Leak Detectors

[1793]

I have received a few calls over the past few months with customers complaining about the refrigerator in the garage tripping the GFI.

I recall there has been some discussion here about a tool that will measure the leaking current. I would like to know what brand and model would allow me to test to show the customer.

Thanks in advance

 

[Brian Oshman]

I have seen this before on fridges tripping GFI's. Check underneath for connectors getting wet from condensation. I have found molex style connectors getting dripped on and being routed close to the metal frame to be a problem. Fridges tend to sweat more in a garage as it is not air conditioned and will be warm or hotter and humid inside the garage than in the living space.

Dry out the connectors and waterproof them in some manner. Tape, dum dum, plastic, fabricated drip shield, anything to keep the connector dry.

Also, check if the floor is getting wet or also place wood shims under the legs if they do not have plastic feet or wheels.

 

[electricalperson]

i have a slater gfci tester from the 80s that can measure leakage current. you can find them on ebay if your lucky

 

[iwire]

I have received a few calls over the past few months with customers complaining about the refrigerator in the garage tripping the GFI.

I recall there has been some discussion here about a tool that will measure the leaking current. I would like to know what brand and model would allow me to test to show the customer.

Thanks in advance

I think your looking at more then $2,000 for an entry level appliance tester.

Some of the guys have mentioned using a megga meter.

 

[Ken9876]

Maybe there is an outlet on the outside of the home that is getting wet, or corroded.

 

[JohnJ0906]

I have received a few calls over the past few months with customers complaining about the refrigerator in the garage tripping the GFI.

I recall there has been some discussion here about a tool that will measure the leaking current. I would like to know what brand and model would allow me to test to show the customer.

Thanks in advance

http://www.professionalequipment.com/ac-leakage-current-clamp-meter-2726380-fluke-360/clamp-meters/

I have an Ideal model myself. edit to add: Ideal #61-452

You clamp it around the white and black, but not the EGC. It will measure the imbalance in the circuit.
However, the cause of the leakage could be intermittent, such as defrost elements, and so wouldn't show itself when you are testing.

 

[JohnJ0906]

.

Some of the guys have mentioned using a megga meter.

I have heard that the defrost elements are a common cause of GFCI trips (insulation breakdown), and they can be tested with a megohmmeter. I have never personally tried it, because I have never worked on an appliance, and don't want to mess up a customer's.