Power outages usually make us think of storms, when candles and flashlights come out while we wait for service to be restored. But what happens when the power is out in one room of your house while everything else is working fine? A partial power outage in the house can be frustrating and confusing, but it’s often caused by a few common issues.
Below we’ll explain what causes electricity to go out in one room, how to troubleshoot, and when it’s time to call a professional.
Why Is the Power Out in Just One Room?
Tripped Breaker
A tripped circuit breaker is the most common reason for electricity not working in one room. This usually happens if a circuit is overloaded or an appliance creates a power surge.
Steps to check:
- Unplug appliances in the affected room.
- Open your breaker panel.
- Look for a breaker in the “off” or “middle/tripped” position.
- Reset it by switching it fully to “off” and then back to “on.”
If this fixes the issue but it happens again, the culprit may be an overloaded circuit or a faulty device.
GFCI Outlet Reset
If the breaker looks fine, the issue might be with a GFCI outlet. These outlets protect against ground faults and are common in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor spaces. A tripped GFCI will cut power to everything downstream, which could explain why the lights in one room are not working.
Press the reset button on the GFCI outlet. Remember, the outlet may not be located in the same room. It could be in an adjacent room or even the garage.
Power Went Out in One Room and Then Came Back On
Sometimes, the power goes out in one room and then comes back on without you doing anything. This usually signals a loose connection in the wiring or within the breaker panel. Even though the lights or outlets may seem fine now, this is a serious warning sign. Loose wiring can overheat, spark, and potentially cause a fire.
If you’ve experienced this situation, schedule an electrical inspection as soon as possible.
Power Is Out in One Room but the Breaker Isn’t Tripped
So what if the power is out in one room but the breaker isn’t tripped? In that case, the problem could be:
- A bad connection inside the outlet or switch.
- Damaged wiring in the walls.
- A breaker that looks “on” but is actually failing internally.
Because these problems involve hidden wiring and electrical panels, they require a licensed electrician to diagnose safely.
What Causes Electricity to Go Out in One Room?
If you’re wondering what causes electricity to go out in one room, here are the most common reasons:
- Overloaded circuits (too many devices plugged in).
- Damaged outlets or switches.
- Faulty wiring inside walls or junction boxes.
- Aging electrical panels with weak breakers.
- GFCI trips caused by moisture or faulty appliances.
How to Fix Power Outage in One Room
If you want to know how to fix a power outage in one room, here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Check for a tripped breaker in the electrical panel.
- Reset any GFCI outlets in or near the affected room.
- Unplug all devices in the room before restoring power.
- If the issue persists, call an electrician to inspect for wiring or panel problems.
Never attempt to rewire or open outlets unless you’re trained. Electricity is dangerous, and improper repairs can lead to fire or injury.
Preventing Partial Power Outages in Your Home
A partial power outage in the house can often be prevented with regular electrical maintenance. Schedule annual inspections to check wiring, breakers, and GFCIs. Consider upgrading old panels or circuits if you’re frequently tripping breakers.
Call Prairie Electric for Help
If you’re dealing with no electricity in one room, or if the lights in one room are not working and you can’t find the cause, Prairie Electric in Vancouver, WA is here to help. Our licensed electricians will quickly identify the issue and make safe, reliable repairs.
Contact us today to schedule a service call and restore power to your home.
