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The electronics monitor the normal current of power flowing to the hot (black) wire through the
load (eg. a light bulb or appliance) and coming back on the neutral (white) wire. If a small amount of
current comes back on the safety ground wire, the electronics will trip the breaker or outlet, stopping
the flow of electricity. The amount of current it takes to trip the device from a ground fault varies
slightly from the different outlet or breaker manufacturer (approximately 4 to 6 milliamps or less).
NOTE:
One milliamp is 1/1000 of one Amp.
Electrical shocks resulting from ground faults can be felt, but such a shock is considerably less
than one without ground fault protection. People with medical conditions that make them susceptible
to shock can still be seriously injured. A GFCI outlet or breaker will not protect against shock from a
normal current flow.
For example:
a shock from touching both metal prongs of an electrical cord or
appliance while plugging it in.
WARNING:
If a breaker or outlet continually trips, Do Not continue to reset breaker or outlet until the
problem has been identified and corrected.
NOTE:
The ground fault outlet or breaker should be tested once a month to ensure it is operating.
Use the TEST button on the outlet or breaker. It should trip with an audible “click.” The
breaker or outlet will not trip if AC power is not present at the device. If power is present
and the device will not trip, replace it before using that circuit.
fUSeS & cIrcUIt BreakerS - 12 volt Dc
Circuit protection devices are installed to protect circuit wiring in case an over-current condition occurs. An over-
current condition usually falls into one of two categories: a short circuit or overload. A short circuit is when a break
or fault in the circuit allows electricity to flow directly to ground. Circuit overload is when circuit amperage or the
electrical load exceeds designed operating parameters.
Several factors are considered when designing a circuit to operate an electrical load. The amperage required to operate
the electrical load will determine wire size and wire insulation type. The application of the electrical load can determine
whether a fuse or circuit breaker is selected.
Circuit protection devices come in a variety of shapes and ratings. Most common are the blade style plug in
fuse and auto reset circuit breakers. These types of circuit protection devices are readily available from auto
supply stores. Circuit protection devices in a 12 Volt DC system are actually rated at 32 Volts DC due to voltage
variances in a 12 Volt DC system. Replacement devices must use the same amperage rating and be of the same
type as the original for proper circuit protection and electrical safety. Generally a fault exists in the circuit when
an over-current condition has caused a fuse to blow or circuit breaker to trip. Until the condition that caused the
fault is corrected, replacing the fuse may be a temporary fix. Continually replacing the fuse or circumventing the
protection device can jeopardize safety and circuit integrity.
WARNING:
Replacement fuses or circuit breakers must be of the same type and rating as the original equipment.
Installing protection devices other than the original type and rating will create a safety hazard that
will potentially result in circuit and/or component damage and fire.
GFCI Breaker
RM03A0003
060072
