What Should Do if Your Circuit Breakers Keeps Tripping?

If your circuit breaker keeps tripping, it can be frustrating and confusing. But don’t worry! We’ll help you understand what’s happening and what to do when the breaker keeps tripping.

Understanding Circuit Breaker Tripping

Why does a circuit breaker trip? A circuit breaker trips or shuts off to protect your home. It’s like a safety switch that stops power when something is wrong. The breaker might trip because the circuit has too much load, there’s a short circuit, or something is grounded incorrectly.

Overload: If too many devices are on one circuit, the breaker shuts off. This stops wires from overheating.

Short Circuit: A short circuit occurs when a hot wire comes into contact with a neutral wire. This can cause sparks or heat, making the breaker shut off.

Ground Fault: When a hot wire touches the ground wire or metal, it causes a surge. Breakers trip to keep you safe from shocks or fires.

What to Do When Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping

When a circuit breaker trips, here’s what you should do to  fix it:

1. Turn Off and Unplug Devices

Begin by switching off all devices connected to the affected circuit. Unplug them to reduce the load. This helps you determine if the issue is from an overloaded circuit or an appliance.

2. Reset the Circuit Breaker

Locate your breaker panel and find the tripped breaker. Move it fully to the “off” position, then flip it back to “on.” This should restore power, but if the breaker trips again immediately, the problem is likely with the wiring or a more serious issue.

3. Test Appliances One at a Time

Plug each device back in, one by one, and monitor if the breaker trips after any specific appliance. This process helps identify if a faulty device is the cause.

4. Check for Short Circuits or Ground Faults

If unplugging devices doesn’t solve the issue, the wiring might have a short circuit or ground fault. Check your outlets and cords for signs of damage or wear, like scorch marks or frayed wires.

5. Avoid Overloading Circuits

To prevent future tripping, avoid plugging too many high-power appliances into one circuit. Distribute devices across different circuits if possible.

6. Contact an Electrician

If the breaker keeps tripping and none of the above steps work, it’s time to call a licensed electrician. Persistent tripping could indicate a wiring issue or a need for a breaker upgrade, which a professional should handle.

Preventive Measures

Keeping your breaker from tripping starts with smart prevention. Here are some tips:

Distribute Power Use: Spread high-power appliances across different circuits. Don’t use too many devices on one circuit to prevent overloads.

Check Appliances Regularly: Faulty appliances can cause breakers to trip. Make sure your devices are in good working condition to avoid problems.

Avoid Water Near Outlets: Wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms can cause ground faults. Ensure outlets in these areas have ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) for extra protection.

Schedule Inspections: If your breaker trips often, have an electrician inspect it. They can find hidden issues and prevent bigger problems.

Trusted Products from TOSUNlux

Knowing what to do when a breaker keeps tripping can help you fix the issue and stay safe. Remember, TOSUNlux is here with trusted products to keep your home’s power steady and secure. Contact us for a quote today!