What's actually causing this
Dead outlets most commonly result from a tripped GFCI outlet cutting power to downstream outlets on the same circuit, a tripped circuit breaker, or — less commonly — a failed outlet that needs replacement.
What you'll need
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- Outlet circuit tester Shop →
- Replacement GFCI outlet Shop →
- Non-contact voltage tester Shop →
- Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers Shop →
Step-by-step fix
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1
Check the GFCI outlets first
Find the nearest GFCI outlet in the bathroom, kitchen, garage, or outdoors. Press the RESET button firmly. If it clicks, it was tripped — this may restore power to the dead outlet.
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2
Check the circuit breaker
Look for a tripped breaker at the panel. Reset it and test the outlet.
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3
Test the outlet
Plug in a lamp or use an outlet tester to confirm the outlet is getting power. If it has power but still doesn't work, the outlet itself has failed.
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4
Replace the outlet
Turn off the circuit breaker. Remove the cover plate and unscrew the outlet. Photograph the wire connections. Replace with a new outlet, connecting wires the same way. Black to brass, white to silver, bare to green.
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5
Restore power and retest
Screw the outlet back in, replace the cover plate, and restore power at the breaker. Test with an outlet tester to confirm correct wiring.
- You see burn marks, melted plastic, or smell burning from the outlet.
- The outlet sparks when you plug something in.
- Multiple outlets on different circuits are dead simultaneously.
- The home uses aluminum wiring (silver-colored, common in homes built 1965–1973).
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