A circuit breaker trips when it detects more current than a circuit can safely carry, or a fault in the wiring. The most common causes are an overloaded circuit, a short circuit, a ground fault and, on AFCI breakers, an arc fault. At Central Heating Cooling Plumbing Electrical, electrical safety is a top priority. This guide explains why breakers trip, what to do when one keeps tripping and when to call an electrician.
Understanding Circuit Breakers
Power from the utility enters the home through the service panel. Each breaker in the panel controls one circuit, a loop of wiring that starts and ends at the panel. When a breaker trips, its handle moves to off or to a middle position between on and off, according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI). It stays off until someone resets it.
A circuit breaker is a safety device designed to protect your home and property from electrical fires and damage. It does this by automatically shutting off the electrical supply by “tripping” when the current flowing through the wiring exceeds safe levels. This can happen for several reasons, such as overloading a circuit with too many appliances, a short circuit, or a ground fault.
Why Do Circuit Breakers Trip?
Circuit breakers trip to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards. Here are common reasons why a circuit breaker might trip:
Overloaded Circuit
The most common cause. When too many appliances or light fixtures are operating at the same time, it can overload the circuit. If you’re using power strips to multiply the number of available plug options in your home, consider having an electrician add new circuits and outlets.
Short Circuit
A more serious issue where a hot wire comes into contact with a neutral wire, causing a large amount of current to flow and tripping the breaker.
Short circuit causes include:
- Faulty wiring or insulation
- Loose wire connections, often found in outlets, switches or other connection points within the electrical system
- Damaged or aged electrical components
- Water damage
- Rodents and pests chewing through wiring insulation
- DIY projects and improper electrical repairs
- Overheating of electrical devices or wiring
Ground Fault
A ground fault occurs when a hot wire touches a ground wire or a metal box, sending current where it shouldn’t go. GFCI outlets and GFCI breakers are designed to trip when they detect a ground fault. Scorch marks or discoloration around an outlet are a warning sign that needs an electrician. See how to test a GFCI outlet.
Arc Fault
An arc fault is caused by damaged, overheated or stressed wiring or devices, where electricity jumps a gap. An AFCI (arc fault circuit interrupter) breaker is designed to trip when it detects arcing, before the heat can start a fire. If an AFCI breaker trips repeatedly, have an electrician find the cause. Learn more about electrical arcing.
What to Do When a Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping
Try to Identify the Cause
Before resetting the breaker, try to identify which appliances or devices are causing the overload and unplug them.
Reset the Breaker
After unplugging the devices, reset the breaker by switching it firmly to off and then back to on.
If the breaker trips again, have a qualified electrician inspect the circuit before resetting it again.
Spread Out Electrical Devices
Avoid plugging too many devices into one circuit. Distribute your electrical devices across different circuits. Space heaters and other appliances that generate heat draw a lot of current. ESFI advises plugging a space heater directly into a wall outlet, never into an extension cord or power strip, and not plugging anything else into the same outlet. See space heater safety.
Inspect for Visible Damage
Look for any visible signs of damage on cords, plugs, and outlets. Replace worn out cords.
When to Call an Electrician
It’s important not to ignore the signs of electrical issues. Here are situations where you should call a professional electrician:
Frequent Tripping
If a breaker trips frequently, it’s a sign that professional diagnosis is needed. Frequent tripping can also mean your home needs more circuits or a larger panel. See signs your electrical panel is outdated.
Burning Smell or Visible Damage
Any sign of burning or damage to electrical outlets, wires, or the breaker box itself requires immediate attention.
After a DIY Project
If you’ve recently done a DIY project involving your electrical system and are experiencing electrical issues, play it safe and get a professional to inspect your work.
Circuit Breaker FAQ
Why does my breaker keep tripping?
Most often the circuit is overloaded. It can also be a short circuit, a ground fault or, on an AFCI breaker, arcing in the wiring. If it trips again after you unplug devices and reset it once, call an electrician.
Is it safe to keep resetting a tripped breaker?
No. Reset it once after unplugging devices. If it trips again, leave it off and have an electrician inspect the circuit.
Why does my breaker trip with nothing plugged in?
A breaker that trips with nothing running on the circuit points to a short circuit or ground fault in the wiring, an outlet or a switch, or a problem with the breaker itself. That needs an electrician.
How do I tell which breaker tripped?
Look for a handle that sits at off or in a middle position between on and off.
Importance of Professional Electrical Installation and Repairs
A licensed electrician can help identify and fix the root cause of your electrical problems, ensuring the safety and protection of your home. They can offer solutions that might not be apparent to the untrained eye and help prevent future issues.
If you’re experiencing issues with your circuit breakers or have any concerns about your home’s electrical system, don’t hesitate to contact Central Heating Cooling Plumbing Electrical. Our licensed electricians are here to find the cause and keep your electrical system safe and reliable. Learn more about our electrical troubleshooting service.
