In general, pressing the test button on a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet is a way to check if the GFCI is functioning correctly. The test button simulates a ground fault to ensure that the GFCI can quickly detect and interrupt the circuit in case of an electrical leak or imbalance, thus providing an added layer of protection against electrical shocks.
On the other hand, pressing the reset button on the GFCI outlet is necessary to restore power to the outlets after a trip or if it has been manually tested using the test button. The reset button essentially reactivates the GFCI so that it can continue monitoring the electrical circuit for any faults.
If you never use the GFCI outlet or the devices connected to it and you are certain that there are no electrical appliances or electronics relying on its functionality, there may not be an immediate danger or problem in not pressing the reset button. However, it is generally a good practice to ensure that all electrical outlets in your home are functioning correctly, including GFCIs. Here's why:
Safety: GFCI outlets are an important safety feature in homes, especially in areas where water is present (e.g., bathrooms, kitchens, outdoor outlets). By ensuring they are working, you have an added layer of protection against electric shocks, which could be critical in case of an electrical accident.
Maintenance: Regularly testing and resetting GFCI outlets helps identify potential issues early on. If the outlet has malfunctioned or is not working correctly, it's better to address the problem as soon as possible to maintain a safe electrical system.
Unintended future use: Even if you currently do not use the outlet, the situation might change in the future. If someone else moves into the house or you decide to use the outlet for something else later on, you'd want to ensure it's functioning correctly for the sake of safety.
Code Compliance: In many regions, electrical codes require GFCI protection in specific areas of the house. Keeping them functional and up to code is essential, especially if you plan to sell your property in the future.
In summary, while there may not be immediate harm or problems from not pressing the reset button on a GFCI outlet if you're not using it, it's still a good idea to periodically check and reset all GFCI outlets in your home to maintain safety and ensure their proper functionality. If you encounter any issues with the outlets, it's best to have them inspected and repaired by a qualified electrician.