What To Do When Your GFCI Plugs Are Not Working
Dealing with a tripped outlet can be a frustrating experience for any homeowner. Suddenly, your appliances stop working, leaving you puzzled about what went wrong — but fear not!
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to fix a tripped outlet quickly and safely. From identifying the problem to troubleshooting ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets, you can count on Mission Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electric to share our expertise.
What Is A Tripped Outlet?
GFCI outlets are specifically designed to detect ground faults, which occur when electrical current leaks from a circuit to the ground. This can happen if a person accidentally touches a live wire or if water comes into contact with an electrical appliance or outlet.
These outlets are designed with test and reset buttons on the faceplate. These buttons allow users to regularly test the functionality of the outlet and reset it if it has tripped due to a ground fault. Standard outlets do not have this built-in protection.
A tripped outlet occurs when an electrical circuit shuts off to prevent overloading, which can lead to fires or other damage. This is often a sign of protection and not just a nuisance. Overloading an outlet with too many appliances, using faulty appliances or dealing with outdated wiring can all lead to trips.
Step-by-Step Guide To Fixing A Tripped Outlet
When it comes to performing any electrical work, safety is key. That’s why our team urges homeowners to fully understand the process involved in resetting an outlet before doing so. By understanding effective strategies, as well as any safety concerns, you can take effective steps to restore your outlets.
1. Take Initial Precautions: Prioritize Your Safety
Before beginning any work on your electrical system, it’s crucial to take the following safety precautions to ensure a safe and risk-free environment:
- Inform others in the home — Let everyone in your household know that you are working on the electrical system to avoid someone accidentally turning the power back on while you’re working.
- Unplug devices — Before starting any work, unplug all devices connected to the outlet to prevent electrical surges or interference during testing and repairs.
- Wear insulated gloves — Protect yourself from accidental shocks by wearing insulated gloves designed to provide an additional layer of safety.
- Test the outlet — Use a non-contact voltage tester to verify that the outlet is not powered. This ensures you’re working under safe conditions.
These precautions are essential for protecting yourself from electrical hazards and should always be followed when dealing with electrical maintenance or repair.
2. Diagnose And Test the Outlet: How To Tell If Your GFCI Outlet Is Bad
To tell if your outlet is tripped, start by looking at the outlet itself. If it’s a GFCI outlet, it will have two buttons labeled “Test” and “Reset.” Press the reset button. If the outlet clicks and the power returns to the outlet, it has tripped but is now reset.
If pressing reset doesn’t restore power, press “Test” and then “Reset” again to see if that restores power. If the outlet is still not working, go to your fuse box. Look for a breaker that is in the “off” position or a middle position between “on” and “off.” This indicates a tripped breaker.
3. Reset The Circuit Breaker: Restore Power To GFCI Plugs Not Working
If the circuit breaker had been tripped, causing your outlet to stop working, safely flip the breaker associated with the outlet to the off position and then back on. If the breaker trips again, it indicates a more serious issue. After resetting, perform a post-check to see if the outlet operates correctly.
When To Call A Professional Electrician
If basic troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue, it’s wise to call a professional. An electrician can assess and repair more complex issues like wiring faults or damaged outlets.
Additionally, if the circuit breaker trips repeatedly, or if a GFCI outlet consistently trips and won’t reset after following the basic troubleshooting steps, this could indicate a more severe underlying problem that requires professional attention.
If at any point during your troubleshooting you’re unsure about your safety or the correct steps to take, it’s best to stop and consult a professional. Electrical work can be hazardous, and there’s no substitute for the training and experience of a licensed electrician.
Contact Our Team For Your Electrical Needs
Addressing a tripped outlet promptly and correctly is important for maintaining your home’s safety and functionality. By following these steps, you can often solve simple issues independently. However, never hesitate to contact a professional when the situation is beyond basic fixes.
For any persistent or complex electrical issues, reach out to Mission Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electric. Our team of skilled electricians is ready to ensure your home’s electrical systems are safe and reliable.
Don’t risk your safety — let us handle your electrical needs with precision and care.
