I just replaced a standard circuit breaker with an new GFI Circuit Breaker (Eaton Type CH). If there is nothing plugged into any of the outlets in the circuit (other than the circuit tester)the breaker stays on and the circuit is live. If I hit the test button on the circuit tester the GFI pops as normal. If I plug an appliance into any of the outlets, the breaker pops. It does not seem to matter which outlet I plug the appliance into or whether it is a two prong appliance (a CO Detector) or a three prong appliance. I cannot seem to see any place where any of the white wires in the 6 outlets on the circuit are shorting to ground or any problem with the bare ground wires. I had no problems when the circuit was protected by a conventional circuit breaker.

Double check you have the line and loads connected to the right sides.
There marked on the back of the GFI.
When you first opened the box there was a piece of yellow tape over one side of the outlet that was the load side.
Line is incoming power, load is anything protected down line from the outlet.
If any of your outlets are back stabed, change it to under the screws.
All it takes is one bad connection to trip a GFI.

My question would be "Why did you install the GFCI breaker in the first place"? As Joe pointed out, all it takes is one flaw to constantly trip the sensitive GFCI. Also, many motors for fans will cause the GFCI to trip. Unless you are installing outlets in a damp area, the GFCI is not required.

If you just need one or two outlets in the circuit to be GFCI protected, you may be able to install an individual GFCI outlet instead of the GFCI breaker.

And, of course, there is the possibility that your brand-new GFCI breaker if faulty and is too sensitive.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Jaybee,

The preceding posts should cover your problems. Good advice as usual. I too wonder why you replaced a regular breaker with a GFCI type. Heck the price of that critter alone is staggering.

I detest GFI breakers. put the GFI where the load is, or a "switch front" GFI round the corner from a jet tub. if there is a failure, no looking, it's right where you stand. too many ways to get shootin' mad if you sling a couple of rolls of Romex away from the control element and start getting trips.

wore out its welcome for me in the 70s. done with it. GFIs are 7 bucks and up.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: swschrad,