What can prevent a GFCI protection device from turning on?

A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection device is designed to detect imbalances in electrical current to prevent electrical shock. It continuously monitors the incoming and outgoing current and will trip if it senses a difference. The device requires a proper electrical path to function effectively, including a functional load application and a balanced connection of neutral, hot, and ground.

In situations where there is a neutral-to-case connection, which creates a direct electrical path to ground, this can cause the GFCI not to reset because it assumes that there is a ground fault present. This could lead to a situation where the GFCI is unable to detect a proper imbalance in current, resulting in the device remaining off or tripped.

Additionally, if the load application itself is mismatched or there is a fault in the wiring connected to it, that can also prevent the GFCI from functioning properly. This includes issues like incorrect polarity or other circuit problems. Therefore, both a neutral-to-case connection and improper load application can hinder the operation of a GFCI device.

When considering the combination of these factors, it becomes clear that both a neutral-to-case connection and a problematic load application can contribute to the failure of a GFCI to turn on.