Why Won't My GFCI Reset?

• No power to the GFCI — the breaker upstream is tripped or off
• A real ground fault downstream — an appliance or wet outlet is leaking current to ground
• The line and load wires are reversed — a wiring error, common after DIY replacement
• The GFCI is dead — 10+ years old, or damaged by a surge
• A downstream outlet is miswired — often a neutral crossed with a ground
• Moisture in an outdoor box — dries out and resets after 24 hours in most cases

First, check whether the outlet has power at all — plug in a lamp before pressing RESET. If no power, check the breaker. If power is present but RESET pops back, unplug everything downstream and try again. If it holds, one of the unplugged devices has a fault. If it still won't hold, the GFCI itself is either miswired or dead.

If you've isolated the downstream loads and the GFCI still won't reset, or if you smell anything burning, call a licensed electrician. Miswired GFCIs create a dangerous condition where the outlet appears protected but isn't.

$150–$250 to diagnose and replace or rewire a single GFCI in Orange County.