GFCI Breaker TroubleshootingUpdated 9 hours ago

What is a GFCI Breaker?

A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is a safety device designed to protect people from electrical shock. It monitors the electrical current flowing through a circuit and quickly shuts off power (trips) when it detects an imbalance between the hot and neutral wires - which could indicate electricity is flowing through an unintended path, such as through water or a person.

GFCI breakers are commonly required by code in areas where water and electricity may come into contact (bathrooms, kitchens, garages, outdoors). They typically trip when detecting a ground fault current as small as 5-6 milliamps (Class A) or 20 milliamps (Class B, designed for EV charging).

Why GFCI Breakers Trip with Smart Splitters

Based on our product documentation, GFCI breakers can trip when used with Smart Splitters due to cumulative leakage current. Here's what happens:

1. Multiple Device Leakage: Every electrical device has some small amount of normal leakage current
2. Cumulative Effect: When you have three devices connected (Smart Splitter + 2 EVSEs), the combined leakage current from all three can exceed the GFCI's threshold
3. Sensitivity: Even Class B GFCI breakers (designed for EV charging with a 20mA limit) can be triggered by the cumulative leakage

Important Note: Certain EV chargers, particularly the JuiceBox (no longer sold in North America), are known to be especially sensitive and may throw GFCI faults when connected through a Smart Splitter. This is 

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Verify GFCI Type

• Check if you have a Class A (5-6mA) or Class B (20mA) GFCI breaker
• Class B is recommended for EV charging applications

2. Test Individual Components

• Disconnect the Smart Splitter and test each EVSE directly on the outlet
• If either EVSE trips the GFCI alone, that device may have excessive leakage
• Test the Smart Splitter with only one device connected

3. Check for Known Sensitive Chargers

• JuiceBox chargers are particularly prone to GFCI issues with splitters
• Consider using a different EVSE model if you have a JuiceBox. JuiceBox no longer supports it's devices in North America

Solutions and Recommendations

Option 1: Replace GFCI with Standard Breaker

• Important: Only if local code permits and the circuit doesn't require GFCI protection
• Consult with a licensed electrician to ensure code compliance
• This is often the most effective solution for dedicated EV charging circuits

Option 2: Upgrade to Class B GFCI

• If you have a Class A GFCI, upgrade to a Class B (20mA) breaker
• Designed specifically for EV charging applications
• May still experience issues due to cumulative leakage

Option 3: Install Dedicated Circuit

• Consider installing a non-GFCI circuit specifically for EV charging
• Ensures reliable charging without GFCI compatibility issues
• Must comply with local electrical codes

Option 4: Use Different Equipment

• Some EVSE models have lower leakage current
• Avoid known problematic combinations (e.g., JuiceBox with Smart Splitter)

Key Points to Remember

• GFCI outlets are not designed to be split - this is a fundamental limitation
• The Smart Splitter itself is safe and UL-certified, but the combination of devices can trigger sensitive GFCI protection
• This is not a defect in the Smart Splitter but rather an incompatibility between GFCI protection and multiple connected devices

When to Escalate

Contact NeoCharge support if:

• The issue persists after trying these solutions
• You need specific EVSE recommendations
• You experience other electrical issues beyond GFCI tripping

Always recommend customers consult with a licensed electrician for any electrical modifications or if they're unsure about their specific setup.