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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Sep 2009
    Location
    Twin Cities, Minnesota
    Posts
    150

    Default Testing Ground Fault Breakers

    I use an Ideal SureTest ArcTester. I plugged it into a circuit lacking a ground but protected by a ground fault breaker and pressed the GFCI button, but the circuit breaker didn't trip. It did respond to the test button on the breaker. Do the Ideal SureTesters not trip ground fault breakers? I was able to trip other GFCI outlets in the house with the tester.

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    -Jon
    Errickson Home Inspections, LLC
    http://www.erricksonhomeinspections.com

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Mar 2007
    Location
    Philadelphia PA
    Posts
    3,177

    Default Re: Testing Ground Fault Breakers

    The Ideal needs an equipment ground to test GFCI devices.
    Since the breaker tripped with its own test button, it's ok.

    "There is no exception to the rule that every rule has an exception." -James Thurber, writer and cartoonist (1894-1961)
    www.ArnoldHomeInspections.com

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Oct 2011
    Location
    Eastern Shore of MD, NEC 2008
    Posts
    94

    Default Re: Testing Ground Fault Breakers

    I believe the only UL approved method of testing GFCI devices is the test button.


  4. #4
    Join Date
    Aug 2008
    Location
    Maryland
    Posts
    1,970

    Default Re: Testing Ground Fault Breakers

    Both Derek and John are correct about the testing methods and the need for an EGC in order for the tester to trip the GFI.

    All answers based on unamended National Electrical codes.

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Mar 2007
    Location
    Lake Barrington, IL
    Posts
    1,367

    Default Re: Testing Ground Fault Breakers

    Quote Originally Posted by Derek Guridi View Post
    I believe the only UL approved method of testing GFCI devices is the test button.
    More specifically - GFCI and AFCI device manufacturer's will only recognize the test buttons on the device. In other words, any AFCI/GFCI tester you carry is useless for testing applications.

    Eric Barker, ACI
    Lake Barrington, IL

  6. #6
    Join Date
    Feb 2009
    Location
    Southern Vancouver Island
    Posts
    4,607

    Default Re: Testing Ground Fault Breakers

    I've said this before but I like saying it.
    The test button doesn't prove the circuit was wired correctly. For example, the circuit or the receptacle might still be live with the breaker tripped.

    John Kogel, RHI, BC HI Lic #47455
    www.allsafehome.ca

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