Electrical Fault CheckHome electrical diagnostics

GFCI reset diagnostic

GFCI dead and won't reset

When the outlet has no power at all, the GFCI has nothing to reset to — the cause is upstream, not the device.

Stop and call a licensed electrician or emergency services now if there's smoke, sparks, a burning smell, heat, shock, or water near the problem. Otherwise it's safe to answer the questions below.

The likely readout

Most likely cause

No incoming power on the LINE side (upstream breaker tripped or a loose line connection)

Ranked by fit to your answers
1
No incoming power on the LINE side (upstream breaker tripped or a loose line connection)
100
2
An upstream GFCI is tripped (one GFCI can feed several outlets that then look dead)
25
SAFE NEXT CHECKConfirm the breaker for this circuit and fully cycle it off then on; verify line-side power with a tester before anything else.
Where to stop. Resetting and plug-in testing are homeowner-safe. Opening the box, checking terminals, or rewiring line/load means live conductors — if you cannot do that safely with the power off at the breaker, stop and call a licensed electrician. Water plus electricity is a shock hazard; do not keep resetting a wet outlet. This is general information, not a quote and not a substitute for a licensed electrician.
NO LINE POWER nothing to reset to panel open / tripped GFCIno power

Not your exact situation? Adjust the answers and re-rank →

What to do next

Try the safe next check above. If it doesn't resolve it, or would mean working on wiring or a panel, stop and call a licensed electrician — don't replace parts on a guess. Open the full tool to change any answer for your exact situation, or try a related check below.

source-governed · verified 2026-06-20

Sources

How this diagnostic works →

Related situations

Electrical Fault Check provides general diagnostic information only. It is not professional advice, not a quote, and not a substitute for a licensed electrician. Do not work on live wiring. If you see smoke, sparks, burning smell, heat, shock, water exposure, or repeated tripping, stop using the circuit and contact a licensed electrician or emergency services as appropriate.