How to Reset a GFCI Outlet (and What to Do if It Won’t Reset)

Ever had an outlet that suddenly stops working, leaving you wondering if your toaster, hair dryer, or coffee maker just gave up? Don’t panic. Chances are, your GFCI outlet did exactly what it was designed to do—protect you from an electrical shock.

Learning how to reset a GFCI outlet is simple, but understanding why it tripped (and what to do if it won’t reset) can save you frustration, time, and even a service call.

At The Electricians, we help Colorado homeowners keep their homes safe, efficient, and fully powered. Here’s everything you need to know about resetting a GFCI outlet and troubleshooting common issues.

What Is a GFCI Outlet?

A GFCI outlet, or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter, is a safety device that protects you from electrical shock. You’ll usually find them in areas where water and electricity could meet—like bathrooms, kitchens, garages, basements, and outdoor spaces.

A GFCI outlet constantly monitors the flow of electricity. If it detects even a small difference in current between the hot and neutral wires (for example, if electricity is leaking through water or your body), it immediately shuts off power.

This quick response can literally save your life.

How Do You Reset a GFCI Outlet?

If your outlet suddenly stops working, resetting it might take just a few seconds. Here’s the right way to do it:

1. Locate the GFCI Outlet

Most homes have at least one GFCI outlet per circuit, but sometimes multiple outlets are connected to a single GFCI. Check your kitchen, bathrooms, laundry room, garage, and exterior walls.

The outlet will have two buttons—TEST and RESET.

If you have a GFCI outlet without a reset button, it might be connected to another GFCI upstream. Try locating the main GFCI controlling the circuit.

2. Unplug Everything

Before you hit reset, unplug all appliances connected to the outlet. This prevents a faulty device from tripping it again immediately.

3. Press the RESET Button

Firmly press the RESET button until you hear a click. If power returns, congratulations—you’ve successfully reset your GFCI outlet! Plug your appliances back in one at a time to confirm everything works.

What Happens When a GFCI Is Tripped?

When a GFCI outlet detects an imbalance in the electrical current, it instantly “trips” to cut off power. This can happen for a few reasons:

• Moisture exposure: Common in bathrooms, kitchens, or outdoor outlets.
• Faulty appliances: Old or damaged appliances can leak current.
• Wiring issues: Loose connections or damaged insulation can cause ground faults.
• Overloaded circuits: Plugging too many devices into one outlet can cause problems.
• Normal wear and tear: Like all electrical devices, GFCIs can degrade over time.

Tripping is a safety feature—not a malfunction. But if it happens frequently, there’s likely an underlying issue worth addressing.

What Causes a GFCI Outlet to Not Reset?

If your GFCI outlet won’t reset, it could mean one of several things:

1. No Power to the Circuit

If your circuit breaker tripped, the GFCI won’t reset until power is restored. Head to your electrical panel and make sure none of the breakers are in the “off” or middle position.

2. A Ground Fault Still Exists

If water or a damaged appliance is still creating a fault, the outlet will refuse to reset. Unplug all connected devices and allow any moisture to dry before trying again.

3. Wiring Problems

Loose, damaged, or reversed wires inside the outlet can prevent it from functioning. This is especially common in older homes or DIY installations. In this case, you’ll need a licensed electrician to inspect and repair the wiring.

4. The GFCI Outlet Is Worn Out

GFCI outlets typically last 10–15 years. If your outlet feels loose, the buttons are unresponsive, or it trips constantly, it might simply be time to replace it.

5. A Tripped Breaker Upstream

Some GFCI outlets are wired to a breaker or another outlet that provides protection for multiple locations. Check your main GFCI or electrical panel for a tripped breaker.

Do All GFCI Outlets Have a Reset Button?

Not necessarily. Some GFCIs are built into circuit breakers rather than wall outlets. Others might be hidden behind appliances or located upstream from the dead outlet.

If you find an outlet that looks normal but has no reset or test button, it might be downstream of a GFCI located elsewhere.

If you cannot find any reset buttons in your home, check your electrical panel for a GFCI breaker—these usually have a small “TEST” button near the switch.

How to Test Your GFCI Outlet

Testing your GFCI outlet monthly ensures it’s still protecting you. Here’s how:

1. Plug in a small device (like a lamp).
2. Press the TEST button. The lamp should turn off immediately.
3. Press the RESET button. The lamp should turn back on.

If the outlet doesn’t respond during testing, it may be time for replacement or professional inspection.

When to Call a Professional Electrician

Resetting a GFCI outlet is usually a quick DIY fix, but there are times when calling a professional makes sense. You should contact a licensed electrician if:

• The GFCI outlet won’t reset after multiple attempts.
• You smell burning or see scorch marks around the outlet.
• Power is inconsistent or flickers when resetting.
• You have multiple GFCI outlets that trip frequently.
• You’re not sure how the circuit is wired.

At The Electricians, our team of licensed professionals can quickly identify why your outlet won’t reset and safely restore power to your home.

We handle everything from outlet repair and replacement to dedicated circuit upgrades and whole-home electrical inspections.

FAQs About Resetting GFCI Outlets

What if my GFCI outlet won’t reset even after drying it out?

If drying and unplugging devices does not help, the outlet may be faulty or there could be a deeper wiring issue. Avoid using that outlet until an electrician inspects it.

Can I reset a GFCI outlet without power?

No. If there’s no power to the circuit, the GFCI cannot reset. Check your breaker panel first.

Can a GFCI go bad?

Yes. Like any electrical component, GFCIs wear out over time. If yours is more than a decade old, consider replacing it.

How much does it cost to replace a GFCI outlet in Colorado?

Typically between $100 and $200, depending on the complexity and location. Our licensed electricians at The Electricians offer fair, transparent pricing for all outlet services.

Keep Your Home Safe with The Electricians

A GFCI outlet is one of the most important safety devices in your home. Knowing how to reset it—and when to call in the pros—can help keep your family safe from electrical shock and fire risks.

If your GFCI outlet won’t reset or you’re unsure what’s causing the problem, don’t take chances. Contact The Electricians, your trusted Colorado electrical experts, for fast, reliable service.

Schedule a Free Estimate today and let our team keep your home powered safely.