A GFCI cuts power in a fraction of a second when it senses current leaking where it shouldn’t. Repeated tripping is telling you something. Usual causes: moisture, a faulty device, a real ground fault, or a worn GFCI.
Moisture (number one)
GFCIs live in damp spots; rain/humidity/steam cause the small leak they catch. Let it dry, reset, and add a weatherproof cover outdoors.
A faulty device
Unplug everything on that outlet, reset, and add devices back one at a time; if one trips it, that’s the culprit.
A real ground fault
Damaged cable, loose connection, or a fault at a downstream outlet (one GFCI protects several). Related: why your outlet is not working. Finding it safely is a pro job.
A worn-out GFCI
GFCIs last ~10-15 years; an old one can nuisance-trip or refuse to reset.
Different from a breaker tripping
GFCI = shock protection (leakage); breaker = overloads/shorts. If it’s at the panel, see why your breaker keeps tripping.
When to call R&T Yoder
Reset once. Keeps tripping after drying/unplugging, won’t reset, or any scorching/hot smell β call. Book electrical repair. (614) 206-5401.
FAQ
- Why does it keep tripping? Moisture, a faulty device, a ground fault, or a worn GFCI.
- Why won’t it reset? Still senses a fault, no power, or the device failed.
- Trips when it rains? Moisture; dry it, reset, add a weatherproof cover.
- How long do GFCIs last? ~10-15 years.
- Is it dangerous? The tripping protects you; the cause is the concern; inspect if drying/unplugging doesn’t solve it.