Why Does My GFCI Outlet Keep Tripping?
By Katelynne Shepard
May 08, 2025
Electricity is one of the best modern conveniences — until you plug in your coffee maker at the same time you're running your microwave and everything goes dark. If you look around and see that one of those outlets with the test/reset buttons has a red light, it means your GFCI outlet tripped.
This May Also Interest You: How Much Does Electricity Cost?
What Is a GFCI Outlet?
GFCI stands for ground fault circuit interrupter, and these outlets are common in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms and other areas where they may come into contact with moisture. The outlet detects imbalances in the electrical current and quickly stops power from running to it — and often every outlet down the circuit line — to avoid major issues.
GFCIs are an important safety measure, and they're required by code in many areas to help prevent shocks and electrical fires. You can recognize a GFCI outlet because it has two buttons: test and reset. When the GFCI is working normally, it will have a green light. When it trips, the light turns red. You can test a GFCI by pushing the test button. The light should turn red, and nothing will work when plugged in. Pressing the reset button restores the power again.
What Are Some Reasons That My GFCI Outlet Keeps Tripping?
A GFCI outlet that trips occasionally isn't usually a problem, but if it trips more than a few times within a short timeframe, it's a sign there's a bigger problem. Fortunately, most issues with GFCI outlets are easy to fix yourself.
Moisture Being Detected
If moisture comes into contact with the outlet, such as through a spill or steam from a hot shower, the outlet trips. That means it's doing its job.
Fix: Dry off any surface water and let the outlet dry out for several hours or up to a day or two before attempting to reset it.
The Circuit Is Overloaded
When too many things are plugged into the circuit and drawing power, the outlet will trip. This is similar to how a circuit breaker works in your main electrical panel.
Fix: Identify everything plugged into the circuit the GFCI is on and unplug anything that's unnecessary. If you're using a high-draw item, such as a microwave or vacuum, try running one item at a time to keep the outlet from tripping.
Defective or Worn-Out Ground Fault Receptacle Box
Like everything else, GFCI outlets aren't good forever. Most GFCIs will last 15-25 years before needing to be replaced, but it's also possible to have a defective GFCI that needs to be replaced sooner. The more the GFCI trips, the faster it will wear out. If you had one that was tripping frequently and you fixed the underlying issue, it may be worth replacing it with a new one.
Fix: Replacing a GFCI can be a DIY project if you're moderately handy. The most important thing is to ensure the power is turned off at the breaker before testing the wires with a voltage tester to double-check there isn't power running through them. Then you can replace the outlet, moving one wire at a time from the old GFCI to the new one. Once the wires are back in the junction box and the cover is back on the outlet, you can turn the breaker on and test the new GFCI to see if it's working.
If you're not confident in your electrical skills, having a pro replace a GFCI is best.
More Related Articles:
How Do I Keep My GFCI Outlet From Tripping?
A GFCI tripping repeatedly is a sign there could be a bigger electrical issue. If the tips above didn't fix the problem, it's best to contact an electrician who can evaluate your electrical system. In some cases, it may be a short in the appliance itself, or it could be that your electrical panel is older and can't handle the amount of electricity your household needs.
View Plans in Your Area
Popular


Apr 01, 2024


Apr 26, 2021
Get the latest news, tips and promotional messages, including special offers.