This one needs a licensed pro
Stop: the GFCI is damaged
A discolored, cracked, warped, warm or smelly GFCI needs replacing by a licensed electrician. Turn its breaker off and leave it off.
Why this happens
Leviton says a GFCI with a discolored, cracked or warped face, loose plugs, or water exposure needs to be replaced. ESFI lists discolored outlets, warm outlets and a burning smell as warning signs.
What to do right now
- If you see smoke or flames, get out, stay out and call 911.
- At the panel, open only the hinged door. Never remove the metal cover behind it; that cover is for electricians. Keep your hands dry and do not stand on a wet floor.
- Switch OFF the breaker that feeds this GFCI. If you cannot tell which it is, call an electrician rather than guessing.
- With the breaker off, unplug anything plugged into it.
- Leave the breaker off and call a licensed electrician.
What to tell the licensed electrician
- What you saw: discoloring, cracking, warping, warmth, loose plugs or a smell.
- Which breaker you turned off and what else lost power.
- Whether the outlet has been wet.
Build the full list: what to tell the licensed electrician.
Start this troubleshooter over
References (every fact above comes from one of these pages)
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