9
loss of power. When the EPD is reset and power is restored, the unit displays the actual
trip time that the EPD took to respond to the current imbalance and open the circuit.
Pressing the down arrow button ( ) returns it to the wiring verification mode. If the EPD
fails to trip, the SureTest terminates the test after 6.5 seconds. Further inspection should
determine whether the EPD circuitry is faulty, the EPD is installed incorrectly, or if the cir-
cuit is protected by an EPD.
Troubleshooting Tips
Measurement
Expected
Problem
Possible
Possible
Result
Causes
Solutions
Check wiring for proper
installation in accordance
with manufacturer’s
instructions and NEC.
GFCI doesn’t trip.
GFCI may be
Check wiring and ground.
defective.
Replace GFCI if necessary.
AFCI Testing (#61-165 only)
The SureTest
®
w/AFCI applies 8-12 current pulses in less than a half second across hot-to-
neutral with each pulse no longer than 8.3ms in duration, and having an amplitude of 106-
141 amps in accordance with UL1436. A functional AFCI breaker should recognize these
current pulses as a dangerous arc and disconnect the power to the circuit. To restore
power, reset the breaker at the panel.
To properly test the AFCI, execute the following steps:
1) Consult the AFCI manufacturer's installation instructions to determine that the AFCI is
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications.
2) Plug in the SureTest and check for correct wiring of receptacle and all remotely con-
nected receptacles on the branch circuit. Then, go to the panel and operate the test but-
ton on the AFCI installed in the circuit. The AFCI must trip. If it does not, do not use the
circuit - consult an electrician. If the AFCI does trip, reset the AFCI.
3) Return to the tester and press the AFCI button on the tester to enter the AFCI main
menu. The AFCI symbol in the display should be highlighted as the default test. If
NEUT is lit, then use the side arrow (
)
to highlight the AFCI symbol. Then, press
the AFCI button to activate the test. The TEST icon and lightning bolt symbol light
brightly on the display to let the user know that the AFCI test is being performed. The
AFCI device should trip causing the display to blank out with the loss of power. If the
AFCI fails to trip, the SureTest
®
will not lose power and the display shows a dimly lit
GFCI Test
GFCI trips
within trip time
GFCI doesn’t
trip within proper
trip time.
GFCI maybe
installed
improperly.
10
lightning bolt. This non-trip condition would suggest:
a) A wiring problem with a totally operable AFCI, or
b) Proper wiring with a faulty AFCI.
Consult with an electrician to check the condition of the wiring and AFCI.
4) CAUTION: AFCIs recognize characteristics unique to arcing, and AFCI testers produce
characteristics that mimic some forms of arcing. Because of this, the tester may give a
false indication that the AFCI is not functioning properly. If this occurs, recheck the
operation of the AFCI using the test and reset buttons. The AFCI’s test button function
should demonstrate proper operation.
Note: The AFCI circuitry is protected by a thermal sensor to assure long life. If a
thermometer icon appears in the display during repeated AFCI testing, the sensor
delays further testing until the circuitry cools. At that point, the testing will automatically
continue.
Shared Neutral Test (#61-165 only)
AFCI breakers are prone to nuisance tripping when wired with a shared neutral or when the
neutral conductor is accidentally grounded before the panel. The AFCI tripping occurs
because it senses an imbalance between the current going out on the hot and the current
returning on the neutral. A shared neutral between two hot conductors creates this imbal-
ance. See the illustration below to see how this imbalance can occur.
The SureTest can test for these conditions by applying a small load of 300mA between hot
and neutral to simulate a normal load and ensure that the AFCI breaker does not trip. To
conduct a shared neutral test, press the AFCI button to enter the AFCI main menu. Press
the side arrow (
) to highlight the NEUT symbol. Then, press the AFCI button to activate
the test. The TEST icon will light brightly while the test is being conducted. The AFCI
breaker should not trip. If the breaker does trip, a shared neutral is the probable cause.
Illustration:
SureTest Shared Neutral Test w/300mA load
3A
H1
3.3A
N
300mA
H2
)
)
)
)
Lights
Outlet
Circuit #1: Breaker
Circuit #2: Breaker
ND 5481-6 61-164 165 Ins 8/28/08 1:55 PM Page 9
