How to Reset an Outdoor GFCI Outlet

Resetting a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet is a fairly simple process that can often resolve issues with an outdoor outlet that has tripped and will not provide power. A GFCI outlet is an essential safety device designed to prevent electric shock by detecting abnormal current flows like a ground fault or arc fault. It protects users from electrocution when using electrical devices outdoors where exposure to moisture is more likely. When installed properly, a GFCI outlet can cut off power rapidly if a ground fault is detected, preventing serious injury. Knowing how to reset a tripped GFCI outlet can get your outdoor outlet working again quickly.

What is a GFCI Outlet?

A GFCI, or ground fault circuit interrupter outlet, is a special type of electrical outlet designed to prevent electrocution and shock hazards. GFCIs function by constantly monitoring the flow of electric current through a circuit and detecting any imbalance between the hot and neutral wires.

Some key things to know about GFCI outlets:

They contain a built-in breaker that quickly cuts off power when an imbalance is detected to prevent a ground fault from causing injury. This helps protect against electric shock.
They are required by code for installation in areas with higher risk of electric shock such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and outdoor receptacles.
They can be installed at the outlet or breaker box to provide broad protection along a branch circuit.
A GFCI outlet has a “Test” and “Reset” button that allow you to check it is functioning and to reset the breaker after it trips.
They should be tested monthly to confirm they are working properly and will trip when a ground fault occurs.
A tripped GFCI outlet will shut off power to the outlet until it is reset. Resetting is quick and easy in most cases.

Why Do GFCI Outlets Trip?

There are a few common reasons why a GFCI outlet may suddenly trip or stop providing power:

Moisture or Water Exposure: Outdoor GFCI outlets are highly susceptible to water intrusion or moisture which can cause a fault and lead the GFCI to trip. Even rain, irrigation water, or very high humidity levels can lead to a trip.
Overloading the Circuit: Plugging in too many appliances, devices, or high-wattage equipment may exceed the outlet’s amperage rating and cause it to trip the GFCI breaker.
Damaged Wiring: If an animal chews through a wire, connections become loose, or there is a break in the hot or neutral wires it can lead to a fault condition.
Ground Faults: A short-circuit or contact between a hot wire and a ground wire or grounded surface can allow current leakage that trips the GFCI. Common causes include frayed cords and faulty appliances.
Incorrect Wiring: Miswiring during installation or a broken wire inside the GFCI device itself can lead to improper function and unwanted tripping.
Voltage Spikes: Power surges due to lightning strikes or electrical grid issues can sometimes cause GFCIs to trip. Surge protectors can help prevent this.

If an outdoor GFCI outlet is exposed to moisture it will frequently trip as a safety precaution, since water and electricity can be a dangerous combination.

Resetting a tripped GFCI outlet is usually a very quick and simple process. Here are the steps:

1. Locate the Reset Button

The reset button on a GFCI outlet is easy to identify. It will be marked with the word “Reset” and typically colored red or black. It may be on the outlet itself for a receptacle type GFCI, or behind a small access door on the exterior for a breaker type.

The reset button is located right next to the “Test” button on the GFCI. You should hear an audible “click” when resetting the outlet.

2. Check for Causes of the Trip

Before resetting the outlet, check to see if any issues are visible that caused the fault condition. Look for any water incursion, damaged wires, tripped breakers, faulty appliances, or overloaded circuits and resolve these problems first if found.

You want to fix the underlying issue before resetting, otherwise the GFCI may just trip again immediately. Clearing any standing water and unplugging appliances using the outlet is a good first step.

3. Press the Reset Button

With all appearing normal, you can go ahead and press the “Reset” button firmly. Listen for the click.

Many GFCI outlets require the reset button to be held for 1-3 seconds before releasing to complete the reset. Follow any instructions printed on the device.

The GFCI outlet should now be reset, and power restored.

4. Verify Power Restoration

Make sure appliances are now receiving power as expected by plugging them back in and turning them on. Test any installed lights by flipping the switch.

If you still have no power, the GFCI likely requires additional troubleshooting to address a larger issue.

5. Test the GFCI

Before considering the repair complete, test the outlet by pressing the “Test” button briefly. This will trip the breaker mechanism.

Press the Reset button again to restore power one more time. The GFCI outlet should not allow power to flow during the test, then reset normally.

Monthly GFCI Testing

It is important to test GFCIs on a regular basis to confirm they are working properly and able to detect faults and cut off electricity. Manufacturers recommend performing a quick test at least once per month.

Follow this quick one minute monthly testing process:

Reset the GFCI outlet fully before testing.
Press the TEST button firmly until you hear the “click” as it trips. Confirm power cuts out.
Visually inspect the outlet for any signs of damage or discoloration from heat.
Press the RESET button until you hear it click and power is restored.
Run a GFCI test tool if available and confirm the outlet trips properly.

Any failures or abnormalities means it is time to replace the GFCI. Contact an electrician immediately if the GFCI outlet fails the self-test.

Routine testing provides an added level of safety and confidence in the outlet’s ground fault protection. Make it part of a regular facilities maintenance schedule.

Troubleshooting GFCI Outlet Issues

If an outdoor GFCI continues to trip repeatedly even after resetting, or fails the monthly self-test, it likely requires some additional troubleshooting and potentially replacement. Here is an overview of steps to diagnose common issues:

Inspect for visible damage like discoloration or burns that may indicate a bad unit.
Check for water incursion or moisture that may be causing the trip. Ensure the outlet is weatherproofed properly.
Test for loose wiring connections either at the outlet or in the circuit breaker box. Tighten as needed.
Inspect wires for damage or cracks in the insulation which can lead to faults.
Check for overloaded circuits or faulty appliances plugged into the outlet. Unplug or relocate to other circuits.
Test GFCI functionality with a GFCI outlet tester.
Examine outdoor lighting and extension cords for damaged plugs or wiring issues.
Check for ground faults caused by damage to underground wiring from gardening, digging, or animals.
Inspect connections to any downstream outlets that may be tripping the GFCI breaker.
Listen for any arcing or burning smells that can indicate wiring issues.

If problems persist after thorough troubleshooting and correcting any issues, replacement of the faulty GFCI outlet is likely the best option.

Replacing an Outdoor GFCI Outlet

When an outdoor GFCI outlet cannot be fixed through resetting and troubleshooting, replacement of the defective unit will be required. Follow these guidelines:

Turn Off Power

Locate the breaker controlling the GFCI outlet in the main circuit breaker panel, and switch it to the fully OFF position before doing any work. Use a contactless voltage tester to confirm power is disconnected.

Remove Old GFCI

Remove the faceplate cover and mounting screws to access the wiring connections. Carefully detach the hot, neutral, and ground wires using needle nose pliers or a screwdriver. Remove the outlet fully from the electrical box when it is disconnected.

Install New GFCI

Connect the wires to the matching hot, neutral, and ground screw terminals on the new GFCI using a screwdriver. Follow the printed wiring diagram. Secure the outlet into the box and install the cover plate.

Restore Power

With the new GFCI outlet fully wired and mounted, turn the controlling breaker back ON. Check for proper function by pressing the “Test” and “Reset” buttons.

Carefully follow manufacturer instructions when replacing a defective GFCI. Consider hiring an electrician if you are unsure of any wiring steps when changing out an outlet.

Preventing Outdoor GFCI Trips

To help minimize nuisance tripping of exterior GFCI outlets, consider these proactive measures:

Test regularly to find failing GFCIs before they interrupt power unexpectedly.
Install outdoor outlet covers to protect from moisture intrusion that can cause faults.
Caulk around receptacles to prevent water ingress into the electrical box.
Use outdoor extension cords and appliances rated for exterior use with undamaged plugs. Avoid running cords through standing water.
Ensure outdoor lights have weatherproof fixtures and wiring without corrosion.
Avoid overloading circuits with too many plugged in devices.
Turn off sprinkler systems to keep water spray away from outlets.
Install GFCI protected circuits at the circuit breaker box instead of individual outlets.
Consider having a licensed electrician add a weatherproof in-use outdoor receptacle cover over the existing GFCI outlet if it is frequently exposed to rain or irrigation water.

Taking proactive precautions can minimize headaches from perennial GFCI trips on outdoor outlets. But occasionally trips are inevitable due to rain or moisture. Having confidence in resetting the outlets makes resolving these nuisance GFCI trips a breeze.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a GFCI outlet and a regular outlet?

A GFCI outlet contains a ground fault circuit interrupter built in that can rapidly cut off electricity if a fault such as a ground leak is detected to prevent shock or electrocution. A regular outlet does not have this safety mechanism.

Why does my outdoor GFCI outlet trip during rain?

Rain, sprinklers, or high humidity can cause moisture to reach the internal wiring which trips the GFCI as a protective measure since water and electricity are a dangerous combination.

Can I replace a regular outlet with a GFCI?

Yes, a standard outlet can be replaced with a GFCI outlet easily by connecting the wires to the LINE terminals on the GFCI. Just be sure to disconnect power at the breaker first.

Why does my GFCI outlet trip with nothing plugged in?

If a GFCI trips when nothing is plugged in, it likely indicates a ground fault in the wiring from moisture or damage. Inspect connections and have an electrician investigate.

Why does my GFCI outlet trip immediately when reset?

Fast tripping on reset typically means there is still an ongoing ground fault or wiring issue. Thoroughly troubleshoot the circuit and outlet before resetting again.

Do outdoor outlets need to be GFCI protected?

Yes, the National Electric Code requires GFCI protection on all outdoor outlets, since exposure to water is more likely. Outdoor outlets should be protected with GFCI breakers or receptacles.

Can I install an outdoor GFCI outlet myself?

If comfortable working with electrical wiring, it is possible for many homeowners to safely install a new outdoor GFCI outlet by following instructions. Consult with an electrician if unsure.

Does code require weatherproof covers on outdoor outlets?

While not required in all areas, it is highly recommended to install weatherproof covers over any outdoor electrical boxes and receptacles when possible as an extra safety precaution.

Conclusion

Resetting tripped GFCI outlets is a common minor nuisance that comes with owning a home, especially in outdoor areas exposed to moisture. Understanding the purpose of a GFCI, how it works, and the proper resetting process allows you to quickly restore power when needed. Regularly testing GFCIs can help catch defects before they lead to a fault. Proper weatherproofing of outdoor outlets will minimize unwanted trips. If troubleshooting does not solve tripping issues, replacing old or damaged GFCIs can get outdoor receptacles working reliably again. With a few simple precautions, home safety around water and your outdoor power needs can stay uninterrupted.