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Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) Receptacles with Surge Protectors
GFCI receptacles are frequently installed in kitchen, bathroom and garage areas where there is an
unusually large risk of electric shock. GFCI receptacles are normally rectangular and have small
‘TEST’ and ‘RESET’ buttons to test their operation. GFCI receptacles are only to protect people from
electrical shock - they do not have any surge protection.
Panamax protectors can be plugged into GFCI receptacles and will work properly, if the GFCI and
building wiring are correct. There is no conflict. The Panamax protector does not interfere with the
protective function of the GFCI.
Additional notes:
Sometimes, GFCI are installed on two-wire (ungrounded) systems instead of adding a proper ground
wire. Thus, it is important to test the GFCI receptacle with an outlet tester to make sure that the
ground terminal is connected. If the GFCI is not properly grounded, the Panamax connected
equipment warranty is not in effect. This is the same rule as for any other ungrounded receptacle.
Occasionally, if there is a nearby lightning strike, the GFCI may ‘trip’ and disconnect the power to the
receptacle. There is no damage done to the GFCI or the Panamax protector. Simply press the
button to reset the GFCI.
This unwanted tripping is a result of the protective action of the Panamax protector. When lightning
strikes and the Panamax protector detours the lightning to ground, the GFCI senses that there are
unexpected currents in the ground circuit and ‘trips’ open.
In high lightning areas or especially exposed locations, this may happen frequently enough to make
the application difficult.
If the customer requires GFCI protection in such a situation the Panamax protector should be
plugged into a regular outlet. The customer can then buy an extension cord with a GFCI circuit in it.
This GFCI extension cord can be plugged into the Panamax protector. This arrangement provides
surge protection and GFCI protection, but the connected equipment warranty is not in effect.
Gfci.doc
150 Mitchell Blvd., San Rafael, CA 94903-2057 l USA & Canada 800 472-5555 l FAX 415 472-5540