GFCI breakers and length of conductors issue

[joey2004]

We recently designed a project that included street and ornamental tree lighting. The design has GCFI branch circuit protection with breakers. Some of the branch circuits extend 700-1000 feet from the distribution point. We are now experiencing nuisance tripping and feel the long length of conductors could be the culprit, as all other obvious factors have been explored.

Has any one else had experience with this same problem for conductor length and GFCI breaker tripping?

 

[Dennis Alwon]

I have not experienced issues with this but I understand that it is an issue. Distance can be a factor. Can you install the gfci receptacles at the other end and just use a standard breaker at the beginning of the circuit

 

[Dennis Alwon]

This from EC&M-- this is the link

Length of circuit. A GFCI is subjected to tests that simulate long branch circuits. While there are no specific rules concerning the length of the circuit protected or the number of receptacles on the protected circuit, remember that the GFCI will add up all the harmless leakage currents and capacitive leakages. Under extreme circumstances, this could "preload" the GFCI and make it appear overly sensitive or, worst case, result in nuisance tripping. Therefore, you should minimize the length of circuits to the degree possible.

 

[joey2004]

Thanks for the quick response!

Thanks for the quick response!

Sounds like receptacles will b our solution.