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Quick answer
On Leviton self-test GFCIs, the light tells you the device's status. Green is normal. Off usually means it's tripped or has no power. Red that won't clear after TEST and RESET means replace it. These meanings are from Leviton's LED sheet; other brands may differ.
If Leviton's steps say replace it (Leviton models):
Leviton GFTR1-W tamper-resistant GFCILeviton GFNT1-W slim GFCILeviton's light chart
| Light | Meaning | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Off | Tripped, no power to the load | Press RESET. It won't reset without power, so check the breaker. |
| Solid or flashing red | Problem detected | Press TEST, then RESET. If red continues or it won't reset, replace the GFCI. |
| Green | Normal, protected | Nothing; keep up the monthly test |
| Green with RESET out | Line and load wires reversed | Breaker off; correct the wiring or call an electrician |
Leviton's sheet covers its GFTR, GFNL, GFNT, GFWT, GFSW and GFRBF families. Its guide-light models (GFNL1 and GFNL2) also have a white light.
Picking a replacement
Leviton's GFTR1-W and GFNT1-W are both 15 amp, 125 volt self-test outlets with 20 amp feed-through and an indicator light. The GFTR1-W is tamper-resistant; the GFNT1-W is a slim, non-tamper-resistant model. Check your local code and your box size before you choose.
Wiring is a job for the breaker off. Turn off power at the panel before touching any wiring. Leviton's guides point to a licensed electrician for wiring you aren't comfortable correcting, and for trips that keep happening.
How we work: light meanings come from Leviton's LED diagnosis sheet; specs come from Leviton's product pages. We don't test electrical devices ourselves. Sources are listed below.
Questions people ask
What does a red light on a GFCI mean?
On Leviton GFCIs, press TEST then RESET. If the red light continues or it won't reset, Leviton says replace the GFCI.
What does a green light mean?
Normal operation, per Leviton. Green with the RESET button out means line and load wires are reversed.
What if the light is off?
Leviton says it's tripped with no power to the load. Press RESET; it won't reset without power, so check the breaker.
Sources
Last checked Oct 23, 2026. Details come from Leviton's GFCI guides, LED diagnosis sheet and product pages. Turn off the breaker before touching wiring, and call a licensed electrician if unsure.
