Dealing with a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) or GFI (Ground Fault Interrupter) that refuses to reset can be both frustrating and concerning.
The GFCI is a crucial safety device designed to protect us from electrical shocks and hazards, so addressing any issues is essential.
This article will explore 12 straightforward and effective ways to fix a GFCI that won’t reset.
Drawing insights from reliable sources and expert advice, we have compiled a comprehensive list of fixes for the common causes behind a non-responsive GFCI.
From tripped circuit breakers to wiring problems, each solution is designed to address a specific issue.
However, please remember that working with electrical components can be dangerous, so always prioritize safety.
Before attempting any fixes, turn off the power to the affected circuit at the main electrical panel.
It is essential to see an experienced electrician if you are unsure or uncomfortable performing electrical operations.
Why Won’t GFCI Reset?
There are several reasons why a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) may not reset.
Here are the potential causes:
1. Insufficient Power Supply
If the GFCI electrical outlet or breaker is not receiving adequate power, it may fail to reset.
This can occur due to low voltage, power interruptions or faulty wiring.
Checking the power supply and ensuring proper voltage levels are essential to resolve this cause.
2. Damaged GFCI Switch
A GFCI switch can become damaged over time due to wear and tear, electrical surges, or physical damage.
This can prevent it from properly resetting.
Inspecting the switch for signs of damage, such as burnt marks or loose connections and replacing it if necessary, can help resolve this issue.
3. Incorrect Connection
If the GFCI switch is not correctly wired or installed, it may fail to reset.
This can happen if the connections are loose, the wiring needs to be corrected or the installation was done improperly.
Verifying the wiring connections and ensuring they comply with the manufacturer’s instructions is crucial to address this cause.
4. Tripped Main Circuit Breaker
When the main circuit breaker is tripped or turned off, it cuts power to the GFCI outlets.
As a result, the GFCI won’t reset until the main breaker is reset.
Locating the main electrical panel, checking for a tripped breaker and then turning it back on, if necessary, can resolve this issue.
5. Ground Fault in the Circuit
A ground fault along the branch circuit can cause the GFCI to trip repeatedly and prevent it from resetting.
Ground faults occur when electrical current follows an unintended path to the ground, often caused by incorrect wiring or damaged cords.
In such cases, it is recommended to engage a licensed electrician to identify and fix the ground fault issue.
6. Lack of Power Supply to the Outlet
Power surges or other electrical problems can lead to the circuit breaker cutting off the power supply to the GFCI outlet.
In such situations, the GFCI won’t reset until power is restored.
Identifying and rectifying the power interruption’s cause, such as resetting the circuit breaker or addressing any electrical faults, can help resolve this cause.
7. Loose or Bad Connections
Loose or faulty connections within the GFCI outlet can prevent it from resetting.
This can occur if the electrical wires are not securely connected or if the wire connectors are damaged.
Checking for loose wires, ensuring proper tightening of connections and replacing any damaged wire connectors can resolve this issue.
8. Faulty or Dead GFCI Outlet
In rare cases, the GFCI outlet itself may be defective or non-functional, leading to the failure to reset.
This can happen due to internal electrical component failures or extensive wear and tear.
If all other troubleshooting steps have been followed and the GFCI outlet continues to fail to reset, replacing the dead outlet with a new one is recommended.
9. Ground Fault Wiring Issue
Incorrect wiring or damaged cords can cause ground faults along the branch circuit, preventing the GFCI from resetting.
Ensuring proper wiring connections, inspecting cords for damages or cuts, and addressing wiring issues can help resolve this cause.
10. Reverse Line and Load
If the line and load connections in the GFCI outlet are reversed, it can interfere with the reset function.
Verifying the correct wiring connections and ensuring the line and load terminals are properly identified and connected can resolve this issue.
How to Fix a GFCI that Won’t Reset
If you’re having trouble resetting a GFCI, you can take a few steps to troubleshoot and fix the issue.
Here’s what you can do:
1. Check the Power Supply
Ensure that the GFCI outlet receives a stable power supply.
If the incoming power is low or there is a power outage, it can prevent the GFCI from resetting.
Verify that there are no issues with the electrical supply, such as tripped breakers or blown fuses.
If necessary, address any power supply problems, restore power and stabilize the voltage to enable the GFCI reset.
2. Inspect the GFCI Switch
Carefully examine the GFCI switch for any visible signs of damage, such as burn marks, discoloration, or loose connections.
If the switch is damaged, it can prevent the GFCI from resetting.
In such cases, the switch may need to be replaced.
Ensure that the connections to the switch are secure and properly tightened.
Test the switch’s functionality to ensure it is operating correctly and replace it if necessary.
3. Verify the Wiring Connections
Double-check the wiring connections at the GFCI outlet.
Incorrect or loose connections can hinder the reset function.
Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or a wiring diagram specific to your GFCI outlet model to ensure the wiring is correct.
If any connections are loose, tighten them properly.
If the wiring is incorrect, rearrange the connections according to the correct configuration to enable the GFCI reset.
4. Reset the Main Circuit Breaker
Locate the main electrical panel and inspect the circuit breakers.
If the main circuit breaker has tripped or turned off, it can cut off power to the GFCI outlet and prevent it from resetting.
Identify the tripped breaker by looking for one that is in the “off” position or between the “on” and “off” positions.
To reset it, switch the breaker to the “off” position and back to the “on” position.
This will restore power to the GFCI outlet and allow for resetting.
5. Address Ground Faults
Ground faults in the branch circuit can cause the GFCI to trip repeatedly and hinder the reset function.
Ground faults occur when an unintended electrical connection occurs between the hot ground wire and a grounded element.
Engage a qualified electrician to inspect the wiring and identify the cause of the ground fault.
The electrician will make the necessary repairs, which may involve replacing damaged wiring, correcting faulty connections or installing additional grounding components to enable the GFCI reset.
6. Restore the Power Supply to the Outlet
If the GFCI outlet is not receiving power, it won’t be able to reset.
Inspect the main electrical panel for any blown fuses.
If a fuse is blown, replace it with the appropriate rating.
Ensure power is restored to the GFCI outlet by addressing any electrical panel or supply issues.
Following safety precautions and consulting a professional electrician if needed is essential.
7. Check for Loose or Faulty Connections
Examine the GFCI outlet for any loose or faulty connections.
Use a screwdriver to tighten the wire terminals if you find any loose wires.
Ensure that all connections are secure and tight.
If the wire connectors are damaged or worn out, replace them with new ones.
Properly securing the connections and using reliable wire connectors will help maintain a stable electrical connection and facilitate the GFCI reset.
8. Replace a Faulty GFCI Outlet
If all troubleshooting steps have been followed and the GFCI outlet fails to reset, it may be defective or non-functional.
Replacing the faulty outlet with a new one is recommended in such cases.
To replace the GFCI outlet, turn off the power to the circuit at the main electrical panel.
Carefully remove the cover plate and unscrew the outlet from the electrical box.
Disconnect the wires from the old outlet and connect them to the corresponding terminals on the new GFCI outlet.
Secure the outlet in the electrical box, attach the cover plate and restore power.
Test the new GFCI outlet to ensure it resets properly.
9. Rectify Ground Fault Wiring Issues
Ground faults can occur when there are incorrect wiring connections or damaged cords and prevent the GFCI from resetting.
To rectify ground faulty wiring issues, start by turning off the power to the circuit at the main electrical panel.
Carefully inspect the wiring connections at the GFCI outlet, ensuring that all wires are securely attached to the correct terminals.
Look for any signs of damage, such as frayed or exposed wires, and replace them if necessary.
If there are any wiring mistakes, correct them by rewiring the connections according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Once the wiring is verified and any damaged cords are replaced, restore power and attempt to reset the GFCI outlet.
10. Confirm Correct Line and Load Connections
GFCI outlets have line and load terminals that serve different purposes.
The line terminals connect to the incoming power source, while the load terminals protect downstream outlets.
If the line and load connections are reversed, it can interfere with the reset function of the GFCI outlet.
To confirm the correct line and load connections, turn off the power to the circuit at the main electrical panel.
Remove the cover plate of the GFCI outlet and inspect the wiring.
Identify the line and load terminals as indicated on the outlet.
Ensure that the wires from the power source are connected to the line terminals and that the wires leading to other outlets are connected to the load terminals.
If the connections are reversed, carefully switch them to their appropriate terminals.
Once the wiring is corrected, reattach the cover plate, restore power and attempt to reset the GFCI outlet.
11. Replace or Repair the Circuit Breaker
A faulty circuit breaker can sometimes prevent a GFCI from resetting.
If you have followed all the troubleshooting steps, checked the wiring connections and confirmed that the GFCI outlet is functioning correctly, but it still won’t reset, the issue may lie with the circuit breaker.
Engage a qualified electrician to assess the circuit breaker and determine if it needs replacement or repair.
The electrician will safely handle the circuit breaker replacement process, ensuring that the new breaker is compatible with the electrical panel and meets the required specifications.
12. Consult a Qualified Electrician
If all attempts to reset the GFCI have failed, and you are unsure about the underlying cause or uncomfortable performing further troubleshooting, you should seek assistance from a qualified electrician.
Electricians have the expertise to diagnose complex electrical issues and ensure proper repairs and replacements.
They can identify any underlying wiring problems, ground faults or electrical issues impeding the GFCI reset.
Hiring a professional ensures that the troubleshooting is done safely and accurately.
David Kessler is a CSLB licensed contractor with over 25 years of experience. He is specialized in home building, construction, and electrical works; he also has a keen eye for interior design and, over the years, has collaborated with various architects.
