Electrical Troubleshooting Lost Outlet Power
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Common Causes for Lost Power to Outlets and Switches on a GFCI Circuit: Troubleshooting No Power to a Living Room and GFCI, Free Electrical Help, Learn Electric Wiring. © By: Dave Rongey |
Troubleshooting Lost Power to a Living Room
Electrical Question: My living room is the only room in the house without electricity.
- There is no power to the light switches or outlets.
- The GFCI Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter on outside porch was just replaced and there is no power to it either.
- Main breaker box shows power to the 20 amp circuit breaker and from the breaker to living room.
- I had this problem once before but it was the GFCI on the porch that needed to be reset.
Any ideas?
Background: Bob, who is a Handyman in New York.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Bob.
How to Troubleshoot Lost Power to Outlets and Switches
Application: Troubleshooting Lost Electric Power to a Living Room and GFCI Outlet.
Skill Level: Advanced – a Licensed Electrical Contractor should be consulted right away.
Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools, Ammeter and Voltage Tester.
Estimated Time: Depends on age of the home, the condition of the electrical system and available access to electrical components.
Precaution: Electrical troubleshooting of this level is best performed by a licensed electrical contractor who will identify the problem and make the necessary repairs.
Common Causes for Lost Power to Outlets and Switches on a GFCI Circuit
- Checking for a Tripped GFCI Outlet
You mentioned that the GFCI Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter on the outside porch was just replaced and that you had this problem once before, but the problem was that the GFCI on the porch needed to be reset, therefore begin by trying to reset the GFCI outlet located on the porch. - Tripped Circuit Breaker
You mentioned that you have identified the circuit breaker for the living room, so it would be good to switch the circuit breaker all the way into the OFF position, and then back into the ON position. - Circuit Electrical Wiring
Keep in mind that the GFCI outlet on the porch should not control the power inside the living room area. The circuit wiring of the GFCI outlet can be changed so the GFCI protection does not interfere with the living room, you can see more about this as described in the information provided below. - Local Electrical Help
An inspection of your circuit wiring by a local electrician may provide more electrical system advice that could prevent future problems.
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- Electrical Outlets: Lost Power to Room Outlets
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