Why is my outdoor light not working?

Your outdoor light likely isn't working due to a tripped GFCI outlet, burned-out bulb, or tripped circuit breaker. Start by checking these simple fixes before calling an electrician.

The most common cause is a tripped GFCI outlet. In Ottawa, the Ontario Electrical Safety Code requires GFCI protection for all outdoor circuits. Look for a GFCI outlet near your outdoor light (often in the garage, basement, or exterior wall) and check if the red "RESET" button is popped out. Press it firmly - you should hear a click. If it won't reset or immediately trips again, you have a ground fault that needs professional attention.

Next, check the light bulb itself. Even LED bulbs eventually fail, and outdoor bulbs face harsh Ottawa weather conditions. If it's a fixture you can safely reach, turn off the wall switch and replace the bulb. For higher fixtures or if you're unsure about safety, leave this to a professional.

Check your electrical panel for tripped breakers. A tripped breaker will be in the middle position (not fully ON or OFF). Flip it completely OFF, then back ON. If it trips again immediately, there's likely a short circuit or ground fault that requires professional diagnosis.

Weather-related issues are common in Ottawa's climate. Ice, snow, or moisture can cause temporary outages or damage outdoor fixtures. However, if water has entered the fixture, this creates a serious safety hazard and should be addressed by a licensed electrician immediately.

When to call a professional: If the GFCI won't reset, the breaker keeps tripping, you see any sparking or burning smells, or the fixture shows signs of water damage, stop troubleshooting and call an ESA-licensed electrician. Outdoor electrical work involves additional safety risks and often requires permits for repairs or replacements.

Safety warning: Never attempt to work on outdoor electrical fixtures during wet conditions or if you suspect water damage. Outdoor electrical issues can be particularly dangerous due to moisture and ground fault risks.

For persistent outdoor lighting issues or if you need fixture replacement, Electrical Ottawa provides free estimates for outdoor electrical repairs and installations throughout Ottawa and the surrounding area.