Electrical Outlet Not Working
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Quick answer: This Old House says a tripped breaker is the most common reason for a dead outlet, especially when several outlets in one area go out. Rule out the device you plugged in, reset any tripped breaker, then look for a tripped GFCI that may protect that outlet from elsewhere.
⚠ Stop and call a licensed electrician if:
- Plugging in devices causes sparks or flickers — the outlet needs replacing immediately (This Old House).
- Cracks or burn marks on the outlet (This Old House).
- Warm or discolored wall plates, burning odor, or crackling, sizzling or buzzing from outlets (ESFI).
- A mild shock or tingle from the outlet (ESFI).
Safe checks: easiest & free first
- Try a different deviceFREE · 1 min
Plug in a lamp or phone charger. Worn plugs with bent prongs or frayed cords can be the real problem (This Old House). - Check for a tripped breakerFREE · 5 min
Most common cause (This Old House). A tripped breaker may sit near the middle position; unplug loads, then push it fully OFF and back ON (ESFI). Don’t open the panel. See our tripped breaker guide. - Find and reset the GFCIFREE · 5 min
A tripped GFCI cuts power to what’s plugged in (This Old House). One GFCI can protect other outlets downstream, and GFCIs can be hidden in less obvious places, such as behind furniture (This Old House). Press TEST, then RESET. Won’t reset? See GFCI won’t reset. - Still dead? Call an electricianCALL A PRO
Loose or frayed wires can cause power loss and sometimes flickering lights (This Old House) — wiring work is for a licensed electrician.
Parts to check
| Item | Why | |
|---|---|---|
| GFCI / receptacle tester | This Old House: a GFCI tester can check whether an outlet is protected by an upstream GFCI | Check price [PLACEHOLDER – no affiliate link] |
A plug-in tester only checks; leave any outlet replacement or wiring to a licensed electrician.