Pond chemicals and GFCI

[Gilroy]

4 year old 1/4 hp submersible pump began tripping GFCI. Replaced motor-still tripping. I replaced 15 amp GFCI with 20 amp GFCI - still tripping. I filled a plastic trash can with rain water and plastic bucket with pond water - both pumps trip a (different) 15 amp GFCI when submerged in the pond water bucket and both run fine when placed in the rain water can. Pond water test strips appear to show acceptable levels. Can water chemical affect GFCI performance? I recently began adding salt and cyanuric acid because of low test strip levels.

 

[Mmathis]

First of all, hello and welcome!

Are you talking about a POND or a POOL? Do you have fish?

To answer your question, IDK, but I could see where some additives might alter the conductivity of the water. Cyanuric acid? I have no idea. Maybe someone else with more of a chemistry background can help you.

 

[Gilroy]

My small in ground pool is 100 gallon with a waterfall feature. No fish.

 

[JRS]

The more minerals (ions) in the water increase electrical conductivity, so perhaps a small electrical leak that the GFI can only sense with the pump in a more conductive solution.

 

[mrsclem]

What water tests were off?

 

[j.w]

@Gilroy

 

[GBBUDD]

Sounds like your electrical is the culprit and its probably a poor ground @poconojoe any insight?