Hi everyone, I just discovered this forum as a result of a problem I'm having. I have a well-used Barista (I know, I know) and I just added GFCI's to my kitchen. Problem is, when I hit the power switch, the GFCI trips immediately. I've tried it in a few different GFCI outlets with the same results. A friend tried her Barista at my place with no issues. I looked inside the machine, with no obvious problems i.e. abraded wire insulation etc. The machine works just fine in a non-GFCI outlet, but I'd feel better at least identifying the problem. I'm not in a position to replace the machine at this point, and am wondering if anyone here has had a similar problem or possibly an idea of what might be wrong. I did search this site and found one similar post, but it's not the same thing.

Thanks much!
Dave

Since it is tripping immediately upon powering on, I am led to suspect a problem with the heating element. On many machines, the first sign of a failing element is the development of a "fault current" that goes directly from the element to the aluminum or brass boiler.

If you are comfortable poking around inside the machine (unplugged, of course), try to locate the two terminals for the heater. Pull the wires off temporarily and secure them someplace so they don't short to anything. Then turn the machine back on. If it still trips, then you've at least ruled out the heating element.

Jim

Thanks Jim...oddly enough, today the machine started leaking water out of the head. It did this once before, about three years ago. The heating element needed to be replaced, as one of the threaded nuts that's part of the element had cracked. I suspect that's exactly what's going on again, and thus the tripping of the GFCI. I do appreciate the thoughtful response - thank you!

Dave