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DIY guideGFCI outlet

Test the GFCI outlets

Press TEST, check the power goes off with a lamp, then press RESET. One that won't trip needs an electrician.

  • 5 to 15 min
  • 5 steps
  • Every step animated
Test the GFCI outlets: the animation’s first picture

5 steps

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  1. Plug a lamp or a night light into the GFCI outlet and switch it on.

    Dry your hands first, and don't touch a wet outlet.

  2. Press the TEST button. It should click, and the lamp should go out.

  3. Press RESET firmly until it clicks and stays in. The lamp comes back on.

  4. Do the same at each GFCI outlet: the kitchen, the bathrooms, the laundry, the garage, the basement and outside. Once a month is good.

  5. If the lamp stays on after TEST, or RESET won't stay in, the outlet isn't protecting you. Leave it and ask Handyman for an electrician.

What you need

  • A lamp or a night light

Call a pro if

  • The lamp stays on when you press TEST
  • RESET won't stay in
  • The outlet is warm, cracked or scorched

Handyman says: Lamp still on? I'll find an electrician.

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