Ground-fault circuit interrupters, or GFCIs, are essential in preventing electrical accidents at home.
What is a GFCI outlet? It is a device used to replace a standard electrical outlet. It monitors the amount of power going into plugged appliances. GFCIs trip whenever they sense irregularities in the electrical current, needing as little as 1/40th of a second to react.
While GFCIs keep us safe from electrical shocks and electrocution, they can malfunction like any other device. Sometimes, they won’t reset, which can be frustrating and potentially dangerous.
If your GFCI outlet is not working as it should, here are some possible reasons behind the issue and how to troubleshoot them. It’s best to call in a licensed professional to handle electrical components in your home.
GFCI Outlet Not Resetting? Here’s What to Do
Homeowners should investigate if a GFCI outlet won’t reset. There are various possible causes for a GFCI outlet that won’t reset. Here are some reasons why you may be having this problem.
Loose Components or Faulty Connection
One of the most common reasons a GFCI won’t reset is loose parts or connection problems within the outlet. Improper installation and wear and tear over time can cause components to become loose. That leads to issues like electrical current interruptions, power fluctuations and damage from power surges.
It’s best to let a professional deal with this problem. A licensed electrician will tighten loose wiring and replace damaged parts, leaving you with a functioning GFCI outlet with no problem resetting.
No Power Supply to the GFCI Outlet
If your GFCI isn’t resetting, it might be because no power is coming to the outlet. You’ll want to see if the issue stops with just that one GFCI outlet or persists throughout the entire room or house. You can use different plug-in appliances to test your outlets. If there’s no power anywhere, you might have a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse. Turning the breaker off and on or replacing the fuse should resolve the issue.
If all other outlets work fine, you can test the affected GFCI outlet to see if it’s getting power. Most new GFCIs have a self-testing feature, equipped with red and green lights that show if they’re operating correctly. However, if you have older GFCIs at home that lack this capability, you’ll want to contact a professional.
Faulty GFCI Outlet
If you’ve tested your GFCI outlet and it’s not getting power, you might need to have it replaced with a new one. It could be faulty due to a manufacturing defect, wear and tear from frequent use or a power surge. Have a professional electrician install the replacement and ensure it’s working smoothly.
Moisture Inside the GFCI Outlet
Moisture is GFCI’s number one enemy. For safety reasons, building codes require homeowners to install GFCIs near water sources because of the increased risk of shorting. Moisture could be the reason why your GFCI outlet won’t reset.
Is your GFCI outlet not resetting? The fix could be as simple as resetting your tripped breaker. However, there could be a more complex reason behind the problem, like loose wiring or a faulty GFCI.
If the solution is beyond your DIY skills, contact a licensed electrician. The electrician will perform the necessary repairs or replacements and ensure your GFCI outlet can prevent electrical dangers.
What Should Not Be Plugged Into a GFCI Outlet?
The National Electrical Code has designated circuits inside a home that require GFCI protection. These include receptacles in kitchens, bathrooms, garages and crawl spaces. As a safety precaution, any area where electricity and water can meet should have a GFCI outlet.
GFCI outlets have various benefits. Not only do they keep you and your family safe from electrical shocks, but they also safeguard your home from electrical fires.Keep your GFCIs working properly by only plugging in suitable appliances.
How Long Do GFCI Outlets Last?
GFCIs can last you a long time, making them worth the investment. These safety devices can keep working for 7 to 25 years with proper maintenance. However, they are not indestructible and can fail prematurely for the following reasons.
Overloaded Circuit
If you overload it by plugging in too many devices, your GFCI outlet might malfunction.
Moisture in Receptacle Box
Moisture accumulation in the receptacle box is another reason GFCI outlets fail. Outdoor units are the most susceptible to this problem. If you live in an area with lots of rain and humidity, check your receptacle boxes regularly.
Excess Heat
Like many appliances, GFCI outlets don’t do well in extreme heat. They can overheat and malfunction if they’re baking under the sun. You can prevent this issue by installing weatherproof covers to protect them.
Schedule regular maintenance with a professional electrician to make your investment last as long as possible. They can install your GFCI outlets correctly and ensure they are in tip-top shape for many years.
Leave Your GFCI Problems to Licensed Electricians
GFCI outlets ensure the safety of your home and family from electrical hazards, adding to your peace of mind. However, they can cause unnecessary stress if they’re not functioning as they should. Why does my GFCI keep tripping? If these problems are bugging you, let licensed electricians come to the rescue. They have the tools and expertise to solve your GFCI problems.
ABC Can Get Your GFCI Outlets Working Again
Don’t take any risks when it comes to your home’s electrical system. Let the professional electricians at ABC Home & Commercial Services use their tools and training to diagnose the issue and quickly get to work on making any needed repairs.
