GFCI Keeps Tripping

[ArlingtonDave]

Today, a GFCI outlet in my house keeps tripping. The GFCI is the first outlet in a circuit of 8 outlets. It's a 20 amp line. Only 2 table lights and a small capacity (40 bottle) wine cooler on the circuit. Wiring and cooler are 6 years old. I replaced the GFCI outlet, but same problem. I unplugged the lights, same thing. Last step, the wine cooler -- thinking perhaps the compressor was causing an issue. Unplugged the cooler too and the GFCI keeps tripping. When I reset, the line will be live for around 1 minute and then trip off, even with nothing pulling a load. Is it possible the circuit breaker is bad? Any ideas?

[aandpdan]

I doubt it is a problem with the breaker. It is "upstream" of the GFCI and if it isn't tripping, it should be OK.

You've unplugged the fridge and the lights and it still trips. Are you positive that there is nothing else on this circuit, maybe an outdoor outlet? Is this in the basement (wet location)?

If a new GFCI didn't fix the problem then I'd start checking the outlets/boxes/wiring for damage or moisture problems. Make sure all connections are clean and tight. You can narrow where the problem is by first disconnecting the load side connections on the GFCI to isolate that. If no problem, move to the first outlet after the GFCI and disconnect the "load" side of that outlet. Keep doing this until you have the problem reoccur.

Good luck.

[ArlingtonDave]

I'm confident no outside outlets and only the 8 I mentioned. No, not in the basement, is on the main floor. I guess I know what I'll be doing for my Sunday! Thanks