Regal 30 EXPRESS, Owner'S Manual

Page: 76 / 234

19
Systems
GFCI Outlet
Sometimes current in a circuit escapes its normal route
and finds a “ground fault”. If that vehicle ends up to be
your body and the current passes through your heart the
results could be deadly.
A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) senses this
ground current before a fatal dose can be conducted and
in a fraction of a second cuts the current.
The GFCI device marine speaking is not ignition
protected which means the device can not be installed in
the engine room or the fuel tank area of a gasoline
powered boat because of a lack of ignition protection.
Your vessel has several 120 volt receptacles. A GFCI
style outlet is found as the first receptacle in the circuit.
By this placement all 120 volt outlets downline are
protected.
You can identify the GFCI primary receptacle by the test
and reset breaker in the center of the device. Check for
GFCI protection monthly. If a problem develops with
the GFCI circuitry call a marine electrician to access the
situation.
GFCI outlets are especially useful when electrical
equipment is used such as drills, curling irons and hair
dryers. Never use any electrical devices when puddling
water is present to prevent possible shock hazard.
TEST
MONTHLY
TYPICAL GFCI RECEPTACLE
Testing GFCI’S
To test a GFCI on your yacht find a
120 volt night light or small lamp
to plug into the GFCI outlet. Try
the device in another circuit first to
make sure the device lights.
After the lamp is plugged into the
GFCI outlet the lamp should light.
Now press the “test” button at the
CFCI receptacle center. The GFCI “reset” button should
pop out and the lamp or night light should go out. This
means the GFCI device is functioning properly. You can
use the lamp or night light to check each of the outlets
downstream from the GFCI receptacle. The lamp should
go out each time it is moved to a different outlet on the
same circuit as the GFCI “test button” is pressed.
Also, GFCI down stream receptacles can be tested with a
plug-in type GFCI tester. This tester contains its own
GFCI test button which accomplishes the same end as
the GFCI receptacle “test” circuit. These testers can be
purchased at “box” stores, electronic outlets or marine
supply stores.