A GFCI outlet — the one with the TEST and RESET buttons — cuts power in a fraction of a second when it senses current leaking where it should not go. That is what protects you in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoors. When it keeps tripping or will not reset, it is telling you something.
Try this first
- Unplug everything from the GFCI and from any outlets it protects, then press RESET firmly. If it holds, plug items back in one at a time.
- Check whether the outlet is wet, or whether the problem started after rain or cleaning. Moisture is a common cause outdoors and in bathrooms.
- Check the breaker — a tripped breaker will also keep a GFCI from resetting.
Call an electrician if
- The GFCI will not reset even with nothing plugged in.
- It trips again as soon as you plug something in.
- The outlet is warm, discolored, cracked, or buzzing.
A GFCI that will not reset may be worn out, wired wrong, or protecting a circuit with a real ground fault. McLeod Electric — Master Electrician #A 12769, Hanson, MA. Call (781) 447-6040. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Emergencies, call anytime.
Leave a Reply