Troubleshooting GFCI Outlet That Won't Reset (Troubleshooting Guide)

On this page

Quick answer
Confirm the symptom
Tools and prep
Step-by-step troubleshooting
Common causes table
Parts matching
When to call a pro
FAQ
Related guides

Quick answer

Turn off power at the breaker. Press the reset button. If it still won't reset, replace the GFCI outlet. Check for tripped breakers or damaged wiring.

Confirm the symptom

GFCI outlet's reset button is popped out
Reset button won't press in or stay in
Outlet powers nothing, even after pressing reset
Other outlets on the same circuit also don't work
No tripping sensation when pressing reset

Tools and prep

Voltage tester or multimeter
Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
Replacement GFCI outlet
Work gloves and safety glasses
Turn off power at the circuit breaker
Label the breaker for reference

Step-by-step troubleshooting

Turn Off Power
Do: Locate the circuit breaker for the GFCI outlet and turn it off.
Observe: The power to the outlet is off.
Means: You can safely work on the outlet without risk of electric shock.
Next: Test the outlet with a voltage tester to confirm power is off.
Test the Outlet
Do: Use a voltage tester to check if power is off at the outlet.
Observe: The tester shows no voltage.
Means: The power is safely off, and you can proceed with troubleshooting.
Next: Press the reset button on the GFCI outlet.
Press the Reset Button
Do: Press the reset button firmly on the GFCI outlet.
Observe: The button stays in and the outlet powers on.
Means: The GFCI outlet was tripped and has been successfully reset.
Next: Test the outlet with a device to confirm it's working.
Check for Persistent Issues
Do: If the reset button won't stay in, try pressing it again.
Observe: The button still won't stay in or resets immediately.
Means: There may be a wiring issue or the outlet is faulty.
Next: Inspect the wiring connections inside the outlet.
Inspect Wiring Connections
Do: Remove the outlet cover and carefully inspect the wiring connections.
Observe: Loose or damaged wires are visible.
Means: Improper wiring can cause the GFCI outlet to malfunction.
Next: Tighten or replace any loose or damaged wires.
Replace the GFCI Outlet
Do: If wiring is intact, replace the GFCI outlet with a new one.
Observe: The new outlet resets properly and powers devices.
Means: The old outlet was faulty and needed replacement.
Next: Restore power and test the new outlet.

Common causes

Cause	Likelihood	Difficulty	Part often needed
Faulty GFCI Outlet Internal components may be damaged or worn out.	Common	Medium	GFCI outlet
Tripped Breaker The circuit breaker may have tripped due to an overload or short circuit.	Common	Easy	None
Loose or Damaged Wiring Loose connections or damaged wires can prevent the outlet from functioning properly.	Sometimes	Medium	Wire connectors
Moisture or Water Damage Moisture can cause the GFCI outlet to trip or fail.	Sometimes	Easy	None
Overloaded Circuit Too many devices on the same circuit can cause the GFCI to trip.	Sometimes	Easy	None
Ground Fault in the Circuit A ground fault in another device on the same circuit can cause the GFCI to trip.	Rare	Hard	None

Parts matching

If you need to replace the GFCI outlet, choose a model that matches your electrical system's requirements.

15-amp or 20-amp rating, depending on the circuit
Standard or tamper-resistant (TR) design
Weather-resistant (WR) if installed outdoors
UL-listed for safety and compliance
Same number of receptacles as the original outlet

Check the existing outlet for its amperage and type to ensure compatibility with the replacement.

When to call a professional

The GFCI outlet continues to trip or won't reset after replacement
You smell burning or see visible damage to the outlet or wiring
You're unsure about identifying the correct circuit breaker
Multiple outlets on the same circuit are malfunctioning
You lack confidence working with electrical systems

FAQ

Can I reset a GFCI outlet without turning off the power?

No, always turn off the power at the circuit breaker before attempting to reset or replace a GFCI outlet to avoid electric shock.

Why does my GFCI outlet keep tripping?

Frequent tripping may indicate a ground fault, moisture, or an overloaded circuit. Check for these issues and replace the outlet if necessary.

How do I know if the GFCI outlet is faulty?

If the outlet won't reset, doesn't power devices, or trips immediately after resetting, it's likely faulty and needs replacement.

Can a bad GFCI outlet affect other outlets on the same circuit?

Yes, a faulty GFCI outlet can cause other outlets on the same circuit to lose power. Check all outlets on the circuit for issues.

Do I need an electrician to replace a GFCI outlet?

If you're comfortable working with electrical systems, you can replace a GFCI outlet yourself. Otherwise, hire a licensed electrician for safety.