Gfci Outlet Not Working-How to fix?
If you’ve ever been in the middle of your household chore or important task, only to have your power suddenly cut out due to a tripped GFCI outlet, you’re aware of how crucial this small device is to the overall operation of your electrical systems. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets help prevent electrical shocks, especially in damp or wet locations in your home like the bathroom, kitchen, or basement. However, besides the sudden power outage, a GFCI outlet that is not working could also be a potential safety issue. But, worry not, a non-working GFCI outlet doesn’t necessarily mean a call to your electrician; there are simple methods to troubleshoot and fix this issue.
Identifying the Problem with the GFCI Outlet
Before trying to fix a GFCI outlet that is not working, it’s crucial to identify what the issue is. The most common problem is a tripped GFCI outlet, which cuts off the power. Sometimes the “reset” button is popped out after this happens. In this case, you just need to push it back in. If it trips again, there’s likely a ground fault somewhere in the circuit. This can happen if water type appliance is operating when you reset the outlet.
You should also consider that the issue might not be with the GFCI outlet itself but may lie in a defective appliance or tool that’s causing the GFCI to trip. Unplug all the devices from the outlet and try resetting it. If it doesn’t trip again, then plug in the devices one by one to identify the faulty one.
Checking the Wiring
After ruling out a tripped circuit or a faulty device, you should look into the wiring. **Incorrect wiring** is a common issue that can lead to a GFCI outlet not working. To verify the wiring, you’ll need to turn off the main power and remove the GFCI outlet. Connect the tester to the bare ground wire and hot wire. If it lights up, the wiring is probably okay. If not, you might want to call in an experienced electrician.
Replacing a Defective GFCI Outlet
If you’ve checked for trips and inspect the wiring but are still encountering issues with your GFCI outlet, it might be time to replace the outlet itself. Outlets generally last for around 10 years, but they can fail earlier due to heavy use or other damages. Replacing a GFCI outlet requires caution to avoid electrical shock. Always ensure that power to the circuit is off and use insulated tools. It generally involves removing the old outlet, attaching the wires to the new outlet, and fitting it to the wall. After this, turn the power back on, press the reset button, and test whether the GFCI is functioning as expected.
Professional Help
While these fixes might appear simple, working with electrical outlets always carries a risk of electric shock. Moreover, if you observe that multiple GFCI outlets are not working or find complex wiring issues, it is recommended to hire a professional electrician.
In conclusion, even if your GFCI outlet is not working, there are steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve the issue. Remember that safety should always be the prime concern when dealing with electrical systems, and if you’re unsure, it’s best to call in the experts.
