How to Reset a GFCI Outlet [3 Steps] | In Charge Electric
Learn how to reset a GFCI outlet in 3 simple steps. Keep your space safe and get the power back on swiftly using these quick troubleshooting tips!
Yes, you can reset a GFCI circuit breaker yourself, but it's important to do it safely and correctly. A GFCI, or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter, is a crucial safety device designed to protect you from electrical shock. When a GFCI trips, it means it has detected an imbalance in the electrical current, which could indicate a dangerous situation.
When a GFCI trips, the “RESET” button will often pop out, or the outlet may appear dead, meaning no power is flowing to it or any connected outlets on the same circuit. A GFCI circuit breaker looks similar to a standard circuit breaker but will also have “TEST” and “RESET” buttons, usually on the face of the breaker itself in your electrical panel.
Plug the rest of your devices into the outlets on the circuit one at a time so you don't overload the circuit. If your GFCI outlet trips again and you lose power to the outlets, you may be plugging too many things into the circuit. If nothing turns on when you plug it in, then you may have to reset the breaker.
A GFCI is a type of circuit breaker or outlet that monitors the amount of current flowing through a circuit. It compares the amount of electricity going into the appliance with the amount coming back out. If there's a difference of as little as 5 milliamperes, the GFCI will instantly shut off the power.
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