Forum Discussion

Haines1959's avatar
Haines1959
Explorer
Mar 16, 2020

GFI tripping when plugging in to charge batteries

Help! Took delivery of a Grand Design 28g 2019 new toy hauler last month. Whenever I plug in to GFI outlet when reducing from 30 amp to 15 amp it trips the GFI plug. I used this same plug to charge the batteries in our last 5th wheel for 4 years with no issues. I have tried other GFI outlets and the same thing happens but yet others can plug in with no problem. Took it back to dealer and they said it must me plugged into 30 amp outlet per Grand Design instructions. I asked if they called the manufacturer for this info and they said yes. But when I called the manufacturer they seemed perplexed and I was told they would have to look into it. I have been an RVer for 18 years and never had this issue. I did have the dealer install 2 6 volt batteries before I took delivery as I was told they are so much better. I like to plug in before a trip to start my frig and make sure batteries are topped off but unable to do so. Thanks for your help. Steve
Toy Haulers
  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    Mar 17, 2020
    Start by turning ALL breakers in the RV off. Plug in and see if it still trips. Then turn on the main and one branch circuit at a time and see if the issue can be isolated.

    Has it been raining? Could be water in the exterior outlet. Next would possibly be the water heater or fridge. Both these have heating elements that can leak to ground. Long shot would be a defective converter or a crossed connection. Hopefully the breaker with lead you to the branch circuit with trouble.

    Ultimately the circuits will need to be separated to isolate the issue.
  • Flute_Man's avatar
    Flute_Man
    Explorer
    Mar 17, 2020
    I agree that it needs to be fixed. I would trust a mobile tech before I trusted the dealer. I can help you over the phone if you will call me.
  • KD4UPL's avatar
    KD4UPL
    Explorer
    Mar 16, 2020
    Your RV has a ground fault. It needs to be fixed. Your dealer is full of it. Tell him so. Or, find another dealer.
  • ScottG's avatar
    ScottG
    Nomad
    Mar 16, 2020
    It doesn't have to be plugged into 30A - they're lying because they have no idea how to fix it and don't want to take it on.
  • opnspaces's avatar
    opnspaces
    Navigator II
    Mar 16, 2020
    What is the location of the GFI that is tripping, on the house or in the RV? I wouldn't believe the dealer saying the manufacturer said you have to be plugged in to 30 amps. About the only way I believe that is because a 30A is usually not GFCI protected. You mentioned trying multiple GFI's and the problem is the same. Is there a particular reason you are only plugging into a GFI outlet, or is your whole house GFI?

    Try shutting off every breaker in the trailer including the main and then plug in. If the GFI doesn't trip try turning on the breakers one at a time starting with the main until it trips.

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