Do not open an energized receptacle just to see what is wrong. Start with external checks that do not expose wiring.
Test the appliance somewhere else
This rules out a failed lamp, charger, or appliance. Then use a simple known-good device at the suspect receptacle.
Check the electrical panel
Look for a breaker that sits between ON and OFF. Reset it once. If it trips again, leave the circuit off instead of repeatedly resetting it.
Look for an upstream GFCI
A ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) receptacle in a bathroom, kitchen, garage, basement, or outdoors can protect other downstream outlets. Press Reset only when the device is dry and shows no damage.
Check wall switches
Some receptacles are intentionally controlled by a wall switch, especially in bedrooms and living rooms.
Heat, burning odor, or discoloration changes the priority
Do not use or repeatedly reset an outlet that is hot, loose, scorched, sparking, or smells burned. Turn the circuit off from a safe location and call an electrician.
If one outlet remains dead after these checks, the receptacle or an internal connection may have failed. That requires proper de-energization and electrical service procedures.
Sources
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission — Electrical Safety — Household electrical hazards, damaged receptacles, breakers, cords, and safe response.
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission — GFCIs Fact Sheet — Ground-fault circuit interrupter protection, testing, and reset behavior.