My Ground Fault Outlets Will Not Reset

How GFCIs Work?

• A ground fault circuit interrupter's job it to quickly turn off the power when it detects an electrical problem. It does this by monitoring the current in both the neutral and hot wires. If it senses an imbalance, it opens the circuit in less than a second, reducing the chances of someone receiving an electrical shock for an extended period.

Short Circuit

• A short circuit is caused when the hot wire comes in contact with either the ground connection or the neutral wire. This creates a connection with little electrical impedance, causing the circuit to draw excessive current. It can occur at any electrical connection in the building or with the electrical appliances themselves. A short circuit in the wires causes the GFCI to open the circuit, thus controlling the over-current.

GFCI Not Resetting

• If the GFCI does not reset it is because there is a short in the electrical system. When you attempt to reset the switch the device detects the lost current and shuts down the power again. Have an electrician correct the problem before attempting to reset the power again. It is possible that the mechanics of the GFCI are broken internally.

Installing GFCIs

• A GFCI can be installed in place of any existing outlet. Once installed it protects all electrical devices downstream of its position in the circuit. Older homes, with ungrounded wiring sometimes install GFCI outlet to provide a layer of protection to their electrical systems. A GFCI doesn't eliminate the electrical shock; it only reduces the amount of time the person is subjected to the electricity.