As we mentioned in a previous post, ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets monitor electrical current and quickly cut off power—or trip—when they detect or sense a surge or imbalance of electricity. Therefore, these outlets protect people from electrical shock and reduce the risk of an electrical fire, which is why they must be installed around the home, specifically in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and other potentially moist or wet locations.
GFCI outlets can look different. However, they all share two distinguishing features: a reset button and a test button.
How to Reset a GFCI Outlet
If you are experiencing a power outage to some outlets in your home or light fixtures, you could reset your GFCI outlet. All you need to do is simply push the “reset” button, which should restore power to that outlet and any other connected outlets in the area. If that doesn’t work, you may need to reset the breaker on the main panel.
How to Test a GFCI Outlet
To check if your GFCI outlet is working correctly, here are several steps you must follow:
- Plug in a small lamp or light and turn it on.
- Press the “test” button. The lamp or light should turn off. If the lamp or light remains on, then there might be a defect with your outlet, which needs to be inspected by a professional electrician.
- Press the “rest” button. The lamp or light should turn back on. If the lamp or light doesn’t turn on, this also indicates a potential defect.
Never press down and hold the “reset” button. It is recommended to test GFCI outlets once every month.
If there is an issue with the GFCI outlets in your home, contact our Tempe electrician from Redline Electric & Solar today at (480) 906-4394 and schedule an appointment. We are available 24/7 for any electrical emergencies!
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