When a GFCI outlet is set up, the immediate assumption is it will work. This is based on all of the connectors being attached and the outlet sitting in the right spot.
Unfortunately, this can create a situation where the GFCI is not working after replacement. You will need to find a solution as soon as possible.
If a GFCI is not working after replacement, check to see if it resets. Do this by pressing the “reset” button on the outlet. If it does not budge, this means the outlet is poorly connected, damaged, or ruined. To fix the issue, remove the outlet, recheck the wiring, and test the outlet again.
In rare cases, the GFCI outlet will get to the stage where it simply does not work. Your only option then is going to be to replace the GFCI outlet again.
This article is going to look at what you should do if a GFCI is not working after replacement. This includes which steps are essential, what to look for, and how to make sure things are done properly.
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How To Fix GFCI Not Working After Replacement
1. Press The “Reset” Button
When learning how to replace a GFCI outlet, you will need to understand the importance of the “reset” button.
This button is placed on the outlet and will be visible as soon as you walk up to the outlet.
You will want to see if this button is pressed or not. You might also see a light if the outlet is working.
If not, this means the reset button is likely not functional and that is going to be why your GFCI outlet is not working after replacement.
So, what is the next step?
You are going to attempt to press the reset button to see if it goes in. This will mean the reset process has commenced and the light will change.
If this does not happen or there is no light, the GFCI outlet is not working. It is likely poorly connected, damaged, or burnt out.
2. Unscrew The GFCI Outlet
You will want to unscrew the GFCI outlet if it is not working.
There will be a plate that is going to be in front of the outlet. Remove this to access the GFCI outlet.
You are then going to begin assessing the inside of the outlet to see if it is burnt and/or damaged. If it is then that is likely the issue.
There can be a surge of power that damages the GFCI outlet even if it is brand-new.
3. Test The Wiring
You will want to test the wiring while inspecting the GFCI outlet.
If the GFCI reset button won’t push in, this means the wiring is likely not connected and/or the outlet itself is damaged.
Assuming the outlet is not connected, you have to take the time to check the wiring. This is common with newly replaced GFCI outlets.
You might have missed a connector and that is the reason there is no power going to the GFCI outlet.
Push the wires in and see if that helps. You will see a noticeable change in how things work as soon as you work on the wires.
4. Secure The GFCI Outlet Again
You will want to secure the GFCI outlet again.
This is an important part of the process as you are going to want to make sure nothing moves out of place during this step.
Otherwise, the GFCI outlet might lose its connection again.
5. Replace The GFCI Outlet Again (If Necessary)
You are now going to have to consider the remaining option when everything has been tried and nothing works.
This can happen.
The best option in a situation such as this is to replace the GFCI outlet and try again. This will allow you to work with a new GFCI outlet.
Final Thoughts
Why is the GFCI not working after replacement?
If a GFCI is not working after replacement, it is likely improperly connected, damaged, or burnt out. To test the outlet, press the reset button and see if the light changes. If it doesn’t, remove the GFCI outlet, check the wiring, and tighten everything before trying again.
This is the most important part of the process when attempting to fix a newly replaced GFCI outlet.
Be patient when you are inspecting the GFCI outlet to see what is wrong. Troubleshooting the problem will take a bit of time but it’s likely due to the wiring. Work your way through the wiring step-by-step until you find the problem.
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