NEW USER: so this has probably been covered but every situation is different and I've found some inconsistent work done by the original contractor. Here's the jist:
-Using an electric Pressure washer, I've tripped all three of my outdoor receptacles.
My checklist for finding/fixing the issue:
- Since these are outdoor I assumed they were GFCI protected so I checked all of them looking for the TEST/Reset buttons. None were present.
- Next, checked the Breaker Box for a tripped breaker. None were tripped
- Next, I checked all of the other GFCI outlets that are installed. None were tripped.
- Next I tested every other existing outlets for power. They were all 100%
- Next I checked the Breaker panel again for something tripped. All were fine.
- Next I one by one flipped all of the individual breakers to reset. Still no power
- Next I flipped the main breaker for the entire unit thinking it may reset any issues. No Luck
- Is it possible, I need to replace one of the individual breakers even though they all seem to be good?
Lastly, I know the line is all attached for the outside receptacles, but I can't even find where it ties into the breaker box because everything else works. Oh and one thing I have not done for safety reasons because I don't know what breaker to throw, was to pull all the receptacles off individually and check the wiring. I thought about it but If that is the case and I pull one and the wire touches to make the circuit live again, it may not turn out so well.
Best Answer
The contractor did right, probably. When you have a string of outlets that goes outside, you put the GFCI inside the house so it's not in the weather. You also try to use a GFCI receptacle instead of breaker because they are cheaper.
You don't need to upturn the entire house looking for this GFCI, just follow the wires back from the outdoor receptacle chain. I'll grant you this is sometimes less than obvious.
Also are you really sure you don't have a GFCI breaker and there isn't a RESET button on the breaker patiently waiting to be pushed? Cycling the breaker may not have that effect.
You can easily de-energize the receptacles in question, just turn off the main. You are probably wise to do that, as it will educate you as to how the wires are routed.