What Causes a GFCI to Trip? Common Causes and Fixes

Okay, real talk—what causes a GFCI outlet to trip? If you’ve ever plugged something in, only to have your GFCI outlet trip, you’re not alone. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) are critical for protecting your home from electrical shocks—but when they keep tripping, it can be frustrating.

At Speck Family Electric, we help homeowners across Sparta, Cookeville, and surrounding Tennessee areas troubleshoot GFCI problems every day. This guide explains what causes a GFCI to trip, when to worry, and when to call a licensed electrician.

GFCI outlets are designed to protect you from electrical shock by cutting off power when they detect a ground fault—a difference in the electrical flow between the hot and neutral wires.

These areas are prone to moisture, which makes electrical shock more likely.

Here are the most common reasons:

Bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor outlets are vulnerable to humidity and rain. Moisture inside the outlet can cause a ground fault.

Fix:

• Dry the outlet thoroughly
• Ensure outdoor GFCIs have weatherproof covers

Sometimes the problem isn’t the outlet—it’s what you plugged in. Appliances with damaged cords or internal wiring issues can trigger the GFCI.

Fix:

• Unplug everything
• Test the GFCI with no load

Plugging too many devices into one circuit can cause the breaker or GFCI to trip.

Fix:

• Distribute appliances across multiple outlets

If your wiring is damaged or incorrectly installed, your GFCI will keep tripping to prevent danger.

Fix:

• This is a job for a licensed electrician—don’t DIY this one.

Some older GFCIs are overly sensitive or worn out, causing them to trip for no real reason.

Fix:

• Replace the GFCI outlet
• Upgrade to a newer, safer model

Yes—press the RESET button after removing any suspected problem device. If it keeps tripping:

If your GFCI trips repeatedly, it’s time to bring in a professional. Electrical issues can lead to fire hazards or shocks.

A GFCI that keeps tripping isn’t just annoying—it’s a safety warning. Don’t ignore it. The experts at Speck Family Electric are ready to help keep your home safe.

Want to learn more about electrical safety? Check out these helpful guides:

• Flickering Lights: Common Causes and When to Worry
• Why Do My Light Bulbs Keep Burning Out? Here’s Why