrical Wiring by Example

GFCI Outlets and Nuisance Trips With Inductive Loads
Background: Bill, a Homeowner from Londonderry, NH
[ad#block]Question: I installed a GFCI outlet in my attic and ran the load side wires to a new, through the wall, Broan 6″ round exhaust fan via a wall switch. The GFCI seems to trip occasionally when the fan is turned off.
Not sure what to look for?

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Bill.
GFCI Outlets are known for causing nuisance tripping for inductive loads such as:
Motors, Refrigerators, Freezers, Whole House Vacuum Systems and other devices that have an inductive load.
GFCI Protection is not required for specific dedicated circuits for such devices, however the outlets for these devices should be Single and not Duplex which would prevent using the second outlet.
NOTE: This is NOT true for GFCI protected equipment such as Jacuzzi Tubs, Spas, Hot Tubs and other such devices which are used in the presence of water which are usually protected by GFCI Circuit Breakers

I have provided the following links that lead to fully detailed information on this website that will assist you with your electrical question:

Bath Exhaust Fan

GFCI Outlet Wiring

Electrical Wire for the Home

gfi

Wiring Diagram GFI
The features and benefits of GFCI outlets and receptacles will give you a clear understanding of the importance why these safety devices are required by code to help protect you and your family against accidental electrical shock hazards.

wire

Electrical Wire for the Home
Complete listing of electrical wire types and parts used for home projects with electrical code information serves as selection guidelines.

exhaust fan

Installing Your Bath Exhaust Fan
Answers to all of your questions about installing a bath exhaust fan and your bathroom exhaust fan replacement project.

The following may also be helpful for you:

A Complete Guide to Home Electrical Wiring

Be sure to get your copy of my BIG Book:
Perfect for Homeowners, Students and Electricians
Includes:
Home Electrical Wiring - Room by Room
120 Volt Circuits
240 Volt Circuits
Multi-Wired Circuits
Wiring Methods for Installing Home Electrical Circuit Wiring
Electrical Codes for Home Electrical Wiring
....and much more.

Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.

More articles about Exhaust Fan and Home Electrical Wiring:
« Previous	Next »
Electrical Circuit for a Power Exhaust Unit	Adding Additional GFI Outlets

»How To Wire It RIGHT! «
Wire it with Confidence!
Fully Illustrated
Instant Download

Now You Can
Wire it like a Pro!

Residential Electrical Wiring

Learn Electrical Wiring
Instructional Electrical Wiring Videos

Home Electrical Wiring and Electrical Repairs

Please Note:
Unless otherwise posted, please refer to the following Guidelines when working on Electrical Projects:

Skill Level:
Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Certified Electrician or Licensed Electrical Contractor.

Electrical Tools Required:
Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter.

Estimated Time:
Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, work with electrical wiring, and the available access to the project area.

Precaution:
Identify the project circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.

Important:
Modifying existing electrical circuits or installing additional electrical wiring should be done according to local and National Electrical Codes, with a permit and be inspected.