A bright idea for easier fixes
Don’t wait in the dark for answers. With video chat, ShieldGold™ and ShieldPlatinum™ members can connect with a licensed repair Expert through the American Home Shield app.
Real Video Chat Story: How Parth Got Expert Help to Reset His Bathroom Outlets
AHS Editorial Team
March 26, 2026
Everything in American Home Shield® member Parth’s new home was working perfectly… until one morning when all of his bathroom outlets lost their spark.
He hoped it might be a quick fix. Maybe he’d tripped a breaker or missed a reset button? Instead of feeling powerless with his electrical outlet repair, he decided to try something different. He opened the American Home Shield® app and started a video chat. Within minutes, Parth was connected with one of our Experts, John, a licensed electrical Expert ready to help him get his power back on.
Video chat feature available as a benefit to AHS members with select plans. See AHS.com for hours and details.
How to repair an outlet
The call
When Parth explained what was going on, he mentioned his first instinct was to check the circuit breaker or look for a reset switch. He’d already found one in his garage and gave it a try, but nothing changed.
Electrical Expert John asked for a closer look at the outlet causing the trouble. That’s when John noticed something important on camera—a tiny label on one of the outlets that read “GFCI Protected.”
The assessment
Expert John asked Parth to take a look at the second bathroom. Sure enough, there was a GFCI outlet with the “Test” and “Reset” buttons.
He explained that Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are designed to protect against electric shock. When they detect the slightest irregularity, they shut off power instantly to keep you safe.
“Anytime you have regular outlets not working,” our Expert John said, “you definitely want to look for those GFCIs and hit the reset.”
He also pointed out a small indicator light on the outlet. If it’s glowing red or amber, that means the circuit has tripped.
The outcome
One firm push of a button later, and the outlets were alive again. The short of it? Parth’s family member used a hair dryer that pulled a bit too much power, sparking a big lesson.
After the outlet repair and as power was restored to the bathroom, Electrical Expert John shared a few insights on how GFCI outlets help protect homes. In many modern houses, one GFCI outlet protects several others on the circuit.
For Parth, it was a better understanding of the electrical safety features of his home. “You saved me the hassle and the money,” he told our Expert John with a laugh.
“Perfect,” John replied. “That’s what we’re looking for.”
A quick reset, a little education, and another happy homeowner. Proof that sometimes, the easiest repair is just a video chat away.
About GFCI Outlets
GFCI outlets are a small but essential safety feature in your home’s electrical system. Unlike conventional outlets, GFCIs monitor the balance between the “hot” and “neutral” wires. If even a slight imbalance is detected, they trip almost instantly to prevent electric shock.
Here’s what makes them such a powerful part of your home’s safety:
- They react faster than you can blink: GFCIs can trip in less than 1/10th of a second1 when a ground fault is detected, quick enough to prevent serious injury.
- They’re required where it matters most: The National Electrical Code mandates GFCI protection anywhere where water and electricity might meet, like bathrooms, kitchens, garages, basements, and outdoor outlets.2
- One outlet can protect many: When properly wired, a single GFCI can protect multiple outlets on the same circuit, meaning that resetting one can restore power to several others.
Testing keeps you protected: GFCIs wear down over time, so it’s smart to test them at least once a month. Plug in a lamp, press “test,” and the light should go out. Then, press “Reset” and the light should turn back on. If it doesn’t, it’s time for replacement or a professional electrical outlet repair.
How much should it cost to repair an electrical outlet?
When a quick reset doesn’t get the job done, the cost of an electrical outlet repair can vary depending on the cause.
On average, outlet repair costs between $80 and $200, while more complex wiring issues can add to the cost. A GFCI outlet itself usually costs around $20, compared to about $4 for a standard outlet.3
Can a handyman repair an electrical outlet?
For minor issues like replacing an outlet cover, tightening a screw, or resetting a GFCI, a homeowner or handyman can usually handle the job. But when you’re dealing with repeated tripping, or any sign of burning or sparking, it’s time to bring in a professional.
Feeling powerless against your home systems and appliances? Don’t Worry. Be Warranty.
Need help assessing or fixing an issue around the house, like an electrical outlet, leaky faucet, or appliance that’s lost its spark? American Home Shield can help you take the hassle out of home repairs.
American Home Shield’s coverage can help keep your your covered home systems and appliances protected when the unexpected happens, so you can spend less time troubleshooting and more time enjoying your home.
With plans like ShieldGold™ and ShieldPlatinum™, you’ll get comprehensive coverage plus the option to use video chat where you can connect with live repair Experts real time for quick guidance and peace of mind knowing that help is always a few taps away. So, the next time your home loses power or you lose your patience, remember, you’re never on your own with American Home Shield.
*See the plan agreement for coverage details, including service fees, limitations and exclusions. Coverage limits and charges for non-covered items may apply. Video chat available as a member benefit with select AHS plans. Video chat hours are from 8AM-9PM CST, 7 days/week. Subject to change.
AHS assumes no responsibility, and specifically disclaims all liability, for your use of any and all information contained herein.
