Troublesome GFI

[Spion Kop]

We’ve recently taken possession of a 1991 Carver 3608. She is our third Carver and we just love her.
The craft has been well maintained but we are experiencing trouble with a GFI outlet which is situated in the entertainment cabinet in the aft cabin. After operating the engines the GFI trips and, as it is “hidden” in a cupboard for some reason, l do sometimes forget to check it which is a problem as it is on the same circuit as the battery charger. Has anyone else experienced this problem and any thoughts on why this GFI is located where it is. Thanks

[bud37]

Welcome to the forum.....Is the GFCI an older one....they do get tired over time on a boat.

[tomschauer]

It most likely located where it is as the first receptacle in the circuit and protects other receptacles. There is a chance it protects an aft deck receptacle that may get wet and trip the gfci.

[Viper]

Welcome aboard. I agree with all the above. Try replacing the outlet, they don't last forever in a marine environment and are prone to nuisance tripping after a while. That would be my first step if the unit is 20 years old anyway. If the new one trips too, start checking all the outlets on that circuit. How old is your charger? It could also be causing an issue if it's on the same circuit. It's best to have the charger be on it's own separate circuit/breaker.

[buster53]

I’m really surprised the charger isn’t on its own circuit with nothing else.

[Tireless]

All the points brought up above are good ones to follow up on. There is however, one more thing. You need to have a look at what appliances may be plugged into the GFCI. For example, GFCI receptacles do NOT like things with motors, like a Microwave. If your microwave is plugged into a receptacle on the line this could be the culprit as will, especially if the GFCI is an older one.

I am very surprised to hear that your battery chargers or on a GFCI line as well. Normally they fault to their own breakers.

For what its worth.

Greg