A Red Light On An External Gfi Outlet That Is Flashing?

A GFCI (GFidential Ground Connector) outlet is a device that connects a power source to a circuit, such as a circuit in a home. It is designed to be self-monitoring and periodically tests itself to ensure it works as intended. The light indicators on GFCI outlets typically appear in three different states: green, red, and yellow.

A green light indicates that the GFCI is functioning properly, while a red light indicates an electrical fault, such as an overloaded circuit, a ground fault, or a faulty appliance. Common causes of a red light include faulty wiring, ground fault, electrical overload, and more. A solid or flashing red light on GFCI outlets may also suggest replacing the outlet.

A red light on a GFCI outlet indicates either a defective outlet or it has reached its end of life and needs to be replaced. If the GFCI does not reset or the solid or blinking red light continues, the device has somehow been compromised and must be replaced. If the device does not have an LED, it is likely a GFCI outlet, which is usually caused by a drop of water or a hard bump.

A red indicator typically means “tripped” and needs resetting, or a green indicator means the circuit is “active”. If the GFCI fails the internal self-test, a “blinking” red status should be present. Common causes of a red status light include a bad GFCI receptacle, which will still work but no longer trip like it is designed to.

1. Turn off the power, pull the GFCI out, remove any wires from its load terminals, and cap them off. Put the GFCI back in the box and power back up.
2. If the GFCI flashes red, simply reset it without replacing it with a new one. Some people may experience more severe issues when their GFCI flashes red, but the process remains crucial for maintaining safety and functionality.