5 Things to Know About GFCI Trips With Extension Cords

Long extension cords cause more GFCI trips The extra length adds capacitance and increases the chance of small current leaks to ground, which triggers the GFCI.

It is usually not a safety problem The tripping is typically just an annoyance, not a sign of danger.

Use a heavy-duty cord A 12-gauge or thicker grounded cord reduces the likelihood of nuisance trips.

Keep the cord as short as practical Shorter cords have less capacitance and fewer ground leak paths.

Check the cord if it keeps tripping Damage or moisture inside the cord is a common cause. Swap it out before blaming the outlet.