As per manufacturers’ instructions “The end user should press the test and reset buttons at least monthly” YEAH RIGHT! How many folks have that on their “to do list”???
I do tell folks (especially with hot tubs and swimming pools) that they should, especially after every lightning storm. GFI (outlets or circuit breakers) do not take lightning surges very well. If you have ever “smashed one apart” it is “the worlds smallest car stereo” there are tons of electronic components inside that outlet.
So back to your original question babs...if you think back a bit, chances are there was a recent lightning strike.
For those “More mechanically inclined” testing with a ‘wiggy’ is the best method… Test from the hot slot (smallest of the two slots) to the ground slot or screw...if it trips it works as designed.
What I find odd is TWO GFI plugs, the one next to the fridge went out and it took nothing else with it, the next one over went out and took out the other two “regular” outlets.
Some time with a lamp is in order after I replace the one in the kitchen and the one in the bathroom that I pirated for the one in the kitchen.
Bab…
My bet ....What else go you have in the kitchen??? Micro over the stove?? Pig (garbage dispos-all)?? Dishwasher???
What I have and use when checking outlets is a combination outlet tester and GFCI popper - Very useful “idiot proof” tool, almost… The tool is basically a three prong “dummy plug” with three LED’s on it, two yellow one red. If the plug is live and wired right, the yellows light up and the red doesn’t. Other combos show up if you are live and miswired. The one I use also has a button on it that will pop the GFCI if you plug into a GFCI protected outlet and push the test button. Only minor flaw is the button is to exposed, makes it easy to press by accident while plugging in or removing it.
I use it to test for correct wiring before plugging in electronics (actually I’ll do the entire house at once so I don’t have to worry about it later...) and whenever working on an electric circuit to verify if it’s live or dead.
Because the “test buttons” can be fooled if the outlets aren’t wired right, I like this tester because it is actually verifying the function of the GFCI by simulating the exact type of short that the GFCI is intended to protect you against.
Can’t be hooked up wrong, very reliable indication, cost was under $5.00, what’s not to like? I figure it’s one of those “belongs in every toolbox” type items…
