GFCI Extenstion Cords

versivix · 08-29-2005, 11:56 AM

I would like to buy some GFCI extension outlets to plug into my existing outlets. I run my tank on an APC battery backup. Should I just plug the entire battery backup into the GFCI outlets?

Loverotties · 08-29-2005, 12:50 PM

Should be ok!It shouldn't have a isolated ground on that.

Lutrah · 08-29-2005, 09:02 PM

Plugging your APC into a GFCI is a good idea to protect the APC in event of some problem, but this will not effect the output of the UPS since it will just switch to battery mode when the GFCI trips. Most UPS' have built in circuit breakers in the event of short circuit or battery bank overload, but I don't think they are GFCI though... I don't know. You might want to contact the manufacturer and ask them. If not, it shouldn't be too difficult to wire one for the clean side.

Phishnoob · 08-29-2005, 09:29 PM

If you look at a GFCI circuit in your panel it has an extra wire that senses the current drain and will trip off the breaker when it gets excessive. This wire has a certain resistivity per inch so if you ever get an electrician that makes it "tidy" it will screw it up.

I personally would not put an add on GFCI bandaid on a circuit as you can pop in a new breaker in the panel for 40 bucks or less, or find some electrician working on a new place to swing by and do it for the same amount and a twelve pack if you are not handy.