The ranking is rules, not opinion — here is exactly how an answer set becomes a ranked result and a safe next check.
source-governedDiagnostic estimate. Not a quote, not a substitute for a licensed electrician.sources verified 2026-06-20view sources ↓
Method
The trip timing pattern is the primary signal — weather-correlated, single-appliance, heavy-use, or random — and each rule is shown with its weight.
Accumulated leakage is treated as real physics rather than a defect: a long run or many devices can sum normal leakages past the ~5 mA threshold without any single fault.
The tool never suggests defeating protection. Swapping a GFCI for a standard outlet to stop trips is excluded; persistent trips with nothing downstream are routed to an electrician as a wiring fault.
Sources
standard UL 943 — GFCI trip threshold (Class A, ~4-6 mA) · verified 2026-06-20
code NEC 210.8 — GFCI locations (damp/wet) · verified 2026-06-20
code NEC 406.9 — Receptacles in damp/wet locations (in-use covers) · verified 2026-06-20
Where to stop. Drying a receptacle, fitting an in-use cover, and unplugging downstream loads are homeowner-safe. Replacing a GFCI or chasing a fault inside boxes means live conductors — if a GFCI keeps tripping with nothing plugged in, that's a wiring fault for a licensed electrician. This is general information, not a quote and not a substitute for a licensed electrician.
Electrical Fault Check provides general diagnostic information only. It is not professional advice, not a quote, and not a substitute for a licensed electrician. Do not work on live wiring. If you see smoke, sparks, burning smell, heat, shock, water exposure, or repeated tripping, stop using the circuit and contact a licensed electrician or emergency services as appropriate.