having trouble with the gfci tripping

handy man88

As I can recall, the instructions for the GFCI said that by using the backstab method, you go one breaker and one wire size down. So, for a 20 amp GFCI, you go 15 amp breaker with 14 gauge wiring if you backstab it.

wirenut1110

Just to clear something up, when I say "back stabbed" I'm talking about receptacles and switches where you just "stab" the wire in the back and it has a spring clip that holds the wire in place. I don't want to confuse this with back wired. Most gfi's are "back-wired" as is commercial grade receptacles and switches. Also, if I stand corrected, what I think you're talking about is a gfi being rated 20 amps and 20 amps for feed through and 15 if you're feeding others off of it.

BigJimmy

10-4.

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CowboyAndy

A GFI receptacle does not have backstab connections, it is backwired. They are 2 totally different things. A backwire uses a pressure plate that is tightened using the screws on the side. There are no restrictions for it saying you can only use 14awg wire and a 15 amp breaker.

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chris75

I have never seen a GFCI that could actually be back stabbed... like others have stated, only pressure plates, and they are NOT the same thing.

Berniehb7448

Could you explain this, please? I'm not familiar with the terms "backstab & screwdown". THANX!

CowboyAndy

Backstab - this is where there are holes on the back of the outlet, and you simply push the wire in and there is a spring loaded contract that holds it in place. VERY highly recommended that you do NOT use this method, as it has been linked to failure. Also, this method is only allowed with 14AWG wire.

Backwire - This also has holes in the back, but when the wire goes in it gets sandwiched between 2 plates, and when the screw on the side is tighened, it squeezes the wire inbetween the 2 plates.

Screw - Pretty self explainatory...the screws on the side of the outlet. Wrap the wire around the screw the same direction the screw is going to turn.

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Berniehb7448

Thank You!