So the GFCI popped again. I now get phone calls from Alarm Grid about the power outage. I decided to look at the wiring in the garage. I started at the GFCI outlet and worked my way around.
The breaker is 20amp and I was glad to see they used 12 gauge for the wiring. However they used a 14 gauge jumper for the ground…. I replaced the jumper and noticed this on the neutral.
The left lug, the copper portion of the wire was black. So I pulled it out and saw this.
Was a little out of focus but it was jet black. I snipped it and stripped it for some fresh copper. I found out the reason. Two of the three outlets the neutrals were barely making contact.
You can see where the screw smashed into the sheathing of the wire. I re-stripped them and repaired it.
The conductors of the wire shouldn’t turn black like that. I’m 15 miles from the ocean and I don’t have any harsh chemicals in the garage so this means the wires got pretty hot. Typically bare copper will tarnish but from a bright finish to a dull color like a penny. If it turns green it’s from moisture.
Tempted to send these to the builder but with my luck they would void the warranty.