December 20, 2011 By Dave Rongey ©2007-2012Author - Licensed Electrical Contractor Filed under Shed Wiring

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Installing an Electrical Circuit for a Shed

Installing Electrical Wiring for a Shed

• I have a 12/2 w/ground running from the circuit breaker to and through a GFCI outlet and on direct via underground conduit pipe to the shed.
• When I plug an outlet analyzer into outlets in the shed it shows correct wiring (2 green lights). However, when I accidentally touched the neutral wire I got a tingle. Not a shock but definitely a small current.
• I believed that the GFCI is supposed to trip if it detects any potential between ground and neutral.
  1. First, is that correct?
  2. and second, does it sound like there is anything wrong with my circuit in the shed?
     • Also, the GFCI has tripped for no apparent reason a couple of times.

Thanks.

This electrical question came from: Lee, a Homeowner from San Jose, California.
See more about Home Wiring for California

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Lee.

Electrical Wiring for Your Shed

• Lee, from the information that you have provided it appears that there is a problem with the electrical circuit or wiring or connections.
• The GFCI should not be tripping and the fact that it has for no apparent reason is enough indication that there is a problem.
• Merely coming into contact with a neutral wire should not produce an electric shock unless there is an existing load on the circuit and your body is providing a low resistance path to ground or your body has been placed in the center of the path of two neutral wires which are under load.
  • The other important item I must mention is that
    • if this project was done according to electrical code, with a permit through the local building department,
    • and the project was inspected
    • then the chance that there would be any problem would be significantly low.

The Following links will assist you with your electrical question:

• Circuit Wiring
  Electrical Panel Circuit Listing
• Electrical Wiring
• GFCI Outlet Wiring
• Underground Electrical Codes

GFCI Wiring

• GFCI Wiring
• This list of articles will help you learn about the features and benefits provided by GFI and GFCI Receptacles and how they are wired.

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• Electrical Wiring Protection using Circuit Breakers
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• Electrical Wire for the Home
• Complete listing of electrical wire types and parts used for home projects with electrical code information serves as selection guidelines.