Test Outdoor Gfci Outlets

Test and inspect your outdoor GFCI outlets and weatherproof covers to ensure they'll protect you from electrical shock in wet conditions.

Why it matters#

GFCI outlets (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters) can prevent electrocution by cutting power in milliseconds when they detect a problem. Working GFCIs reduce the risk of dying from electrical shock by shutting off power before it can harm you. About 43 million U.S. homes lack proper GFCI protection in wet areas—don't let yours be one of them.

What you'll need#

Tools#

• GFCI outlet tester ($15-30, optional but recommended)
• Flashlight

Safety gear#

• Dry shoes, avoid standing on wet ground during testing

Steps#

1. Locate all outdoor outlets#

Walk around your home's exterior and identify every outdoor outlet. Check near doors, on patios, by the garage, and anywhere you might plug in holiday lights or power tools.

2. Inspect the weatherproof covers#

Each outdoor outlet should have a cover. "In-use" covers (bubble-shaped) allow a cord to stay plugged in while maintaining weather protection—these are required by code for outdoor outlets. Check that covers close completely and gaskets aren't cracked or missing.

3. Test using the TEST button#

Press the TEST button firmly on the outlet face. You should hear a click, and the RESET button should pop out. This confirms the safety mechanism works. If nothing happens, the GFCI has failed and needs replacement.

4. Verify power is cut#

Plug in a lamp or phone charger and turn it on. Press TEST—the device should turn off immediately. If power continues flowing after pressing TEST, the outlet isn't providing protection.

5. Reset the outlet#

Press the RESET button firmly until it clicks and stays in. Your plugged-in device should power back on. The outlet is now active again and ready to protect you.

6. Check downstream outlets#

One GFCI can protect multiple "downstream" outlets on the same circuit. If you have outdoor outlets without TEST/RESET buttons, they may be protected by a GFCI elsewhere—often in the garage or a bathroom.

Pro tips#

• Test all GFCIs monthly—manufacturers recommend it, and it takes just seconds
• If a GFCI trips during rain or after power washing, wait 1-2 days for it to dry completely before assuming it's faulty
• GFCIs last about 10 years—if yours are older, consider proactive replacement even if they still pass testing

Warnings#

• Never test outdoor outlets while standing in water or on wet ground—wait for dry conditions
• If an outlet sparks, smokes, feels warm, or shows burn marks, don't touch it—call an electrician immediately

When to call a pro#

Call a licensed electrician ($75-150 per outlet) if outlets fail testing, won't reset, need replacement, or if you need to add GFCI protection where none exists. Electrical work can be dangerous, and there's no downside to having a professional handle it—especially for outdoor circuits exposed to weather.