Hot Tub Forum

Original => Hot Tub Forum => Topic started by: Dekken Tubb on July 25, 2007, 09:46:45 am

Title: GFCI breaker vs. GFCI Disconnect
Post by: Dekken Tubb on July 25, 2007, 09:46:45 am
I've been researching this topic on the Internet and have read that the GFCI breakers wear out over time and start "false tripping".  I've seen the Balboa GFCI Disconnects on various sites and these look like a viable alternative to a GFCI breaker panel.  I'm looking for the one that will support 60 amps.

1.  Does anyone own or has anyone had experience with these disconnects, good or bad?

2.  Where are the knockouts located?  Is there a knockout on the back of the box?  I am replacing an existing box and want to minimize installation hassle.

Any advice would be appreciated...thanks.   :)  

Title: Re: GFCI breaker vs. GFCI Disconnect
Post by: Gary on July 25, 2007, 10:44:55 am
If everyone read the instructions and did what the breaker states to do you would be replacing your breaker every 18 months or so.

Title: Re: GFCI breaker vs. GFCI Disconnect
Post by: Brewman on July 25, 2007, 01:03:33 pm
Not familiar with GFI disconnects.  I'd guess that like most electrical boxes, there are knockouts top, bottom, sides and back.  
 So far my 48+ month old GFI breaker hasn't been prone to false tripping- it gets tested every time I change water, which is every 90 days or so.  
I suppose it's possible that they can wear out- anything mechanical can and eventually will, but I've not heard it as widesread problem.  
 Sounds like a bit of marketing hype to me.  

Title: Re: GFCI breaker vs. GFCI Disconnect
Post by: tony on July 25, 2007, 01:25:10 pm
Same here.  I have a GFI breaker in my panel and a pull type disconnect at the spa.  I test it at every water change.  Five years and no problem.
Title: Re: GFCI breaker vs. GFCI Disconnect
Post by: Cola on July 28, 2007, 05:33:37 am
The balboa unit is just a repackaged Square D GFCI with enclosure as far as I can tell.  Siemens, Square D, FPE, etc. They are all good.
Steve
Title: Re: GFCI breaker vs. GFCI Disconnect
Post by: Dekken Tubb on July 28, 2007, 10:29:57 am
Thanks for all the help...We got a Siemens unit...another step closer to Spatopia.   ;D