why does this trip a GFCI outlet?

[Papa John]

It works on regular outlets without tripping breaker but always trips a GFCI.
Should I open it up n check wiring.. could it just be a fuse? The thing is brand new. I bought it from the Bridgeport booth in clearwater.

 

[Desk Jockey]

We have some of them. Never had that problem. I'd call them.

 

[dgardner]

It definitely shouldn't trip the GFCI. I would stop using it and get it replaced!

 

[Old Coastie]

Put an ohm meter between ground and each prong (hot and neutral) with switch on and switch off. If you get continuity, then there is a problem. Nothing should go to ground, but that is why the GFCI is tripping. It will trip for even a momentary ground fault.

 

[hydracat]

Gfi's get weak over time, and have different amp ratings.

 

[GeneMiller]

Not enough draw to pop a gfci. If it's trips them all then it's a bad fan. Something has to be leaking over to ground and popping it. They are very sensitive for a reason.

Gene

 

[dgardner]

Put an ohm meter between ground and each prong (hot and neutral) with switch on and switch off. If you get continuity, then there is a problem. Nothing should go to ground, but that is why the GFCI is tripping. It will trip for even a momentary ground fault.

Agreed, that is the proper way to check for a hard fault, however the problem could be a very small leakage only when 120V is present (and the very low voltage applied by the meter might not show the leakage). Or, as you mentioned, it could be intermittent and the meter might not catch it at that moment. Bottom line is it's a safety issue. Someone could actually be killed. If we have to explain how to use a meter, then that person should not be troubleshooting this problem! IMO...