Press reset firmly
Press the reset button all the way. If it will not stay in, there may be a fault on the circuit or no power reaching the GFCI.
GFCI will not reset, or outlets keep losing power?
GFCI outlets cut power when they sense current leaking, often from moisture or a faulty device. One that will not reset or keeps tripping needs attention. Call 833-877-1717. RepairNowUSA connects the request. An independent electrician does the repair.
Am I in the right place?Yes for a GFCI that will not reset, trips repeatedly, or outlets that are hot, scorched or sparking.
Is this urgent?Urgent if sparking, hot or scorched, or if water is involved. If you see smoke, flames, or sparks that do not stop, leave the building and call 911.
What do I do next?Unplug everything from the GFCI and outlets after it, press RESET once, and call 833-877-1717 if it will not hold.
Outlet warm or dead: outlet not working.
RepairNowUSA editorial review · Last substantively reviewed October 14, 2026 · Review standards
Quick checks
Unplug everything
Unplug devices on the GFCI and any outlets after it, then try reset again. A faulty appliance can trip it.
Check for moisture
Outdoor, bathroom and garage GFCIs often trip from water in boxes or covers. Keep away from wet outlets.
Water and outlets
Never touch electrical equipment while wet or standing in water, and do not open panels or devices that are hot, buzzing, smoking or sparking. If you see smoke, flames, or sparks that do not stop, leave the building and call 911.
Why GFCIs trip
GFCI will not reset
There may be a ground fault, no power from the breaker, or the GFCI itself has failed.
GFCI keeps tripping
Moisture, a faulty appliance or damaged wiring can cause repeated trips.
Dead outlets in other rooms
One GFCI can protect outlets in other rooms. Find and reset it. See outlet not working.
Outdoor GFCI problems
Rain, irrigation and damaged covers let water into outdoor outlets. In-use (bubble) covers help keep them dry.
What to have ready when you call
- Property ZIP code and whether it is a home, rental or business
- Where the GFCI is and what stops working
- Whether it will not reset or keeps tripping
- What was plugged in
- Any recent rain, water leak or cleaning near outlets
How GFCI repair usually works
- Test the circuit. The electrician checks for ground faults, moisture and power at the GFCI.
- Find the cause. Faulty appliances, wet boxes and damaged wiring are identified.
- Replace the device. Failed GFCIs are replaced and wired to protect the right outlets.
- Weatherproof. Outdoor outlets get proper covers and boxes to keep water out.
GFCI protection is required in many wet locations, such as bathrooms, kitchens, garages and outdoors. Do not replace a GFCI with a regular outlet.
What happens when you call RepairNowUSA
- Describe what is happening in plain words and give the property ZIP code. You do not need to know which trade to ask for.
- RepairNowUSA checks for a participating independent provider who handles GFCI and outlet repair in that area.
- If one is available, you are connected. The provider confirms timing, access, scope and price with you before any work.
- The provider, not RepairNowUSA, diagnoses and performs the repair.
RepairNowUSA is a referral and connection service. Provider availability and response times vary by location, time and demand, and are not guaranteed. Before you approve work, ask what was found, the price, the timing and what is not included.
Call 833-877-1717GFCI questions
Why will my GFCI not reset?
There may be a ground fault on the circuit, no power reaching it, or the device has failed.
How often should GFCIs be tested?
Manufacturers commonly recommend pressing test and reset monthly to confirm the GFCI still works.
Why does my GFCI trip when it rains?
Water is getting into an outdoor outlet, box or wiring. Keep away and have it repaired and weatherproofed.
Can a GFCI wear out?
Yes. GFCIs can fail over time. If test and reset do not work, it should be replaced.
Can I call at night?
Yes. You can call 833-877-1717 at any time, including nights, weekends and holidays. Whether an independent provider can come out right away depends on your ZIP code, the time and provider capacity, so availability is not guaranteed.
Authoritative references
These public sources give general safety context. They do not replace an on-site evaluation, and RepairNowUSA does not perform the work.