How to Fix an Outlet That Has No Power

Start by checking the circuit breaker and testing the GFCI reset button, then verify connections and test the outlet with a multimeter if basic troubleshooting doesn't restore power.

  1. Reset the Breaker First. Head to your electrical panel and look for any tripped breakers. A tripped breaker will be in the middle position between ON and OFF, or may appear slightly off-center. Firmly push the breaker to the OFF position first, then flip it back to ON. You should hear a definitive click when it engages properly.
  2. Hunt Down Hidden GFCI Resets. Look for any GFCI outlets in bathrooms, kitchens, or outdoor areas that might control your dead outlet. Press the RESET button on any GFCI outlets you find. Even if the GFCI isn't in the same room, it could be protecting downstream outlets. Also check your electrical panel for any GFCI breakers that may have tripped.
  3. Map the Problem Zone. Plug a working lamp or device into outlets near the dead one to determine if the problem affects multiple outlets or just one. This helps identify whether you're dealing with a single outlet failure or a circuit problem affecting several outlets.
  4. Kill Power, Document Everything. Switch off the breaker that controls this outlet. Remove the outlet cover plate with a screwdriver, then unscrew the outlet from the electrical box. Carefully pull the outlet out while noting which wires connect where. Take a photo before disconnecting anything.
  5. Spot Loose or Burned Wires. Examine all wire connections to the outlet. Look for loose wires, burned connections, or wires that have come completely free. Wire nuts should be tight, and wires connected to screws should be snug. If you find loose connections, turn off power again and reconnect them properly.
  6. Measure Voltage at the Source. With power restored and the outlet still removed from the wall, carefully test the incoming wires with a multimeter set to AC voltage. You should read approximately 120 volts between the hot wire (usually black) and neutral wire (usually white). If you get this reading but the outlet still doesn't work, replace the outlet.
  7. Swap in the New Outlet. If the outlet is faulty, replace it with a new one of the same amperage rating. Connect the wires to the same terminals as before: hot wire to the brass screw, neutral to the silver screw, and ground to the green screw. Fold the wires back into the box, screw the outlet in place, and replace the cover plate.