IQHab › United States › Electrical › Outlet Not Working — What To Check
Outlet not working
A dead outlet is usually a simple fix. Here's what to check.
Likely causes
| Cause | Likelihood | Severity | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tripped breaker | high | Low | $0–$50 |
| GFCI tripped | high | Low | $0–$50 |
| Loose wire | medium | Medium | $75–$250 |
| Dead outlet | low | Low | $100–$200 |
Safe checks you can do
- Check the breaker and reset it.
- Reset any GFCI outlets on the circuit.
- Test the outlet with a lamp or tester.
Emergency signals
- Burning smell
- Sparking
- Scorch marks
Next action
Reset the breaker and any GFCI first. If the outlet is still dead, call an electrician.