"Test" and "Reset" outlets, does the test self end?

Question

I have a circuit that's not working, I asked about it earlier and was told it was a GFCI and to try the reset button THEN hit the breaker (and no, I don't mean smack it, I mean push it).

Anyhow, I've never been clear on these outlets, is it that you press the "Test" button and the "reset" pops out when it is ok to use OR is it safe to use if you press the test button and can press the reset right away?

Answer 1

To answer you about GFCI buttons- pushing 'test' will turn off power out of that receptacle and anything connected through it (this could be other outlets or devices like garbage thingys).  Push 'reset' anytime to restore power.

As for your dead circuit- hopefully you first switched the appropriate breaker 'off' then 'on' as suggested by someone else. Then push 'reset' on the GFCI outlet. If still no juice, ask a handy friend to visit before the call to the pro.

Answer 2

No.

Both steps are positive.

Answer 3

If there is no juice to the outlet which is a GFCI, then press the RESET button.  If the RESET button is popped out, you will feel it when you push it in.  If you push the test button, the RESET should pop out (you;ll hear a click).

Since none of that worked for you,  check the other GFCI outlets.  Sometimes they run those outlets on the same wire (in series).  Thus, if there is another GFCI outlet blown between that outlet and the breaker box, then that outlet will not get power.  So check all the other GFCI outlets to see if another is blown.