A tripped breaker can be frustrating and potentially a serious issue. Breakers are designed to protect everything connected to the circuit, including switches, receptacles as well as all connected devices and appliances, from damages from overloads and short circuits. When dealing with a tripping breaker it is a good idea to try to remember what was occurring when the breaker tripped to help troubleshoot the issue.
Why Breakers Trip
Circuit Overload
This is the most common reason for a breaker to trip. Each breaker is designed to handle a certain amount of power. So, if you end up trying to use too many things on a single circuit, it could cause the breaker to trip to prevent damages.
- What to check first: Unplug some items starting with the last thing plugged in until you can properly reset the breaker without further tripping, then move that item to another circuit.
Short Circuit
This is exactly how it sounds, it’s when electricity takes a shortcut and bypasses the normal path. This can be caused by damaged wiring, faulty appliance, or loose connection, each of these can cause further damages if not repaired quickly.
- What to check first: Look for any obvious signs of damage, such as frayed cords, loose or discolored receptacles, or burnt marks. Unplug everything and turn all lights off on the circuit. If breaker still trips the problem is most likely in the wiring and requires a professional.
Ground Fault
This is when a hot wire comes into contact with the ground wire or grounded part of the electrical system. This can be caused by water getting into parts of the circuit, faulty appliance, or defective outlet. A ground fault can be dangerous and lead to a shock hazard.
- What to check first: Look for any signs of water around outlets and appliances. If a ground fault circuit interrupter GFCI receptacle or breaker is installed these should be tested monthly by pressing the “Test” button, if the unit trips and resets when the “Reset” button is pressed then it is in good working order, if it doesn’t it needs to be replaced by a professional electrician.
Arc Fault
This is a dangerous condition when a hot or neutral wire are not connected properly, causing a small spark or arc to occur. This can be caused by a loose connection, damaged wiring, or faulty device. An arc fault can lead to property damage if not properly addressed.
- What to check first: Listen for any sizzling or crackling sounds coming from outlets or switches when the breaker is on. If there is an arc fault breaker installed it should be tested once a month by pressing the “Test” button on the breaker and then resetting the breaker by flipping back to the on position. These breakers can be installed in replacement of standard breakers to help protect older wiring.
Faulty Breaker
In some cases, the breaker itself may be faulty and need to be replaced. A breaker that is old, damaged or has been tripped many times may no longer be able to handle the connected load.
- What to check first: If you’ve tried all the above and the breaker still trips, it likely that the breaker itself is the problem. One of our professional electricians can test and replace the breaker.
When to Call and Electrician
It is important to remember that there are many reasons a breaker may trip and these are just the most common causes. It is always the best choice to call a professional since we have the knowledge and tools to safely and effectively diagnose and fix the issue. Call us today to have one of our awesome electricians come out to fix your tripping breaker.