One dead outlet is usually small. Several dead at once usually trace back to one tripped device protecting all of them. Work through these steps in order — most dead-outlet calls end at step one.
Nothing here requires opening an outlet or a panel. If you get to the end of the checklist and the power's still out, call (561) 786-1337.
Step 1: Check the GFCIs
One GFCI protects several outlets downstream — that's why a bathroom GFCI can kill the garage outlets. Check every GFCI in the bathrooms, kitchen, garage, laundry, and exterior.
If one has tripped, press RESET firmly. If it won't reset or trips again immediately, there's a ground fault on that circuit — call an electrician.
Step 2: Check the Breaker
Find the tripped breaker in the panel and reset it exactly once — fully OFF, then ON. If it holds, test the outlets.
If it trips again, leave it off — that usually means a short or damaged wiring on that run.
Step 3: Know When It's the Outlet Itself
If every other outlet on the circuit works but one stays dead, the problem is in that outlet's connections. In older homes we often find backstabbed connections — wires pushed into the outlet's back instead of wrapped around screws — that loosen over years of heat cycling.
Replacing the outlet and landing wires on the screw terminals is straightforward — but it's electrician work, not DIY.
When to Call Right Away
Call immediately if the outlet shows scorch marks, smells like burning plastic, or was sparking before it quit. Otherwise, call within a day or two — it won't fix itself.
Loose connections get worse with time, not better.
Common questions
Why would my bathroom GFCI control my garage outlets?
It's common to daisy-chain outdoor, garage, and bathroom outlets off one GFCI. It's safe — but the reset button you're looking for might be in a different room.
Half my kitchen outlets work and half don't. What happened?
Kitchens often span two or more circuits, so one tripped breaker or GFCI takes out half the room. Check GFCIs first, then the panel. If both are fine, the feed to that half needs a technician's eyes.
Can I replace an outlet myself?
We don't recommend it. Outlet wiring looks simple until you find a multi-wire circuit, a switched outlet, or aluminum wiring — all common here and easy to get wrong. It's a quick service call when we do it.
The outlet works if I wiggle the plug. Is that okay?
No — that's a worn connection generating heat every time you use it. Stop using that outlet and have it replaced; it's one of our simplest repairs.
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