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Why Won’t My GFI Outlet Reset?

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Electrical Question from Joe about Repairing GFCI Electrical Wiring
Background: Joe, a Homeowner from Chester Heights, PA.

Question: Hi, I cut the extension cord while trimming the hedges, now 2 GFIs won’t reset, one outside on front of house, the other outside on back of house. I replaced both GFIs and still have the same problem.
What else can I check? None of the breakers in the panel were tripped. I did turn each one off then back on. Still have no power to GFIs

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Joe. Make sure all cords are unplugged from the affected circuit. Turn off the power to the circuit. Remove one of the GFIs and insulate the wiring. Remove and inspect the wiring of the other GFI. Make any necessary corrections. Reinstall the GFI. Restore the power to the circuit. Test the GFI Outlet. Repeat the process.
These two GFI outlets should be wired independently of each other.
Fully explained wiring instructions complete with a picture series of an installation and wiring diagrams can be found in the GFCI area here in this website. Just click the Wiring GFCI Receptacles link below.

The Following links will assist you with your electrical question:
Wiring GFCI Receptacles

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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
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FAQs Frequently Asked Questions and Comments

 2 Responses to “Why Won’t My GFI Outlet Reset?”
  1. Greg says:
    December 25, 2014 at 6:48 am

    I have a GFI in the upstairs bathroom that will not reset. I reset the GFI breaker listed on the panel to no avail. The other three GFI’s are working fine. Do I need a new GFI?

    • Dave Rongey says:
      December 29, 2014 at 1:15 pm

      Hi Greg,
      If no devices are plugged into the GFI circuit that may be causing a problem then the GFI that will not reset may need to be replaced. This is often the case as you have described.
      I hope this helps,
      Dave