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Testing GFCI'S
To test a GFCI on your yacht fi nd a 120 volt night light or
small lamp to plug into the GFCI outlet. Try it in another
circuit fi rst to make sure it lights.
After the lamp is plugged into the GFCI outlet the lamp
should light. Now press the "test" button at the GFCI
receptacle center. The GFCI's "reset" button should pop
out and the lamp should go out. This means the GFCI
itself is functioning properly. Press the "reset" button to
restore power to the outlet.
You can use the lamp to check receptacles down stream
from the GFCI. All receptacles should light the lamp and
should go out when the "test" button is pressed.
Also, GFCI down stream recep-
tacles can be tested with a plug-in
type GFCI tester. This tester con-
tains a GFCI test buton which ac-
complishes the same thing as the
GFCI receptacle built-in test but-
ton. This tester can be purchased at
electrical supply houses or marine
retailers.
POSSIBLE PROBLEMS/SOLUTIONS (GFCI'S)
1. If the "reset" button does not pop out,
the GFCI is probably defective and should
be replaced.
2. If the "reset" button pops out one
time but tends to stick the next the GFCI
should be replaced.
3. The GFCI "reset" button pops out when something
is turned on. This may indicate an internal wiring prob-
lem with the GFCI or there may be a ground-fault down
stream.
4. The GFCI "reset" button is in the pressed position and
nothing works. Check the appropriate breaker at the main
ship's AC control panel to make sure it has not "tripped"
or as been deactivated.
Ignition Protected Devices
Many electrical devices in everyday use tend to "arc"
or spark when being used. These include motors, fans,
switches, relays, etc.
Boats in general use many of these same devices but they
are protected from any sparking that may cause the device
to ignite with any vapors that are typically found in the
engine room and/or fuel tank compartments.
Obviously, gasoline powered vessels contain a much higher risk
of explosion over diesel powered vessels but diesel under the right
circumstances can ignite and burn. Still when replacing any
electrical device especially in the bilge or engine room make
sure it is ignition protected. This means it has been tested
and normally the device is stamped with a marking making
it safe to use. Most automotive type devices are not ignition
protected especially engine starters and alternators.
55
Systems
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