Dead Outlet Won't Work — Troubleshooting Guide

An outlet that suddenly won’t power anything is usually not a big deal — there are a few simple things that cause it, and most are easy to fix yourself.

Check #1: The GFCI Reset

The most common cause of a dead outlet is a tripped GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) somewhere on the circuit.

What is it? GFCIs are safety outlets with TEST and RESET buttons, required near water (bathrooms, kitchens, garages, outdoors). One GFCI can protect multiple regular outlets downstream.

The Fix:

1. Find all GFCI outlets in your home (bathrooms, kitchen, garage, exterior)
2. Press the RESET button on each one
3. Test your dead outlet

This fixes the problem about 50% of the time.

The tripped GFCI might be nowhere near the dead outlet — it could be in a bathroom protecting a bedroom outlet. Check them all.

Check #2: Circuit Breaker

Head to your electrical panel:

1. Look for any breaker that’s in the middle position (tripped) or OFF
2. Flip it fully OFF, then ON
3. Test the outlet

Note: Some panels have breakers that look ON but have tripped. Flip each one OFF then ON to be sure.

Check #3: The Outlet Itself

Test With Something Else

First, make sure it’s the outlet and not the device:

• Try plugging something else into that outlet
• Try plugging your device into a known-working outlet

Check for Loose Plug

Some outlets wear out and don’t grip plugs firmly. If a plug falls out easily, the outlet may need replacing.

Check for Visible Damage

Look at the outlet:

• Scorch marks or discoloration = call an electrician
• Cracked or broken faceplate = should still work but replace the cover
• Warm to touch = call an electrician immediately

Deeper Troubleshooting

If the simple checks don’t help:

Check Upstream Outlets

Outlets are often wired in series (“daisy chained”). A loose connection upstream can kill everything downstream.

Test other outlets in the same room or on the same wall. If multiple are dead, the problem is at the first dead outlet in the chain.

Check Connections (With Power OFF)

If you’re comfortable with electrical work:

1. Turn OFF the breaker for that circuit
2. Verify power is off with a non-contact voltage tester
3. Remove the outlet cover and outlet
4. Check that all wires are securely connected
5. Look for burnt or damaged wires
6. Tighten any loose connections
7. Reinstall and restore power

Stop if you see damage or burning — that needs a professional.

When to Call an Electrician

• You see scorch marks, burning smell, or damage
• Multiple outlets on different circuits are dead
• Breaker trips repeatedly
• You’re not comfortable working with electrical
• Connections look fine but outlet still doesn’t work
• Old wiring (pre-1970s, especially aluminum)

Cost: $75-200 for outlet diagnosis and repair.

The Bottom Line

Dead outlet? Push RESET on every GFCI in your house first. Check the breaker second. That solves most cases.

If those don’t work and you’re comfortable checking connections, turn off the breaker and look for loose wires. Anything beyond that — or any signs of damage — is electrician territory.