What usually causes this?
Moisture
Rain, humidity, condensation or a leak in outdoor or bathroom boxes is a top cause.
Faulty appliance
Appliances with heating elements or motors — freezers, hair dryers, pressure washers — can leak current as they age.
Damaged downstream wiring
Worn insulation or damaged cable on the protected circuit can cause trips.
Worn-out GFCI
Older GFCIs can become overly sensitive or fail.
Too many devices downstream
Long circuits with many outlets have more places for small leaks to add up.
What you can safely check
These details help an electrician find the cause faster. Look and listen only — do not remove covers or touch wiring.
- Whether it trips with nothing plugged in
- Whether it trips only when a specific device runs
- Whether trips follow rain
- Which outlets lose power when it trips
- Age of the GFCI
Warning signs that need a professional
- GFCI won't reset at all
- Burning smell or heat at the GFCI
- Shock or tingle from a device on the circuit
- Trips immediately with no load
- Water in exterior boxes
When should you call an electrician?
If the GFCI trips with nothing plugged in, won't reset, or you can't identify the cause, call an electrician. They'll test the downstream wiring and devices and repair or replace what's failing.
For background, see GFCI outlet repair.
Services that fix this problem
GFCI Outlet Repair
Fixing GFCIs that won't reset, trip constantly, fail the test button or leave outlets without power.
GFCI Outlet Installation
Adding GFCI shock protection to kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, garages, basements and outdoor outlets.
Electrical Troubleshooting
Systematic testing to find the cause of intermittent power loss, tripping, flickering and other electrical faults that aren't obvious.
Outdoor Lighting
Exterior lighting for porches, patios, decks, driveways and walkways — wired and rated for outdoor use.
Related electrical problems
Frequently asked questions
No. That removes shock protection in areas where it's most important and may violate code.
Water is reaching an outdoor outlet, fixture or connection on the protected circuit.
Yes, an aging compressor or defrost heater can leak current. The appliance and circuit should both be checked.