A dead outlet, a breaker that keeps tripping, a GFCI outlet that will not reset. These guides help you find the simple causes first and tell you clearly when to stop and call a licensed electrician.
Common electrical problems
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Breaker Keeps Tripping: Overload, Short Circuit or Ground Fault?
A breaker that trips is doing its job. Learn how to tell an overload from a short or ground fault, what you can safely check,…
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GFCI Outlet Won’t Reset or Keeps Tripping
A GFCI that will not reset may have no power, may be detecting a real ground fault, or may have reached the end of its…
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Outlet Not Working but the Breaker Is Not Tripped
A dead outlet with no tripped breaker is usually a GFCI somewhere else that tripped, a wall switch, or a loose connection. Safe checks and…
Before you start
Never open the breaker panel cover or work on wiring unless you are qualified. A breaker that trips again right after you reset it, a burning smell, buzzing, warm outlets or scorch marks are all reasons to stop and call an electrician.