When your outlet stops working, your first instinct might be to grab the phone and call for help. But hold up—you might be able to fix it yourself in just a few minutes.
In the United States, over 70 million GFCI outlets are installed in homes, keeping families safe from electrical shock. But here’s the thing: most people aren’t sure how to reset them when something trips.
At NOLA Electric, we believe knowledge is power. So, before you spend money on a service call, let’s walk through a few quick troubleshooting steps that could save you the hassle.
Start With the Obvious First
It may sound simple, but double-check this: is something plugged in properly? Sometimes, plugs work themselves loose, especially if the outlet is behind furniture or appliances that get bumped around.
Test the outlet with another device—like a phone charger or lamp—just to be sure it’s not the device itself causing the problem.
Check for Other Dead Outlets Nearby
If the outlet not working is just one of several that seem dead, they could be connected to the same circuit. Walk around the room (and nearby rooms) to see if other outlets or lights are out too. This could mean you’re dealing with a tripped breaker or a GFCI issue.
Reset the GFCI Outlet First
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI outlets) are often the hidden culprit when an outlet suddenly goes quiet. These outlets are typically found in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, basements, and outdoor spaces—anywhere moisture might be a factor.
Look for an outlet with two small buttons on it labeled “RESET” and “TEST.” If you find one, press the RESET button firmly. You might hear a click—that’s a good sign.
Here’s the trick: the outlet not working might not be the one with the reset button. GFCIs can control multiple outlets downstream, so always check nearby outlets even if they look like regular ones.
Pro Tip from the NOLA Electric Team:
If you find several GFCI outlets, reset all of them. It’s quick, and it rules out the most common cause of the problem.
Head to the Breaker Box
If resetting the GFCI doesn’t do the trick, it’s time to visit your electrical panel. Look for any breakers that are switched halfway between ON and OFF—that usually means they’ve tripped.
Flip the breaker fully OFF, then back ON again. After that, test the outlet one more time.
If everything is back to normal—great! If not, keep reading.
Inspect for Visible Damage
Scan the outlet for any signs of trouble like:
- Burn marks
- Buzzing sounds
- A plastic or burning smell
If you notice any of these, stop here. Don’t keep troubleshooting—it’s time to call in a licensed electrician.
At NOLA Electric, safety comes first. If you’re ever unsure, we’re here to help with reliable, expert electrical repair and diagnostics.
When It’s Time to Call the Pros
If your outlet still isn’t working after these steps, or if resetting the GFCI and breakers didn’t solve the issue, that’s your signal to reach out—especially if:
- Multiple outlets in the home aren’t working
- You hear buzzing, crackling, or smell something burning
- Lights are flickering along with the outlet problem
- The breaker keeps tripping even after a reset
These could be signs of deeper electrical issues that need professional attention.
Stay Safe, Stay Informed With NOLA Electric
We get it—electrical problems are frustrating. But jumping straight to an electrician isn’t always the answer. A little home troubleshooting can save time, money, and give you peace of mind.
Still stuck? Don’t sweat it. The team at NOLA Electric is here to power what matters—safely and efficiently. Whether you need outlet repair and replacement, panel upgrades, or wiring inspections, we’re committed to providing smart solutions with integrity and precision.
Ready to Schedule a Service or Need Advice?
Phone: (504) 766 9210
Email: bp@nolaelectricco.com
Address: 410 Bonita Drive, Chalmette, Louisiana 70043, United States
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM