How Do You Fix A Breaker That Keeps Tripping?

Key Takeaway

If a breaker keeps tripping, the first step is to identify the cause. Start by unplugging all devices connected to the circuit. Then, reset the breaker by switching it off and back on. Plug in the devices one by one, and if the breaker trips again, the issue may be with a specific device or appliance drawing too much power.

If the breaker still trips with nothing plugged in, it could be an overloaded circuit or a faulty breaker. In this case, you should redistribute the load by moving devices to different circuits or consult an electrician to check for underlying wiring issues. If the breaker itself is worn out, it may need to be replaced to ensure the system remains safe and functional.

Diagnosing the Cause of Breaker Tripping

Diagnosing a tripping breaker begins by identifying the root cause, which is usually one of three common issues: overload, short circuit, or ground fault. Start by noting the frequency of the tripping and the appliances or devices connected to the affected circuit.

For an overload, the breaker trips when the circuit carries more current than it’s designed for. This often happens when too many appliances are running on the same circuit. A short circuit occurs when live wires touch, leading to a sudden surge in electricity. This can happen due to faulty wiring or damaged electrical components. Lastly, ground faults happen when a live wire comes into contact with the ground, causing a similar surge in current.

To narrow down the cause, unplug all devices on the circuit and reset the breaker. If it holds, the issue may be related to one of the connected devices or overload. If it trips immediately, the fault likely lies in the wiring or breaker itself.

Steps to Safely Reset a Tripped Breaker

Resetting a tripped breaker is a straightforward process but should be done carefully to ensure your safety. Here are the steps to reset your breaker:

Turn off all appliances: Before resetting the breaker, make sure to turn off or unplug all devices connected to the circuit. This prevents a sudden surge of electricity when the breaker is reset.

Locate the breaker panel: The breaker box is usually found in a garage, basement, or utility room. Identify the breaker that has tripped by looking for one that is positioned between the ‘on’ and ‘off’ position.

Flip the breaker fully to the off position: Before resetting, you must first turn the tripped breaker completely off. This resets the breaker internally and prepares it for being turned back on.

Switch the breaker to the on position: Once fully off, flip the breaker back to the ‘on’ position. If the breaker stays on, the issue may have been a temporary overload.

Monitor the breaker: After resetting, slowly turn on appliances one by one. If the breaker trips again immediately, this indicates a more serious issue, such as a short circuit or wiring problem.

While resetting the breaker is simple, it’s essential to follow these steps carefully to avoid further damage to the electrical system or injury.

Identifying Overloads and Fixing the Root Cause

Overloading is one of the most common causes of breaker trips. An overload happens when too many devices draw current from a single circuit, exceeding the breaker’s amp rating. For example, running heavy appliances like a microwave, refrigerator, and space heater simultaneously on one circuit could easily trip the breaker.

To address an overload, begin by identifying the appliances or devices connected to the circuit. After resetting the breaker, you can start plugging in appliances one at a time to see if the breaker trips. If the breaker trips when you turn on a specific device, that device may be faulty or draw too much power for the circuit.

The best way to prevent overloads is by distributing the load across multiple circuits. Heavy appliances should ideally have their dedicated circuits to avoid overloading. For example, large kitchen appliances and HVAC systems often require their circuit. You can also upgrade the wiring or breaker if it is outdated and incapable of handling modern electrical demands.

In some cases, an electrician might need to install additional circuits to spread out the load more evenly. A professional electrician can assess your electrical system and provide recommendations to prevent future overloads and keep your system functioning smoothly.

Checking for Short Circuits and Ground Faults

Short circuits and ground faults are serious electrical issues that require immediate attention. A short circuit occurs when two live wires—hot and neutral—come into contact. This contact causes a massive increase in electrical current, which triggers the breaker to trip almost instantly. Short circuits are typically caused by damaged wiring, faulty appliances, or loose electrical connections.

To check for a short circuit, follow these steps:

Unplug all appliances and reset the breaker. If it holds, plug in each appliance one at a time. If the breaker trips again when you plug in a specific device, that device may have a short circuit.
If the breaker trips immediately after resetting without plugging anything in, the issue may be with the wiring or the breaker itself.
A ground fault, on the other hand, occurs when a live wire comes into contact with the ground or the metal casing of an appliance. Ground faults are dangerous because they can lead to electric shocks. Ground faults can be detected by a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI), which is designed to shut off power quickly if it detects a ground fault.

If you suspect either a short circuit or a ground fault, it’s important to stop using the affected circuit and call a qualified electrician to fix the wiring or faulty appliance.

When to Replace a Breaker That Trips Frequently

Frequent breaker tripping could indicate that it’s time to replace the breaker itself. Circuit breakers are designed to trip when they detect a fault, but over time, they can become worn out or damaged due to frequent tripping, overuse, or age.

Here are some signs that your breaker might need to be replaced:

Age: Most breakers are designed to last for several decades, but if yours is old and trips frequently, it might be failing.
Physical damage: If you notice any scorching, burning smells, or visible damage to the breaker, it should be replaced immediately.
Frequent tripping: If you’ve ruled out overloads, short circuits, and ground faults, but the breaker continues to trip, the breaker itself may be faulty.
It’s important to consult with a licensed electrician before replacing a breaker. The electrician will perform tests to ensure the breaker is indeed the issue and not a symptom of a larger electrical problem, such as faulty wiring. A professional replacement ensures that the new breaker is compatible with your electrical panel and meets the system’s amp requirements.

Regular maintenance and timely replacement of breakers can ensure the safety and efficiency of your electrical system, preventing hazards like electrical fires or damaged appliances.

Conclusion

Fixing a breaker that keeps tripping involves diagnosing the root cause, whether it’s due to overloads, short circuits, or ground faults. Safely resetting the breaker and checking for faulty appliances or wiring is key to resolving the issue. In some cases, frequent tripping may indicate that the breaker itself is worn out and needs to be replaced. Always ensure that your electrical load is distributed correctly and consult a professional if you’re unsure of the cause or if the breaker continues to trip frequently.