This is a common issue that is usually easy to fix. Locate the “RESET” button (usually the top or middle button, often red). Press it firmly with your thumb until you hear a distinct click.
Follow these troubleshooting steps in order, from easiest to most advanced.
1. The “Hard” Reset (Most Likely Fix)
GFCI buttons can be incredibly stiff.
Locate the “RESET” button (usually the top or middle button, often red).
Press it firmly with your thumb until you hear a distinct click.
Note: If the button pops back out immediately, there is a ground fault (a safety issue) or the outlet is broken. If the button doesn’t click at all (feels loose/mushy), the outlet has no power coming to it (see Step 2 & 3).
2. Check “Upstream” Outlets (The Hidden Switch)
This is the most common reason people assume an outlet is broken when it isn’t. GFCIs are often wired in a “daisy chain,” meaning one GFCI outlet protects several regular outlets or other GFCIs downstream.
The Fix: Check other GFCI outlets in your house, even in different rooms.
Common culprits: Look in the Garage, Basement, Bathrooms, Kitchen, or Outdoor outlets.
If any of those are tripped, they will cut power to your current outlet. Reset them and check your broken outlet again.
3. Check the Circuit Breaker
If the outlet feels “dead” (the Reset button won’t click in), it might not be receiving any electricity to reset itself.
Go to your main electrical panel.
Look for a switch that is OFF or stuck in the middle (tripped) position.
Flip it firmly to OFF, then back to ON.
Also Read : Bell Error 1202 No HSI Configured
4. Test for “End of Life”
GFCI outlets have a lifespan of about 10–15 years. Internal circuitry eventually fails.
Symptoms of a dead unit:
The “Reset” button refuses to stay in, even with nothing plugged into it.
The outlet has power (you confirmed the breaker is on), but the buttons feel non-responsive.
The Solution:
You likely need to buy a new GFCI outlet and replace it.
Summary Troubleshooting Table
Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix |
| Reset button clicks but pops out instantly | Ground Fault or Water | Unplug all devices and try again. If it still pops, the outlet is bad. |
| Reset button doesn’t click (feels mushy) | No Power | Check Circuit Breaker or “Upstream” GFCI in another room. |
| Outlet works, but trips constantly | Overload / Old Outlet | The outlet is likely wearing out and needs replacement. |
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