How to reset a tripped breaker or GFCI outlet

Teach: How to reset a tripped breaker or GFCI outlet

What to say

When the kitchen goes dark mid-toast, unplug what was running, find the breaker sitting in the middle or off position, push it fully off, then firmly back on. A bathroom or kitchen outlet with test and reset buttons is a GFCI: press reset. If either trips again straight away, stop and call an electrician.

What to show, in order

1. Switch off or unplug the appliances that were running when the power went out on that circuit.
2. Open the panel door, usually in a basement, garage, utility closet or hallway, without removing any cover screws.
3. Look for the breaker handle that sits out of line with the others, in the middle or at off.
4. Push that handle firmly over to the off side first, then back to on; a tripped breaker will not reset straight from the middle.
5. For a dead outlet near water, look for a GFCI outlet with test and reset buttons, possibly in another room on the same circuit, and press reset.
6. Plug things back in one at a time to see which one trips it.
7. Label the panel as you learn which breaker controls which rooms, and add it to your readiness card.

When to stop and call a professional

• The breaker or GFCI trips again as soon as you reset it, with everything unplugged.
• You smell burning, see scorch marks, hear buzzing, or an outlet or switch feels warm.
• The breaker will not stay on, or the panel is hot, wet or rusty.
• Anything behind an outlet plate, switch plate or panel cover needs work: that is a licensed electrician's job.

The check question

Ask: Why push a tripped breaker all the way off before on? Answer: It resets the trip mechanism, which will not reset from the middle

From EveryManKnows. General information, not professional advice.