You can fix this
Likely cause: a tripped GFCI upstream
A GFCI in another spot has tripped and cut power to this outlet. Press RESET on it.
Why this happens
A single GFCI outlet can protect several ordinary outlets further down the same circuit, sometimes in a different room. Family Handyman lists a hidden, tripped GFCI as a common reason an outlet is dead when no breaker has tripped. ESFI notes that GFCIs are required in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, outdoors, basements and crawlspaces, so start your search there.
How to fix it
- With dry hands, press the RESET button on the tripped GFCI firmly until it clicks and stays in.
- Check the dead outlet again with a lamp you know works.
- If it will not reset, unplug everything from that GFCI and the outlets near it and try once more. If it still will not reset, go to the GFCI won't reset guide.
- Once it works, press TEST, then RESET, once a month. CPSC, ESFI and Leviton all recommend a monthly test.
When to stop. If the GFCI will not reset, trips every time you press RESET, or looks discolored or cracked, stop and call a licensed electrician.
If this does not fix it, tell the licensed electrician
- Where the GFCI is and which outlets lost power with it.
- Whether it reset and held, or trips again, and what was plugged in when it tripped.
- Whether the area was wet or it had rained recently.
Build the full list: what to tell the licensed electrician.
Start this troubleshooter over
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