new GFI outlet with inverter

[teejayevans]

I had a GFI outlet break, so I tried installing a new one.
In 2003, GFI specs change that they would not reset unless
they had power and was wired correctly. So they are no longer
mechinically locked, I think they use electromagnet.
The thing is, the indicator light shows wiring is correct, I double
check I have power on the line side, but it won't engage when I
attempt to reset. Anybody run into this problem, either way I would
have to reset everytime the GFI loses power, a PITA.
I'm going to try to find an old GFI outlet but think that's a long shot.
I'm using xantrex inverter if it matters.
Tom

[stevemac00]

Chk xantrx website. I recall they had technote of compatible outlets.

[bjung]

Tom,
Another option would be, to install a GFI breaker at the panel, and use regular outlets.
As far as your GFI outlet is concerned, it should work, provided that "line" and "load" are wired correctly. If it doesn't, either you have a bad "line" wire, a bad GFI receptacle (actually quite commmon), or a short in the "load" wire (assuming other receps pigtail from that GFI). Or your inverter is cooked...
I would:1)check line voltage at inverter, then voltage at wires at GFI
2)wire nut line and load wires at GFI recep box(provided other receps pigtail from there), engage breaker. If breaker trips, you have a load short.
3)If all of the above is ok, GFI recep is faulty(or, as Steve mentioned not compatible).
Good luck.
Bernd
PSC 31 #83

[teejayevans]

Originally Posted by bjung

Tom,
Another option would be, to install a GFI breaker at the panel, and use regular outlets.
As far as your GFI outlet is concerned, it should work, provided that "line" and "load" are wired correctly. If it doesn't, either you have a bad "line" wire, a bad GFI receptacle (actually quite commmon), or a short in the "load" wire (assuming other receps pigtail from that GFI). Or your inverter is cooked...
I would:1)check line voltage at inverter, then voltage at wires at GFI
2)wire nut line and load wires at GFI recep box(provided other receps pigtail from there), engage breaker. If breaker trips, you have a load short.
3)If all of the above is ok, GFI recep is faulty(or, as Steve mentioned not compatible).
Good luck.
Bernd
PSC 31 #83

#1 did that to make sure I had line and load properly identified
#2 didn't do this but since I haven't touch anything and the load outlet was working, I assume its ok, will double check next time.
#3 I'm going to try a pre-2003 GFCI that I pulled from a house, replacing it with one I tried on the boat, which now works fine. So I assume its a compatibility problem. I went to xantrex web site, there was a document on the subject of using GFCI outlets with inverters, but link is dead now.
thanks, Tom