[mike932]

Recently, I pressed the "test" button on the GFCI outlet in my bathroom. There was a loud popping noise, and smoke came out of the outlet. Now the outlets in 2 bathrooms are powerless. What happened and how do I fix it? Thanks.

 

[frenchelectrican]

Either something shorting it out or have water inside the GFCI device the only way you can slove is replace it.

Get the new one they run about 12 to 15 Euros so they are not that expensive however before you take the GFCI out of the wall just make a note how it connected and make sure you have breaker is off on that circuit as far for connection format make sure you make a note which way is line et load they are very picky on that.

If you get it reversed they will not function at all.

Merci.
Marc

 

[mike932]

Je vous remercie beaucoup monsieur. I will replace the GFCI. Do I need to have an electrician inspect the wiring in my walls for damage?

 

[frenchelectrican]

Not really if there is no other damage unless you add a picture hanger or the outdoor receptale { I know older home done that way } is pretty much toasted or have something plug in and cause a hevey ground fault which the GFCI can not able trip it out.

That why many GFCI or RCD devices they are instructed very clear to test it monthly to make sure they are working properly.

Check all the recepales which they are affected on this circuit to see what the cuprit and make sure unplug anything to rule it out once the RCD { GFCI } reset and plug in one a time to see which one cause the RCD to trip out.

Merci,
Marc

Note if you have older home if you have outdoor receptale tied to the bathroom after hevey rain storm if the outdoor receptale cover is shot { gasket is dried up a bit } it can fill a bit of water in there and cause them to trip as well so just be aware if you have that set up and by modern code they are no longer legit so the bathroom have to be own circuit ditto with kitchen as well.

 

[kbsparky]

Most electronic items run on smoke -- the electricity is only there to keep the smoke from getting out. :huh:

Once the smoke gets out, the unit is no good. :laughing: