What usually causes this?
Tripped GFCI
GFCIs in bathrooms, kitchens, garages and outdoors often protect other outlets downstream.
Tripped breaker
A tripped breaker may only be slightly out of line with the others.
Switched outlet
Some outlets — or half of one — are controlled by a wall switch.
Loose or backstabbed wire
Push-in connections loosen over time and can break the circuit to this and following outlets.
Worn-out outlet
Outlets that no longer grip plugs or have internal damage may fail.
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 other outlets on the same wall or room work
- Whether the outlet is warm, discolored or cracked
- Any GFCI that won't reset
- Whether the outlet works intermittently
- If the problem started after a storm or furniture move
Warning signs that need a professional
- Burning smell or scorch marks
- Outlet is warm with nothing plugged in
- Sparks or crackling
- Several outlets died at once
- Breaker trips when you reset it
When should you call an electrician?
If resetting GFCIs and breakers doesn't help, call an electrician. They'll trace the circuit, find the failed connection and repair it — often by replacing backstabbed connections with secure terminal connections.
See also dead electrical outlet and outlet repair.
Services that fix this problem
Electrical Outlet Repair
Fixing dead, loose, warm, sparking or scorched outlets — and the wiring problems behind them.
GFCI Outlet Repair
Fixing GFCIs that won't reset, trip constantly, fail the test button or leave outlets without power.
Electrical Troubleshooting
Systematic testing to find the cause of intermittent power loss, tripping, flickering and other electrical faults that aren't obvious.
Electrical Repair
Diagnosis and repair of dead circuits, failing outlets and switches, tripping breakers and other everyday electrical faults in your home.
Related electrical problems
Frequently asked questions
A tripped GFCI elsewhere, a switched outlet, or a loose connection are the usual causes.
We recommend having an electrician do it. The dead outlet may be the symptom of a failed connection elsewhere.
Intermittent power usually points to a loose connection, which can create heat. Have it checked.