Moderate Risk

Outlets Not Working

Dead outlets are usually caused by a tripped breaker, tripped GFCI outlet, loose wiring connection, or a failed outlet. Check your breaker panel and nearby GFCI outlets first. If those aren't the issue, call a licensed electrician.

Having outlets that suddenly stop working is frustrating — and sometimes concerning. While the fix is often as simple as resetting a tripped GFCI outlet, dead outlets can also indicate wiring problems that need professional attention.

At Ergon Electric, we diagnose and repair dead outlets quickly using professional testing equipment. We identify the root cause — not just the symptom — to prevent the problem from recurring.

Possible Causes

Tripped GFCI outlet

Most Common

A GFCI outlet elsewhere on the circuit has tripped, killing power to downstream outlets. Find and reset the GFCI.

Tripped circuit breaker

Common

The breaker controlling those outlets has tripped. Check your panel for a breaker in the middle (tripped) position.

Loose wire connection

Common

A wire has loosened at the outlet, switch, or junction box upstream on the circuit.

Failed outlet/receptacle

Moderate

The outlet itself has failed internally. Common in older outlets that have been used heavily.

Backstab wiring failure

Moderate

Outlets wired using push-in 'backstab' connections (instead of screw terminals) are prone to loosening and failure.

Damaged wiring

Less Common

A nail, screw, or rodent has damaged the wiring inside the wall, breaking the circuit.

What You Can Check

1Check your electrical panel for any tripped breakers — look for breakers in the middle position

2Look for GFCI outlets in the kitchen, bathroom, garage, and exterior — press the RESET button on each

3Test the dead outlets with a known-working device (phone charger, lamp)

4Check if a wall switch controls the outlet (some outlets are switch-controlled)

5If no breakers are tripped and no GFCI resets fix it, call a licensed electrician

Call a Pro When You See

No tripped breakers or GFCI outlets explain the dead outlets

The outlet is warm, discolored, or has a burning smell

Multiple outlets on different circuits stop working simultaneously

Resetting the breaker or GFCI doesn't restore power

You notice sparking when plugging in devices

Get a Free Diagnosis (203) 945-7181

Safety Warnings

Never insert objects into outlets to test them

Don't attempt to open or repair outlets yourself if you're not experienced

A warm or discolored outlet is a fire hazard — stop using it immediately

If you smell burning, turn off the circuit breaker and call an electrician

Typical Cost

$100–$300 for outlet replacement. Wiring repairs: $200–$600.

Get Your Free Estimate

Related Services

Residential Electrical Service

From $150

Electrical Inspections

From $150

Frequently Asked Questions

This usually means a tripped GFCI outlet or breaker controls those outlets. Check all GFCI outlets (kitchen, bath, garage) and your breaker panel.

A simple outlet replacement costs $100–$200. If the issue is a wiring problem, repairs typically range from $200–$600.

Yes. Loose connections, damaged outlets, and backstab wiring can create arcing and heat that leads to fire. Replace any outlet that's warm, discolored, or sparking.

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