GFCI outlets, or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters, are essential for protecting your family from electrical shock in wet or damp areas of your home. You’ll typically find GFCIs in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, laundry rooms, and outdoor spaces.
These outlets shut off power automatically when they detect a ground fault—like moisture or current leakage—to reduce the risk of electrocution. But what happens when a GFCI won’t reset or seems to trip for no reason?
This guide from Site Electric Services, your trusted electricians in Vallejo, Napa, Benicia, Fairfield, Concord, and Walnut Creek, will walk you through how to troubleshoot a tripped GFCI outlet—and when to call in a licensed professional.
Start by identifying the GFCI outlet that has tripped. Look for outlets with “Test” and “Reset” buttons—usually with the Reset button popped out.
Be aware:
- GFCIs may protect multiple outlets downstream on the same circuit.
- A GFCI in the garage may control exterior or even bathroom outlets.
- If one outlet doesn’t work, the GFCI for that circuit may be in another room.
Pro tip: Walk through your home and test all GFCIs. A tripped one might not bein the room where power is lost.
Once you find the tripped outlet:
1. Unplug all devices from the GFCI and downstream outlets.
2. Press the Reset button firmly until it clicks.
3. Plug in a small device (like a lamp or phone charger) to verify power is restored.
If the outlet won’t reset, try step 4.
In outdoor or damp locations, moisture is a frequent cause of GFCI tripping. Check for:
- Water around the outlet or in the box
- Dirt, bugs, or corrosion
- Cracks in the GFCI faceplate or conduit
If you see signs of water damage or rust, do not reset—call a licensed electrician.
A plugged-in appliance could be causing the issue. Try this:
1. Unplug all items from the circuit.
2. Reset the GFCI.
3. Reconnect devices one at a time.
Common culprits:
- Outdoor string lights
- Coffee makers
- Space heaters
- Plug-in air fresheners
All GFCIs should be tested monthly:
1. Press the Test button — the outlet should lose power.
2. Press Reset to restore power.
If it doesn’t respond or reset, it may be faulty and needs replacement.
GFCIs wear out every 7–10 years—and faster in outdoor or humid areas.
Call a licensed electrician if:
- The GFCI keeps tripping with no load
- The Reset button won’t stay in
- The outlet is warm, sparking, or buzzing
- You’re unsure which outlets are downstream or protected
At Site Electric Services, we’re experts at diagnosing tricky electrical issues, including GFCI problems, panel upgrades, and code-compliant repairs. We proudly serve:
- Vallejo
- Napa
- Benicia
- Fairfield
- Concord
- Walnut Creek
- Surrounding Bay Area communities
Need help with a GFCI that won’t reset or trips constantly? Call (707) 653-0376 or schedule service online at https://www.site-electric.com/contact. We’re here to help—prompt, professional, and local.
