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DIY guideGFCI outlet

Reset a GFCI outlet

Bring back power to outlets near water by resetting the GFCI outlet that tripped.

  • 2 to 5 min
  • 5 steps
  • Every step animated
Reset a GFCI outlet: the animation’s first picture

5 steps

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  1. Unplug anything from the dead outlet and the outlets near it.

  2. Look for an outlet with Test and Reset buttons. It may not be the dead one: check the kitchen, the bathrooms, the garage, the basement and outside.

    If the outlet or your hands are wet, dry them first. Don't touch a wet outlet.

  3. Press Reset firmly until it clicks and stays in. A small light on it may come on.

  4. Plug in a lamp. If it works, plug your things back in one at a time.

  5. If Reset won't stay in, or it trips again right away, leave it off and ask Handyman for an electrician.

What you need

  • A lamp or a phone charger, to test the outlet

Call a pro if

  • Reset won't stay in, or it trips again right away
  • The outlet is warm, cracked or scorched
  • It trips every time it rains

Handyman says: Won't stay in? Leave it off. I'll find you an electrician.

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