Hi there,
I just installed a ceiling fan in my bathroom that is protected by a GFCI receptacle. The hot wire comes in to the switchbox and goes directly to the GFCI line. From the GFCI load I have a pigtail that goes to a switch which then in turns goes to the fan. The GFCI is working properly according to my tester. However when I flip the switch to turn the fan on the GFCI trips. What gives? I can describe in greater detail the path of the wiring if that may be the problem. Thanks.
Replies
First question......
Does the White Neutral to-the-Fan also originate on the LOAD side of the GFCI ?
I think Abnorm has it your line both bl and wt should go to line in on the GFCI the fan and any other devices should be load side both wt and bl, then bl in to switch, bl out switch to fan. If you have it this way check the neutrals at the fan and the GFCI, some how it thinks your are loosing the neutral when you switch on the fan and is going to ground. If all looks like it is correct you could have a bad GFCI right out of the box I have had it happen.Double check all connections I have had it where you have torqued on the screws of the back stab ins go put the thing in the box and one come loose.WallyoNOT an electrician I just play one on TV.
Hi there,
The answer is no it does not originate from the GFCI. This very thought came to me earlier today. Do you think this is the cause of my problem? Thanks.
If the WT to the fan is not wired to the load side of the GFCI that is the problem. The GF is doing exactly what it should it is sensing no return path and turning off the juice.Wallyo
Yes........that is your problem......the GFCI compares the LOAD Black and White for imbalance.....
I just fixed the problem. Thanks all for your help.