August 22, 2003, Newsletter Issue #71: Brown out

Tip of the Week

After a brown out/black out, outlets in 3 bathrooms and an outlet in the garage does not work. I checked the fuse box, but all circuit breakers are on. I was told that replacing the outlets may solve the problem, but it didn`t.
I am thinking of changing the circuit breakers for each of the effected outlets, but others have told me to first replace the GFI circuit breaker first.
All suggestions with good intentions but none that are professional. Your advice on this is much needed.

Thanks.

Dear DIYer;
It sounds like the 3 bath outlets and the garage outlet are on the same circuit, which is very common. If you have Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter breakers,they will be in the breaker panel. You can recognize them by the reset button on the breaker. Sometimes, however, electricians use a GFCI outlet instead of a breaker. The GFCI outlet will be the first outlet on the circuit. It will also have a reset button. Try resetting the device.

I would be willing to bet that you have 1 garage outlet, each bath outlet, and each outdoor outlet on the same circuit. Depending on the age of your home, there will also be 2 GFCI circuits for the kitchen outlets. Each of the GFCI devices, whether breakers or GFCI outlets, should be checked from time to time. Manufacturers recommend testing every month. To test, push the test button. The power should be cut off to the entire circuit. Then push the reset button to restore power. If the device does not work properly, replace it.
Home Improvement Guru

About LifeTips

Now one of the top on-line publishers in the world, LifeTips offers tips to millions of monthly visitors. Our mission mission is to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Expert writers earn dough for what they know. And exclusive sponsors in each niche topic help us make-it-all happen.

Not finding the advice and tips you need on this Home Improvement Tip Site? Request a Tip Now!


Guru Spotlight
Susan Sayour