How to Replace a GFI That Does Not Work

I’m replacing a GFI outlet that did not work. Now the replacement also does not work: Wiring instructions and photo that show how GFI Outlets are wired.

Replacing a GFI Outlet
[ad#block]Electrical Wiring Question: I’m replacing a GFI outlet that did not work. Now the replacement also does not work. One of the hot wires is not hot. What can I do?

This home electrical repairs question came from: Charles, from North Augusta, South Carolina.

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your Electrical Troubleshooting Question Charles.

How to Wire a GFI Outlet

GFI Outlet Testing and Replacement

• A GFI outlet may not be working either because the circuit is not functioning or because the GFI outlet is faulty and needs to be replaced.
• Before replacing the GFI outlet it would be good to identify the circuit and make sure it is supplying the correct power to the GFI outlet location.
• When replacing the GFI outlet make sure the wires and placement has been identified otherwise the GFI will not work properly.

Example: Here are wiring instructions and photo that show how GFI Outlets are wired:

The following resources show several examples of wiring GFI Outlets:

• How to Wire GFI Outlets
  GFCI and GFI Wiring Diagrams
• The features and benefits of GFCI outlets and receptacles will give you a clear understanding of the importance why these safety devices are required by code to help protect you and your family against accidental electrical shock hazards.
  
  GFCI Wiring
  This list of articles will help you learn about the features and benefits provided by GFI and GFCI Receptacles and how they are wired.
• Guide to Home Electrical Wire
  

• Electrical Wire for the Home

• Complete listing of electrical wire types and parts used for home projects with electrical code information serves as selection guidelines.

The following may also be helpful for you:

Dave's Guide to Home Electrical Wiring: » You Can Avoid Costly Mistakes! « Here's How to Do It: Wire It Right with the help of my Illustrated Wiring Book Great for any Home Wiring Project. Complete Guide to Home Electrical Wiring Perfect for Homeowners, Students, Handyman, Handy Women, and Electricians Includes: Wiring GFCI Outlets Wiring Home Electric Circuits 120 Volt and 240 Volt Outlet Circuits Wiring Light Switches Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Electric Range Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Dryer Cord and Dryer Outlet How to Troubleshoot and Repair Electrical Wiring Wiring Methods for Upgrading Electrical Wiring NEC Codes for Home Electrical Wiring ....and much more. Learn more about Home Electrical Wiring with my Online Video Course: Basic Home Electrical Wiring by Example

Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.

Electrical Tips to Help You Wire it Right The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wires! The Non-Contact Electrical Tester This is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use. The Quickest Way to Check for Faulty Electrical Wiring! The Plug-In Outlet Tester This is the first tool I grab to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring. This popular tester is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring. It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included Tests standard 3-wire outlets UL Listed Light indicates if wiring is incorrect Very handy and easy to use. Strip Off Wire Insulation without Nicking and Damaging the Electric Wire! The Wire Stripper and Wire Cutter My absolute favorite wire stripping tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and this is the tool I use to safely strip electrical wires. This handy tool has multiple uses: The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation. The end of the tool can be used to grip and bend wire which is handy for attaching wire onto the screw terminals of switches and outlets.. The wire stripper will work on both solid and stranded wire. This tool is Very Handy and Easy to Use.

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