KitchenAid ( Model KRFF305ESS ) Refrigerator Tripping GFCI When Defrosting

[JayhawkNavy02]

Model Number

KRFF305ESS

Brand

KitchenAid

Age

1-5 years

My Kitchenaid 25 cu ft 36-width French Door Refrigerator is ( Kitchenaid Model Hyperlink ) Model KRFF305ESS. Recently the GFCI started to trip whenever the defrost mode was utilized. I replaced the GFCI, which was old, but the same issue persists. If I plug it in to a non-GFCI using an extension cord it does not trip the breaker. Unfortunately it looks like all the outlets in the kitchen are connected downstream from 2 GFCIs. Appreciate any help troubleshooting what may be causing the GFCI to trip when the defroster starts.

Jay

 

[Jake]

Ok Jay, then it has to be another GFCI downstream that's causing this problem, because in a NON-GFCI its fine, you see what I mean?

You will probably need to get a electrician out to see which GFCI is the problem child.

Jake

 

[JayhawkNavy02]

The GFCI it is tripping is upstream of the outlet. No more GFCI downstream. Upstream is one more on the circuit and it is good.

 

[Jake]

Then there is still a problem in the GFCI circuit, you will need a electrician to come out Jay.

Jake

 

[JayhawkNavy02]

Thanks Jake,

I'll probably have to re-wire so that the GFCI circuit doesn't include the refrigerator. I've read the the defrost thermostat or defrost heater can trip the GFCI? Is that something I should look at in the fridge as well?

 

[Jake]

No home appliances should be connected to a GFCI circuit period.

GFCI is only for small appliances near a water source like a sink.

Jake