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Why Is My Circuit Breaker Tripping? 4 Potential Problems and Solutions

By Glenda Taylor , Bob Vila , Evelyn Auer

Updated on Dec 21, 2023 8:55 PM EST

6 minute read

Photo: istockphoto.com

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Q: Every few hours—sometimes minutes!—my living room and one side of my kitchen lose electrical power. I’ll check the breaker panel and, sure enough, a circuit breaker has tripped…again. Should I call an electrician, or is there a simple DIY fix I can try first?

A: While it’s frustrating when a circuit breaker keeps tripping, they are important safety mechanisms. Designed to shut off the electrical current when something goes wrong, circuit breakers are one of the best ways of protecting a home from an electrical fire. “When a circuit breaker trips, typically it is because we use too much electricity, which causes it to overload and turn off,” says Christopher Haas, expert electrician and owner of Haas & Sons Electric in Millersville, Maryland. For those who need an electrical panels 101 refresher course or aren’t sure how to reset circuit breakers, each breaker has an on/off switch and controls a separate electrical circuit in the home. When a breaker trips, its switch automatically flips “off,” and it must be manually turned back on to restore electricity to the circuit. For those wondering, “Is it dangerous if a circuit breaker keeps tripping?” the answer is that it can be, depending on the source of the problem. An electrician can ultimately deal with the root issue, but a little sleuthing will reveal whether it’s something that’s easily remedied.

In many cases, the cause of a circuit breaking tripping is an overloaded circuit.

A circuit overloads when more electrical current is being drawn through the wires than they can handle, tripping the circuit breaker. If this happens, there may be a few additional signs:

• Buzzing noises coming from outlets
• Devices charging slowly
• Electrical outlets not working
• Flickering lights
• Scorch marks on outlets and light switches

If a circuit breaker keeps tripping in one room, homeowners can test for circuit overload by turning off all the switches in the affected area and unplugging all appliances and devices. After the breaker is flipped back on, the devices can be turned back on one at a time, with homeowners waiting a few minutes in between to see if the circuit remains on. If the breaker trips before all the appliances are turned on, the experiment can be repeated, this time turning them on in a different order. It may be necessary to do this several times to find out how many appliances can be operated at once before the circuit overloads.

“As a short-term solution, you can unplug unnecessary appliances to prevent tripping circuit breakers. You may still get some trips, but you can limit them by unplugging devices that you don’t need to use,” advises Dan Mock, vice president of operations at Mister Sparky , an electrical company with 90 locations in the U.S. The best long-term solution, however, is to pay an electrician for the cost to rewire the house and add additional circuits. The cost to replace an electrical panel is about $1,274 on average.

Other times, the issue may be caused by a short circuit.

A “short” circuit means that two wires that should not be coming into contact are inadvertently touching, triggering a sudden surge of electricity through the wires. A short can occur in an outlet, a switch, or within an appliance if wires are loose or have been chewed through by mice or pets. Some signs of a short circuit include:

• Popping sounds
• Discolored outlets or switches
• Burning smells

Testing to see if an appliance has a short is similar to testing for an overloaded circuit. When an appliance that has a short in its wiring is turned on, it will immediately trip the circuit. Homeowners can also try plugging it into an outlet in a different room. If the breaker for that room trips, there’s a short in the appliance (if it’s unclear what breaker goes to what room, the breaker can be identified with one of the best circuit breaker finders ). Electrical shorts can be a major fire hazard, so it’s a good idea to call a licensed electrician for this circuit breaker repair. It’s wise to stop using the outlet or appliance until a pro takes care of the problem.

Another potential cause of a circuit breaker tripping is a ground fault.

A ground fault occurs when the electricity running through a home’s wiring diverts from the wiring loop and travels to the ground, usually due to faulty wiring or water infiltration in an outlet or switch box. Water is a conductor, which is why walking through puddles is often listed as something not to do in a power outage in case of downed power lines. Once water makes contact with wires, electricity can jump from the wiring loop and follow the water trail. This creates a surge in electricity leading to a tripped circuit breaker. If a person comes in contact with the electricity that is on its way to the ground, this can result in electrocution. Homeowners may notice a few signs of a ground fault, including:

• Tripped GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets;
• A burning smell coming from an outlet; and
• Lights flickering.

Newer electrical breakers have features designed to protect against the danger of ground faults. According to Haas, “Ground fault breakers sense electricity going to earth as opposed to going through the wires of the circuit. You’ll find [these] for bathrooms, kitchens, garages, exteriors, and basements.” GFCI outlets are another safety feature that shut off the electric current within a fraction of a second of sensing a ground fault.

If a ground fault is the problem, the cause of the errant water must be discovered and repaired, and any damaged wiring must also be replaced. It’s also a good idea to install GFCI outlets in rooms where water is commonly used. A GFCI outlet costs $210 on average.

Sometimes a bad or worn-out circuit breaker can be the culprit.

In some cases, the circuit breaker itself may be faulty. Breakers that are old, damaged, or were installed incorrectly may trip frequently for no apparent reason. Alternatively, faulty breakers may not trip when they are supposed to, leaving the home at risk of electrical fire. Some signs of a bad circuit breaker include:

• The circuit breaker getting hot and tripping frequently;
• The circuit breaker won’t reset;
• It has been over 10 years since the breaker was last serviced; and
• The breaker has scorch marks.

An important electrical safety tip to keep in mind is that resetting a breaker over and over again can cause what is called an arc flash, which is a small electrical explosion that can be deadly. If resetting the breaker once does not remedy the issue, it’s a good idea for the homeowner to hire an electrician near them who knows how to replace a circuit breaker safely. Mock warns, “Don’t take any chances with circuit breakers. Instead, call a licensed electrician who knows the safe ways to replace breaker boxes, upgrade circuits, and diagnose potential electrical problems in your home.” Wiring a breaker box is a job to leave to an experienced electrician.

A professional electrician can help determine the specific cause of a frequently tripping circuit breaker.

Most circuit breaker problems—aside from those explained in the sections above—will need to be inspected and addressed by a licensed electrician. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) , each year “thousands of people in the United States are critically injured and electrocuted as a result of electrical fires, accidents, [or] electrocution in their own homes.” While homeowners may be tempted to save on electrician costs by attempting circuit breaker replacement or repair themselves, electrical work is not suitable for casual DIYers. “Yes, you have to pay, but you can save many hours of head-scratching by hiring an electrician. Electricians will also have all the right tools for diagnosing and repairing the circuit,” Haas adds. “Lastly, they will come with a warranty/guarantee should something arise, and they will typically return at no additional cost.”

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Circuit Breaker Tripping: Troubleshooting Guide

Hubert Miles | Licensed Home Inspector, CMI, CPI

Updated on January 5, 2024

A circuit breaker tripping results from short circuits, overloaded circuits, and ground faults. In each case, an unintended excessive flow of current triggers the trip. You must reset the circuit breaker by flipping it back on to restore power.

Circuit breakers trip because they cannot handle the amount of current running through them. Tripping the circuit breaker interrupts the flow of electricity and protects your devices or appliances from damage.

Get FREE estimates from licensed electricians in your area today. Whether you need to replace an outlet, hang a ceiling fan, a new electrical panel, or repair wiring, We Can Help!

Without electrical circuit breakers , the possibility of electrical fires would be much higher.  

This guide looks at what causes circuit breakers to trip, what you can do, and how to identify a bad breaker.

What Would Cause a Circuit Breaker to Trip

There are three leading causes of circuit breaker trips:

• circuit overload
• electrical faults (i.e., ground faults and arc faults)
• short circuits

Below are factors that can cause circuit breaker trips. 

Circuit Overload

A circuit overload happens when the flow of electric current running through the circuit exceeds the amperage of the devices it serves. 

For example, if your microwave is a 12.5 amp appliance, you can run it on a 15 amp circuit. That means your microwave is safe as long as the amperage running through the circuit is 15 amps .

However, if the circuit receives an excessive electrical load over 15 amps , it will automatically trip to protect your device from damage. If the circuit doesn’t trip, the excess current will fry the circuit in your microwave. 

Also, if you operate too many appliances and devices on one circuit, its internal mechanism heats up, causing the breaker to trip. 

Circuit overload is the most common reason for breakers tripping. 

Ground Faults

A ground fault occurs when the active wire comes into contact with a ground wire made of bare copper. Sometimes, this fault may happen when the hot wire touches the metal box connected to the ground wire.

Excessive current flows once the active wire touches the ground wire, flowing into the earth. If you step on the affected area, ground faults can cause shock and even electrocution. The uncontrolled flow of electricity will cause the circuit breaker to trip.

Arc Faults 

An arc fault happens when exposed faulty wiring touches, causing the electric current to arc at the meeting point. As a result, sparks occur, which can ignite an electric fire.

A corroded or loose connection is the main culprit for arc faults. Circuit overloads, ground faults, or short circuits trip an AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) circuit breaker.

Arc faults result from damaged, loose, or corroded terminals and wires. The arc fault builds up over time as the heat due to the cable damage and terminals build up to the point of ignition.

Short Circuits

A short circuit occurs when an active wire touches a neutral wire, and the electrical current takes an unintended path of least resistance. 

The common cause of short circuits is frayed wires coming into contact when the wires touch. The electrical current flow increases significantly, causing the circuit breaker to trip to stop the electricity from damaging appliances.

It is a short circuit because the current bypasses the proper circuit wiring channels and flows through a shorter, unplanned pathway.

Short circuits occur 

• When insulation melts and wires are exposed
• Within appliances with damaged internal wiring
• Due to damaged and frayed extension or appliance cords

How do You Fix a Breaker that Keeps Tripping?

A dedicated circuit breaker tripping indicates too much current flowing through the wiring or connection to the outlet.

Here is a step-by-step guide to follow when you notice the first trip:

• Begin by turning off all the appliances and unplug electrical devices from the outlet. Also, switch off light fixtures and unplug those that you can. This prevents any appliances from damaged when the breaker is reset and a sudden surge of power comes through.
• Open the circuit panel or box and locate the on and off buttons of the circuit breaker. You may notice an orange or red color on the breaker when it is off. 
• Flip the switch from off to on to reset the circuit breaker. Once the breaker is reset, you can switch and test the appliances to see if the electrical power is flowing.
• Keep safe as you reset the breaker by working from the side of the electrical box instead of the front. That way, you will avoid any sparks (should there be any) when you switch the breaker back on.
• Some people prefer to switch the main electrical switch when working on the circuit breaker for added safety. 

Types of Circuit Breakers

Standard circuit breaker.

Standard circuit breakers monitor the modulation of the electric current coming into your devices and appliances. 

This circuit breaker stops the current from flowing when it detects the excessive flow of electricity. 

Standard circuit breakers come in two forms:

• Single-pole circuit breakers
• Double pole circuit breakers

Single-Pole Circuit Breakers

Single-pole circuit breakers are the most common breakers in homes and buildings. They monitor the electric current’s flow in one wire and trip if that wire experiences a very high influx of electricity.

These breakers deliver only 120 volts and work well for 15 to 30 amp circuits. Single-pole circuit breakers come with one switch in the back. 

Double-Pole Circuit Breakers

The double-pole circuit breakers monitor the current in two wires simultaneously. You will notice two switches on the back of these breakers.

The double-pole circuit breakers will trip even if only one of the wires receives too much current. They can accommodate between 15 to 200 amps while delivering 240 volts. 

Single-pole breakers are a good fit for lighting fixtures and other standard home outlets. On the other hand, double-pole breakers work for larger appliances like dryers and washing machines. 

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)

The GFCI circuit breaker interrupts the line due to ground faults. They trip when the current starts to follow an uncharted path into the ground. These ground fault surges occur when a foreign conductor, like water, comes in contact with a receptacle .

At the same time, they offer protection against circuit overloads and short circuits. 

GFCI circuit breakers come built into specialized outlets required for wet areas in the home, including :

• Outdoor areas like the balcony, patio, porches, and decks
• Laundry rooms
• Swimming pools
• Six feet from a sink
• Six feet from the bathroom

These breakers help prevent shock or electrocution should the electrical outlet contact water. 

Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) 

The AFCI circuit breaker detects normal and abnormal arc faults, so it will trip when it detects a dangerous arc fault that can cause a fire. 

The AFCI circuit breaker doesn’t work to protect devices and appliances plugged into an outlet. It works to prevent electrical fires due to faulty connections and wiring. The internal sensing mechanism in the circuit breaker senses the conditions of an electric arc, and the circuit trips to avoid an electric fire.

AFCI protection can also be built into an outlet. The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires these types of breakers to feature in :

• Common rooms
• Laundry areas

AFCI and GFCI circuit breakers can co-exist and complement each other for the best protection.

Combination All Fault Circuit Interrupter (CAFCI)

The CAFCI breaker senses and reacts to any electrical fault, including ground and arc faults.

CAFCI is a relatively new technology that meets new NEC requirements for circuits requiring arc and ground fault protection.

Do Circuit Breakers Get Weak?

A circuit breaker can wear out and become weak. If a breaker trips frequently, the thermal or magnetic element can lose calibration, causing it to trip at lower amp loads than intended. A breaker constantly under thermal stress caused by overloading the circuit will eventually trip more frequently.

Let’s not forget breakers are not impervious to damage. As the internal mechanical parts wear out, they become very sensitive and may not hold under normal load amperage and temperatures.

Electricians refer to this as a bad breaker .

Will a Bad Breaker Keep Tripping

By definition, bad breaker malfunctions, so it will keep tripping until it is either replaced or rectified .

A licensed electrician performs this simple test to see if a breaker will keep tripping and determine if it can be repaired or replaced in the following steps.

• The electrician will switch off all the fixtures and appliances in the house. Also, unplug everything.
• Find the malfunctioning circuit breaker . The electrician will go to the electrical box and locate the breaker lighting orange or red or the one with the switch off.
• They will ascertain that it is the correct circuit breaker. After that, the electrician puts the breaker off.
• With the switch on, the breaker is back on as well. The electrician will plug the appliances into the outlet with the problem circuit breaker. Now, they will turn the devices and appliances on. 

If the breaker trips, the electrician will investigate the circuit’s current amount. The breaker is bad if the current is according to the appliance’s rating.

How You know if a Circuit Breaker is Bad

Breakers do wear out after a while. It has a problem if the breaker doesn’t stay on after resetting it.

Since the circuit breaker controls the electric flow in the house, it is essential to monitor it and catch signs that it has gone bad early.

Here are key signs that denote a bad circuit breaker :

It Frequently Trips

Frequent tripping could be because of a bad breaker. After tripping and resetting, your circuit breaker should stay on unless it detects high current flow. 

To ensure that the issue is not the electricity but the circuit breaker, call an electrician to examine your electricity’s flow and determine whether it is the cause of the constant tripping.

If it is not, then the circuit breaker is the problem. 

The Breaker Overheats

Electrical systems will heat up when active. Typically a breaker can heat to about 60°C (140°F) before problems arise.

Terminations for standard rated breakers: UL 489 Paragraph 7.1.4.2.2 says the temperature rise on a wiring terminal at a point to which the insulation of a wire is brought up as in actual service shall not exceed 50°C (122°F). Terminations for 100% rated breakers: UL489 Paragraph 7.1.4.3.3 says the temperature rise on the termination shall not exceed 60°C (140°F). Handles, knobs, and other user surfaces: UL489 Paragraph 7.1.4.1.6 says the maximum temperature on handles, knobs, and other surfaces subject to user contact during normal operation shall not exceed 60°C (140°F) on metallic and 85°C (185°F) on nonmetallic surfaces. Source: https://www.clipsal.com/faq/fa173839

Call an electrician immediately if the breaker becomes too hot.

There are Scorch Marks

Scorch marks around receptacles, appliances, and the electrical box should tell you your circuit breaker has gone bad.

The burn marks indicate that wiring insulation has melted off and the circuit wires are now sparking and emanating heat or fire. That means that the circuit breaker did not interrupt the excess current and reached the wires and burned them. 

You may see melted wire sheathing on the wire where it connects to the breaker.

Professional electricians can use a  thermal imaging infrared camera to locate the heat source. The infrared camera allows them to pinpoint the problem area through the walls and other construction material.

A Burning Smell

Sometimes you may smell the insulation burning, but no scorch marks are present to denote which outlet is the problem. 

With the help of the infrared camera, an electrician can help locate electrical issues. 

If you encounter a burning odor, shut off the main power and call for emergency service from an electrician. 

The electrical wires burn because power surges through the circuit, melting the wire insulation.

What is Nuisance Tripping

Nuisance tripping is when a breaker trips without a fault to warrant the interruption to the electric current flow.

Nuisance tripping occurs due to several reasons:

Stringent Protection on Circuits 

Sometimes the circuit is protected by stringent conditions that detect any variance as a fault and cause a trip. 

Such stringent conditions can be tuned to accommodate the home’s or building’s electric needs.

A Highly Sensitive Circuit Breaker

In some cases, the circuit breaker has been set to susceptible settings so that they can detect even the slightest fault, even a minor average variance.

For example, the manufacturer can set an AFCI circuit breaker to sensitive standards to detect another circuit’s arc. This common issue may occur in a daisy chain where the circuit breakers connect in a linear series. There may be a faulty electrical outlet you are unaware of on the circuit. It is common for multiple rooms to share a breaker in older houses.

The Breaker Encounters Power Under Different Conditions

The variation in the current is normal, but the breaker responds to it by tripping because the flow is outside the breaker’s regular operation.

Your circuit breaker is tripping because the voltage it is encountering is not within the standard operation. You will need to adjust the circuit breaker or the voltage to eliminate nuisance tripping.

The Breaker Trips with Nothing Plugged in

A breaker tripping with nothing plugged in occurs when a hot, neutral wire is touching somewhere in the circuit. The common causes include frayed or damaged electrical wires, loose connections, faulty electrical receptacles, light switches , or dimmers.

Electrical wire damage happens when:

• wiring is chewed by animals such as rats, squirrels , raccoons, etc
• wire sheathing and insulation ages and become frayed
• wires rub against sharp edges such as punch-outs with missing grommets or wire clamps

Loose connections often occur when electrical wire nuts come loose or electrical tape wears out causing wires to touch.

Defective wiring can be anywhere along the circuit, so it’s best to contact a licensed electrician to troubleshoot why the breaker is tripping.

Replacing a Bad Circuit Breaker

• Check the electrical panel to see the compatible approved circuit breaker brands. Also, make a note of the brand of the electric panel . This is to help you determine if there are upgrades they could recommend for the hardware.
• Order online or go to the hardware store and purchase the breaker of the same voltage as the one you are replacing.
• Go and open the electrical box and switch off the bad breaker. Loosen the terminals and remove the wires using a pair of needle-nosed pliers. Ensure the pliers have rubber insulated handles to avoid shock or electrocution since you will use the pliers to grab the live wires from the terminal. That is a safety measure.
• Remove the bad breaker. Replace it with the new breaker and slip its clips into place. Remember to switch off the replacement breaker.
• Next, using the pliers, hold the wiring and tighten the screws on the terminal. It is crucial to ensure that the wires and screws in the terminals are in the right place.
• Turn the breaker on and replace the electrical panel cover.

Can a Breaker Fail Without Tipping

If you have a newer electrical panel , it’s not likely for a breaker to fail and not trip. However, in older breaker boxes like Federal Pacific , the breaker failing to trip is common.

The main reason Federal Pacific was investigated by the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) was widespread structure fires involving breakers failing to trip when an electrical overload was present. They found that the circuit breaker contacts would fuse to the bus bar.

Modern breakers will trip when a failure occurs as an added layer of safety. Most older breakers did not have these safeguards.

With AFCI breakers, if the Internal sensing mechanism fails, the breaker reverts to a standard breaker. The AFCI sensor mechanism will no longer work, but the breaker would still trip from overcurrent protection. Therefore, you should test the AFCI breaker regularly.

Conclusion 

Listen to your circuit breaker . It’s alerting you of a problem when it trips. That communication could be a problem with the breaker itself, the circuit, or the amount of electric current coming into your home.

Hubert Miles is a licensed home inspector (RBI# 2556) with more than two decades of experience in inspection and construction. Since 2008, he has been serving South Carolina through his company, Patriot Home Inspections LLC. As a Certified Master Inspector, Hubert is dedicated to providing his expertise in home inspections, repairs, maintenance, and DIY projects.

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Breaker Tripping With Nothing Plugged In (Why & How to Fix)

When we think of a circuit breaker that keeps tripping, common wisdom would be that you’re dealing with a home that’s using up too much energy. So, if it’s happening to you, you might unplug some stuff. But, sometimes, the breaker just will keep tripping regardless of how much stuff you unplug. Clearly, it’s not energy consumption anymore. So, what gives?

A circuit breaker can trip when there is nothing plugged in if there is a ground fault or the circuit breaker is outdated. Damaged wires within the circuit breaker can cause it to keep tripping for no reason. The average circuit breaker lasts for 35 years, and they can trip with nothing plugged in when they are over 30 years old.

Circuit breakers are necessary to prevent electrical problems, expensive damage, and most importantly fires. It can be alarming when your circuit breaker keeps tripping when there is nothing plugged in. Follow along as we explore what it means when your circuit breaker trips for no apparent reason.

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Why Would A Circuit Breaker Trip Without Anything Plugged In?

A breaker is meant to break electrical currents due to an overload, so it really shouldn’t be breaking without anything plugged in. This means that you might be dealing with an electrical issue regarding the breaker. This can be potentially dangerous, so it’s important to troubleshoot this as soon as possible, and call an electrician to fix it.

Troubleshooting Your Circuit Breaker

So, you already know that you’ve got a breaker that’s not doing what it’s supposed to do. What should you do now? The answer, clearly, is that you are gonna have to troubleshoot your circuit breaker . Here’s how to do it:

• Before anything else, check to see that you don’t have anything that could be causing the breaker to trip.  If your breaker’s tripping is related to two rooms, check to see that it’s not your DJ equipment or extra-large entertainment set up in the next room that’s causing it.
•  Check the input wires for damage.  If you notice that they’re frayed or have reason to believe that their movement is causing the breaks, call an electrician. You need to get the input wires replaced or fixed.
• Reset the breaker. Remove all connected items in your room from their plugs and reset your breaker. If it breaks again, then there is an issue that you have to fix.
• Keep an eye out for signs of a short circuit, fuse issue, or ground fault. When you’re dealing with a short circuit, you might notice a burn mark or a smell near an outlet. With a ground fault break or fuse issue, you may have a problem with wiring overheating or being exposed to water. If you believe you have an issue with this, give an electrician a call.
• If all else fails, you have a faulty breaker.  Even circuit breakers will eventually need to be replaced. They will eventually go bad. If you can’t find anything else wrong, it’s time to get a new circuit breaker. If you’ve had your circuit breaker for a very long time, it’s possible that your breaker just ran its course and needs to be replaced.

However, there are several problems that range from a ground fault to an outdated circuit breaker that you need to consider. Let’s take a look a the most common reasons that your circuit breaker keeps tripping when nothing is plugged in.

Ground Fault

A ground fault, or earth fault, is when an active wire touches the earth . Ground faults occur when a wire and the ground interact and overload the circuit breaker with the current. There is no resistance or restrictions with the earth, so an unrestricted flow of current goes through the wire and to the circuit breaker.

A ground fault is similar to a short circuit because the current bypasses the circuit wiring . The reaction from a ground fault is immediate, and the circuit will immediately flow uncontrollably. Between the lack of resistance and increased current flow, a ground fault can trip your circuit breaker and potentially damage it permanently.

Electricians treat a ground fault differently than a short circuit, but both problems require a fix. Ground faults are dangerous to fix or come into contact with, and there is potential for electrical shock.

Outdated Circuit Breaker

Circuit breakers have a lifespan just like any other key electrical fixture in your home. The average circuit breaker lasts for 35 years , but they can last for up to 40 years. You can generally tell that your circuit breaker is outdated when it acts up, and old breakers often trip when nothing is plugged in.

Worn breakers are less conductive and reliable, and they are often difficult or impossible to reset . Old circuit breakers produce a distinct burning smell that can be alarming. The voltage and current strength on an outdated circuit breaker are unpredictable and fluctuate wildly.

If your circuit breaker is nearly 30 years old and often feels hot, it is likely outdated . Replace your old circuit breaker if it frequently trips with nothing plugged in after you reset it

Old homes have different wiring configurations than modern homes, and that can affect your circuit breaker. Generally, old homes have circuit breakers that work via a single circuit. A single circuit is not enough to keep up with the electrical demands of modern homes .

Homes that are 40-50 years old or older likely have single circuit units that affect multiple outlets and even rooms. Your circuit breaker can trip even if there is nothing plugged in if you have an old home with outdated wiring and an underpowered single circuit system. The only solution, in this case, is to replace your circuit breaker and update your wiring.

Short Circuit

Similar to a ground fault, a short circuit occurs when the electrical flow goes through a short path that it wasn’t supposed to . A short circuit can easily occur if the insulation on a wire is damaged and leaves them exposed. The most common cause for a short circuit is when multiple wires become exposed and touch each other.

The current essentially takes a shortcut instead of going through the circuit wiring. Short circuits cause a massive spike in current flow that overloads the circuit breaker and causes it to trip. It is good that your circuit breaker trips during a short circuit because that can prevent expensive and harmful damage.

Lamps, electric space heaters, and plug-in appliances commonly cause short circuits. Luckily, modern devices generally have well-insulated wires to prevent short circuits. However, a short circuit can happen when nothing is plugged in because the breaker’s wires themselves can cause a short.

Damaged Wires

The wires inside of and connected to a circuit breaker are well-protected, but they can still succumb to damage. Wires are covered with insulation that can melt over time and leave them vulnerable to damage. You should be concerned if you have a damaged input wire because that can be dangerous to touch or work with .

A damaged wire can cause a current leak and your circuit breaker will trip when it recognizes it. This is a safety precaution and prevents the current from going where it shouldn’t and causing a bigger problem. It is ideal to hire a professional electrician to repair damaged wires in your circuit breaker because it is complicated and potentially dangerous.

How Much Does It Cost To Replace a Circuit Breaker?

It costs an average of $1,250 to replace an entire circuit breaker box . However, you can expect to pay $1,800 or more for an upgraded circuit breaker box, but it may be worth the added safety. Replacing single switches on a circuit breaker is much cheaper and that generally costs $45 per switch .

You can spend as little as $205 to replace an AFCI circuit breaker in some cases, but it can cost $280 or more. It is worth the cost to replace a circuit breaker because it is difficult and dangerous to replace one without professional help. However, you need to refer to local building codes if you replace your circuit breaker as a DIY project to save money.

Can You Replace A Circuit Breaker On Your Own?

Technically, most people would agree that this could be a DIY job. However, I’m a little skeptical. With electricity, working on it without much knowledge of what you’re doing is a lot like trying to shoot an arrow up in the air and hope that it won’t hit anything. You might be fine, but you might not be.

If you choose to go the DIY way, just make sure that your local building codes allow you to do this. Many cities now require all electrical work to be done through the use of a certified electrician. So, if you aren’t sure, check with your local municipal office to find out whether DIY is an option.

Related Questions

How long do circuit breakers last.

Circuit breakers last for an average of 35 years , but they can last for up to 40 years. You can tell that you need to replace your circuit breaker if it won’t hold a reset or you notice a burning smell coming from it. Generally, circuit breakers become less conductive when they are old and trip more often.

Why does the circuit breaker trip when lightning strikes

A circuit breaker can trip when lightning strikes because it detects the thousands of amps that come from it . The current from a lightning strike is overwhelming and would overload your home’s electrical grid. It can trip even if the lighting doesn’t touch your house because a circuit breaker can detect the current in the earth or air.

Ossiana Tepfenhart is an expert writer, focusing on interior design and general home tips. Writing is her life, and it's what she does best. Her interests include art and real estate investments.

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Master electrician Heath Eastman shows host Kevin O’Connor everything he needs to know about why and how breakers trip.

Heath Eastman talks about circuit breakers. Heath shows Kevin O’Connor that while resetting these breakers is simple, these are complex devices that monitor and protect circuits. First, the two talk about the different sizes of breakers before moving on to the different types. Finally, Heath shows Kevin how to test certain breakers to ensure they’re working properly.

Circuit breakers exist to protect people, appliances, and homes from dangerous electrical current. However, few people understand why the trip and how they operate. Master electrician Heath Eastman shows host Kevin O’Connor why this happens, and even explains a few different types of breakers.

All About Electrical Systems

Breakers protect circuits.

When electricity comes into the house, it flows through the electrical service panel. From there, the electricity flows out through different branches in the house, each controlled by a circuit breaker. Should a branch begin to overload and overheat, the breaker will trip to prevent damage.

Breaker Sizes

There are two main sizes of breakers in a house: 15 amp and 20 amp. The amp rating explains how much current the breaker can handle before it will trip, and each requires a certain size of wire. Fifteen-amp breakers require a 14-gauge wire, while 20-amp breakers require a 12-gauge wire.

How They Work

A 15-amp breaker won’t necessarily trip the moment it experiences a spike above 15 amps. Many devices draw more amps upon start-up, and these breakers allow those temporary spikes. However, should the breaker sense elevated amperage for longer than is typical, it will trip to prevent the circuit from overheating.

GFCIs and AFCIs

Beyond circuit overload protection, there are other types of breakers that offer additional coverage. These include GFCI breakers and relatively-new AFCI breakers .

GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) breakers need to experience the same amount of current going out as coming back through the circuit. If the breaker experiences a drop in returning current, it assumes that the circuit is leaking, whether it be through a water source or a person. When this imbalance occurs, the GFCI trips immediately.

AFCI (arc fault circuit interrupter) breakers sense when the circuit, a device, or an appliance is arcing (the current is jumping from the circuit and onto something else or someone). When the breaker recognizes the arc signature, it trips immediately. These breakers are relatively new and look similar to GFCI breakers, but they’re becoming a code requirement in most locations.

How to Test Breakers

Homeowners, electricians, and inspectors can test their breakers. There are devices that users can plug into an outlet and replicate an error. These devices, known as AFCI/GFCI testers, can trip the breaker altogether or replicate a ground or arc fault, triggering the breaker. This is one of the best ways to ensure that a breaker is working properly.

When to Call a Professional

If a circuit is continuously tripping, or you know that it should be tripping and isn’t, be sure to call in a professional. An electrician will be able to determine the cause of the issue and make sure your circuit breakers and electrical system are safe.

Heath explains what a circuit breaker is, why they trip and how it protects a home. A circuit breaker is a device, installed in the electrical panel, that controls whether power can be sent from the panel through a circuit. Heath explains this ability is controlled by a switch that can be operated either manually—like when a person wants to interrupt power for service—or automatically, like a breaker trip.

He says power overloads, current “leaks”, and arcs are the three reasons that would cause a breaker to trip. A Power overload happens when a device is calling for more power than a receptacle , or a circuit is designed to provide. Current “leaks” are caused when current strays from the circuit for whatever reason, though it happens most commonly when moisture is present. Arcs can happen when the wire breaks down over time (due to overloads but also due to other factors, like animals chewing the wire and other decay) but what Heath sees the most is human error.

If a specific receptacle is consistently tripping the breaker, Heath advises to have a licensed electrician identify the problem to ensure the work is done safely.

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Why Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping & How to Fix It

Have you noticed that your outlet keeps tripping? At first, it may seem like a one-time problem, but when it consistently happens, you’ll need to get to the bottom of it. Whether you are having problems with your circuit breaker, outlets, or any other aspect of your electrical system, it’s important to consult experienced electricians who can find the right solution to your issues.

Consistent tripping not only disrupts your daily routine but can also be a potential red flag for more significant underlying issues. Electricians with ample experience can find the cause of the problem and the right solution to ensure the safety and reliability of your circuit breaker and the overall electrical system.

By seeking professional guidance, you can restore peace of mind and avoid potentially hazardous situations associated with electrical malfunctions.

Is It Dangerous If a Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping?

If your circuit breaker is consistently tripping, it can potentially pose some safety risks. The main concern is that when the breaker trips, it’s a sign that there is an issue within your electrical system. If left unaddressed, these issues could lead to overheating, electrical fires, or damage to the system itself.

So, while the tripping itself isn’t harmful, it serves as a warning signal that there’s an underlying problem that, if ignored, could result in hazardous electrical incidents. It’s important to address the cause promptly with electrical inspections to maintain a safe electrical environment.

What Causes a Breaker to Keep Tripping?

There are many reasons a breaker keeps tripping. From overworking your electrical system to having appliances improperly installed, you need to ensure that your home is safe and secure before using electronics or other items that require electricity.

If you notice any of these issues in your home, reach out to an electrician immediately:

• Your Circuits Are Overloaded: A circuit breaker gets its name because it is made to break the circuit when there is too much current running through it. If you have a 20 amp circuit, for example, and you try to run 30 amps through it, the circuit breaker will block the circuit and trip to keep your home safe from the amperage overload. If you have too much plugged into one outlet, try unplugging some of the things connected to the outlet.
• You’re in Need of a Heavy-Up: Alternatively, you could contact one of our electricians at GAC Services to find out how many amps your circuit can handle and make sure your appliances aren’t running at a higher amperage! If that’s the case, you may be in need of an upgrade or heavy-up.
• Your Circuits Are Shorting: This problem is a little more serious, as it has to do with the actual wiring in your home. There are different wires attached to your outlet. When two hot wires touch each other, or a hot wire touches a neutral wire, this can cause a short. If you suspect this may be the issue, it is best to have an expert check it out.
• You’re Experiencing a Ground Fault: Just like a short circuit, a ground fault happens when the hot wire touches something it shouldn’t, such as the metal outlet box. Just like a short, it is best to have a professional take a look if you suspect this is what is causing your circuit breaker to keep tripping, since hot wires can be very dangerous.
• Your Appliances Are Faulty: Sometimes, a faulty appliance (even something simple like a hair dryer, toaster, or lamp) can cause a circuit to trip over and over again. This issue is usually easy to diagnose, and the best way to get rid of the problem is to replace the appliance!
• You Have Bad Wiring: If an outlet has not been wired correctly, this can cause the breaker to trip. If you keep getting the same results from an outlet, no matter what you try, it’s time to have an electrician check the outlet to make sure the wiring was installed correctly.

What to Do When a Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping

If you have a circuit that tends to trip over and over again, there are several things you can do. If the circuit has way too many things plugged into the circuit, you may want to unplug a few appliances and see if this fixes the problem.

If just one appliance is causing the issue, plug a different appliance in and see if the circuit trips. If it doesn’t, then you know that the appliance is likely the problem—and that means it’s either time to replace the appliance or get a dedicated electrical panel or circuit breaker installed.

If an overloaded circuit or a bad appliance doesn’t seem to be the problem, it is time to call an expert in. It is a good idea not to take care of electrical issues yourself, since handling wiring and electrical components in your home can be dangerous.

If you need help with any electrical repairs in the Gaithersburg area, reach out to the team at GAC Services . Our dedicated technicians will thoroughly inspect and repair your system and ensure your safety. Contact us today or call us at (301) 835-1095, and we’ll figure out what is tripping the breaker.

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What to Do If Your Circuit Breaker Trips

Basically, electric current flows into your home into the breaker box (usually built in the garage or in the basement in the home) where it’s split into a number of circuits and sent throughout the house.

For rooms that only need electrical power for small things like lighting fixtures and televisions, you usually only need 15-amp circuits. For rooms with bigger appliances, such as the kitchen or bathroom, you’ll usually have 20-amp circuits. Certain appliances, like the oven or dryer, are so power consuming they need 30 – 50-amp circuits all to themselves! When it is said that a circuit breaker “trips,” it means that circuit has detected what’s known as a fault condition and has shut itself off to prevent the wiring from overheating and potentially igniting itself.

Resetting a tripped circuit breaker is generally pretty easy – you just need to go back to the electrical panel, find the circuit that’s not facing the same direction as the rest and flip it back to it’s original setting. If the breaker trips again right after you do this, that’s a problem – you’ll have to figure out the cause of the problem before you can fix it.

If your circuit breaker trips right after being reset, you could be facing one of three issues:

•  an overloaded circuit
•  a short circuit
•  a ground fault

Overloaded Circuit

An overloaded circuit is the most likely problem that would make your breakers trip. In simple terms, it means there is more current flowing through the circuit than it is made to carry, so it shuts off to stop any damage.

Remember earlier when we spoke about the different levels of current certain rooms in your home receives? When you are searching for an overloaded circuit, try finding any appliances on the overloaded circuit that would be using more electricity than the circuit would allow. Pay extra attention to objects such as space heaters, toasters, hair dryers straighteners, etc. – These things tend to consume the most power.

The solution for overloaded currents is pretty simple – just unplug things you’re not using! If this doesn’t solve the issue, call an electrician – you may have loose connections somewhere in the house, though this is pretty rare.

Short Circuit

If the problem is not being caused by an overloaded circuit, most likely a short circuit is the issue. Short circuits are a slightly more serious problem than overloaded circuits, which happens when the hot (black) wire touches another hot wire or a neutral wire. The surest way to tell if you are having a short circuit is to first check your power cables for damage or a melted covering (make sure the appliance is unplugged first)  and to check the power outlets or plugs for discoloration or a burning smell. If you can’t locate the problem, hire an electrician to take a look at it.

Ground Fault

If you’ve looked at the two other possibilities and checked for problems, but you don’t think you have an overloaded or a short circuit, you should check to see if a ground fault is causing your troubles. A ground fault exists when the hot (black) wire touches the ground (bare) wire or the walls of a metal outlet box. If you have a ground fault, it’s best to have a  Vancouver electrician take care of the problem.

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How to Reset a Tripped Breaker

What to do when a circuit breaker trips.

Lee has over two decades of hands-on experience remodeling, fixing, and improving homes, and has been providing home improvement advice for over 13 years.

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

What Causes a Tripped Circuit Breaker

Safety considerations, how to avoid tripped breakers, when to call a professional.

• Total Time: 5 mins
• Skill Level: Beginner
• Estimated Cost: $0

A power breaker trip is an annoying occurrence when the power shuts off and you can't use the microwave, lights, or router. A breaker trip is far more than simply annoying when you need that router to send off a time-sensitive work assignment or when medical devices are diverted to time-limited standby power. Fortunately, it's easy to fix a circuit breaker trip in just a few minutes.

Tripped Circuit Breaker

A tripped circuit breaker is when a circuit breaker automatically shuts off to prevent devices on the circuit from overheating or from receiving excessive power. A circuit breaker protects your home against damaging or harmful short circuits and overloads.

• Overloaded circuits : When too many devices are operating on the same circuit and are attempting to pull a higher power load than the circuit can carry, the circuit breaker will trip.
• High-power devices : High amp devices like microwaves , dryers , wall heaters , or A/Cs are turned on for sustained periods, they can cause a power breaker trip.
• Short circuits : In a short circuit, a powered or hot wire makes contact with a neutral wire or when wires are loosened .
• Ground faults: In a ground fault, a hot wire touches anything that is grounded, such as the side of a metal electrical box , an appliance, an outlet , or a bare ground wire.

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Watch Now: How to Safely Reset a Tripped Circuit Breaker

Working around an electrical service panel or circuit breaker board can be dangerous. Your home’s entire electrical load is contained in that box, concentrated around the metal lugs where the service drop’s wires enter the box. Unscrewing and removing the inner dead-front cover within the service panel exposes the highly powered lugs.

What You'll Need

Equipment / tools.

• Circuit breaker directory (if available)
• Rubber-soled shoes
• Safety glasses

Instructions

Locate a flashlight.

Circuit breaker panels tend to be located in out-of-the-way locations with little, if any, ambient light. Find a flashlight. Use the light from a phone if necessary.

Turn Off Devices on the Circuit

Turn off all devices on the electrical circuit. This includes the device that may have caused the breaker to trip, such as a microwave, hairdryer, or A/C, plus all other devices on the same circuit.

Find the Electric Service Panel

The electric service panel, sometimes called a circuit breaker board, is a metal box with a door. The box may be inset in a wall, its face flush with the wall, or surface-mounted where the entire box is exposed.

Places to look: garage , closet, pantry near the kitchen, basement , mudroom, hallway leading to garage or backyard.

One clue is to first find the electric service drop from the main power lines. Usually, your home’s service panel is located below and nearby, on the inside of your home.

Open the Door to the Service Panel

Open the door to the service panel by sliding the plastic switch to the side or up. Next, swing the door open. Use the inset plastic switch as a handle to pull the door open.

Adhi Syailendra / Getty Images

Locate Tripped Breaker

The handle of a tripped circuit breaker should be in the middle position—not left or right. Visually or by feel, locate any breaker handles that differ from the right or left positions:

• Tripped breakers : Tripped circuit breakers have a soft or springy feeling when you lightly press them leftward or rightward.
• Live/active breakers : Breakers that are not tripped are either firmly left or right (depending on which side of the box you're looking at).

Certain breakers, such as Eaton breakers , trip to the off position, not the middle position. Check manufacturer's instructions for your particular product.

Turn the Circuit Breaker Handle to OFF Position

Flip the circuit breaker handle to its firm OFF position, toward the outer edge of the service panel (away from the centerline).

Double and Tandem Breakers

Double pole breakers are double-wide breakers with wide handles. They are often used for dryer or oven circuits. Both sides of double pole breakers operate as one. Tandem breakers are two narrow breakers that share the space of one breaker. Each side operates individually.

Turn the Circuit Breaker Handle to ON Position

Flip the circuit breaker handle to its firm ON position, toward the centerline of the service panel. The handle should seat firmly in place and should make an audible click.

Test Circuit

Turn the device such as the light or A/C back on. If you believe the breaker tripped due to an overload, it’s best to turn on only one device at this time, not multiple devices. Also, choose a device with a lower power draw such as a light fixture.

• Remove some devices from the overloaded circuit and plug them into other circuits that aren’t drawing as much power.
• Avoid running many devices on the circuit at the same time. In a kitchen , for example, stage cooking activities that require power so that they happen in succession, not all at once.
• Install GFCI outlets so that the outlet shuts off before the entire circuit breaker shuts down in the case of a ground circuit. Just note that GFCI outlets are not circuit overload protection, but protection against dangerous ground faults.
• Replace old outlets, light fixtures, and switches which may create short circuits or trip breakers.
• Have an electrician separate hardwired devices that are drawing too much power from a single circuit. The electrician can move devices to another circuit or can set up an entirely new circuit to relieve the load.
• Replace the circuit breaker.

A qualified, licensed electrician is trained to detect the cause of tripped breakers and to fix those causes. If your problem of tripped circuit breakers is more than just an overloaded circuit, you may want to seek the help of an electrician. Unless you are an advanced do-it-yourselfer , it’s best to hire an electrician to wire up a new circuit breaker .

Electrical Panel Safety . Office of Congressional Workplace Rights.

CH Circuit Breakers . Eaton.

Ground-Fault Circuit Interruptors . International Association of Certified Home Inspectors.

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5 Reasons Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping and What You Can Do About It

Keep losing power, and aren't sure why here are five of the most common reasons why a circuit breaker keeps tripping, and what you can do to fix the problem..

1. Ground Fault

2. short circuit, 3. circuit overload, 4. arc fault, 5. damaged breakers, circuit breaker keeps tripping.

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Why Does A Specific Wall Outlet Keep Tripping The Breaker?

If you have a specific outlet in your house that appears to keep tripping your breaker, it can be incredibly frustrating. All you want to do is use your electronic devices, and if there is an outlet preventing you from doing so, you may be at your wit’s end. Fortunately, this is not necessarily something you need to deal with in perpetuity. Why is there a specific outlet that keeps tripping your breaker, and what should you do about it? There are several important points to keep in mind.

Reminder : Remember that your top priority, particularly when you are working with electrical equipment, has to be safety. This article has been fact-checked for accuracy, but every electrical installation is different. If you are in any doubt about what electrical work or modifications are required, you should seek advice from a qualified electrician.

How To Know If the Breaker Tripped

First, you need to figure out if your circuit breaker has tripped. Remember that the point of your circuit breaker is to protect the electrical system in your home. If your circuit breaker has tripped, it is a self-defense mechanism. If the breaker wouldn’t trip, you would simply end up overloading your circuit, destroying your electrical system.

Your circuit breaker trips when there is an excessive amount of energy or temperature that flows through the system. The circuit breaker switches off to interrupt the flow of electricit y. Essentially, its job is to break the circuit. All you need to do is go to the breaker box in your house.

Then, see if any of the switches have shut off. If that is the case, you need to identify the problem and reset it. If you find that the breaker handle is in the middle position, it means that it has tripped and no power is flowing through the circuit.

Why Is There One Outlet That Keeps Tripping?

Based on what you see in the circuit breaker in front of you, you should be able to figure out where the problem is located. When your house was built, the electrician should have labeled the individual switches with specific rooms in your home. You might see an area labeled for your kitchen, your living room, various bedrooms, and certain bathrooms. You can use this information to narrow down the problem relatively quickly.

Then, based on your personal experience, you should be able to figure out what the problem is with the outlet . There are several reasons why you may have a specific outlet in your home that keeps tripping your circuit breaker. Some of the most common reasons include:

1. There Is Moisture in the Outlet

One of the most common reasons why a specific outlet in your home might be tripping is that there is moisture in the outlet . It is not exactly a secret that water conducts electricity. You learned this from an early age.

If there is a specific outlet in your home that keeps tripping, it could be because there was water in the outlet. As a result, more electricity is passing through the outlet than is normal, and your circuit breaker responds by tripping. If you want to fix this issue, you will need to find a way to get the moisture out of the outlet. Then, you can test the outlet again to see if it is working as it should.

2. You Have Debris Conducting Electricity

Another possible reason why your circuit breaker might be tripping is that there is debris in the outlet that is conducting electricity . For example, if you have metallic debris in the outlet, it could be conducting electricity. As a result, you are dealing with the same problem as the moisture issue above. The only difference is that you are dealing with metal instead of moisture.

There are a number of reasons why you might have metal in the outlet conducting electricity, but the most common culprit is that something was broken off in the outlet at some point, and a bunch of fragments have been left behind.

It is also possible that there could be dust in the outlet conducting electricity, but it would take a significant amount of dust to start the process. You may want to take a close look at the outlet to see if you see any debris trapped inside.

3. The Wire Is Deteriorating

If you live in an older home, it is possible that the wire could be deteriorating. Similar to other components in your home, your electrical system will begin to degrade over time . If the wiring behind the outlet is bad, then the wiring itself could begin to deteriorate. As a result, the outlet might not behave as it should, and the wire might not conduct electricity appropriately.

If the circuit breaker detects a problem, then it may respond by tripping. You may have to remove the outlet to take a closer look at the wiring, and this is something that you should only do if you can do so safely.

4. The Insulation Is Gone or Stripped

Speaking of issues with the wiring, one specific problem could have to do with the installation. The vast majority of electrical systems have insulation on them from head to toe. It is the job of the insulation to protect your system from conducting electricity too quickly. If the wire insulation is gone, then the wiring will not be able to handle the electricity going through the system.

Essentially, without insulation, there will be higher voltage in the system than there should be. The circuit breaker is going to be able to detect this issue, and it will respond by tripping . You will need to add more insulation to the wire if you want to use the outlet without the circuit breaker tripping.

This is a very important safety mechanism. If you have too much electricity flowing through the outlet, there is a greater chance of an electrical fire taking place due to an overloaded circuit.

5. There Is a Ground Fault in the Circuit

Depending on the type of outlet you have, it is possible that there could be a ground fault in the circuit. It is important for all of the electrical systems to be grounded . It is an important safety mechanism. Essentially, if there’s too much electricity going through the system, then the electrical system will respond by directing the excess electricity directly into the ground.

Unfortunately, there are some situations where this might take place when it should not. If you have electricity taking an unplanned path to the ground, then the circuit breaker could respond by tripping the system. There are a number of reasons why this might be taking place, including damaged appliances, so you need to figure out what the cause is.

6. The Outlet Is Faulty

Finally, the most basic reason why your outlet might be tripping the breaker is that the outlet itself is faulty . There are a number of issues that could be plaguing the outlet. Like other electrical components, the outlet to degrade over time, and it is possible that it might be time to replace it.

Fortunately, replacing an electrical outlet is relatively straightforward; however, you need to make sure that the problem is actually with the outlet. Otherwise, you will replace the electrical outlet in your home, only to realize that the problem is still there.

If you are interested in fixing a faulty electrical outlet, what are some of the steps you need to follow? There are a few options available.

Fixing an Outlet That Keeps Tripping the Breaker

If you are interested in fixing the outlet on your own, there are a few steps you can try. Most importantly, you have to make sure that the electricity is turned off before you start working on the outlet. This means that you may want to go and manually trip the breaker to break the circuit. Otherwise, you may start working on the outlet, only to get a nasty shock. This is a very important safety issue, and you must make sure there is no power flowing into the outlet before you start to work on it.

Some of the options you may want to try include:

Dry Out the Outlet

If you think the problem has to do with moisture, you may want to start by drying out the outlet. This is relatively straightforward. The vast majority of the covers have screws on them. You can start by unscrewing the cover and removing it.

Then, take a powerful fan, and blow it directly into the outlet. Leave it there for a few hours, make sure the area is completely dry, and then replace the outlet cover . If the outlet begins to work again after you reset the breaker, then you know you have fixed the issue.

Replace the Missing Insulation

Another option is to replace the missing insulation. If there are gaps in the insulation, it allows dust and debris to impact the ability of your outlet to work properly . You may want to go to the local hardware store to get some extra insulation for the wiring in the outlet. Then, replace the missing insulation. After this, replace the outlet cover, reset the breaker, and see if the problem has fixed itself.

Look for Power Strips

It is also possible that the outlet keeps tripping purely because you have overloaded it. Even though the outlet should be able to handle the basic appliances you plug into it, it is also possible that you may have daisy-chained power strips .

This is a very dangerous situation, so start by unplugging all of the appliances and make sure they are plugged in appropriately. If you have overloaded the table, that could be the reason why it is still tripping. You may want to try this solution to see if you can fix the issue.

Replace the Outlet Itself

Finally, you may also want to try replacing the outlet itself. In general, you should expect your outlets to last between fifteen and twenty years . If you believe you are getting to that point, it may be time to replace the outlet. You can go to the local hardware store and get a replacement for the outlet. Then, unscrew the outlet, screw in the new one, and see if the problem has fixed itself.

Call an Expert For Help

If you have gone through all of these issues, and you find that the issues still have not been resolved, then it may be time to reach out to an expert who can help you. Once you have tried all of these fixes, it is possible that the final problem could be faulty wiring. If you believe that an issue with the wiring is the problem at hand, then it is time to replace the wiring.

This is not something that you should do on your own. It is important for you to reach out to an expert who can help you. That way, you know that the wiring has been fixed appropriately, and you reduce your chances of hurting yourself.

Furthermore, if you reach out to a professional, you will get a chance to pick his or her brain about what you can do to protect the electrical system. The electrician may also identify other issues that need to be addressed. That way, you can only fix the problem with your outlet , but you can prevent future problems from happening.

Even though it is fine for you to troubleshoot some of the issues yourself, it is important to remember just how dangerous it is to work with electricity. It might be time to reach out to a professional.

About Charlie D Paige

Charlie is a massive DIY fan, with dozens of DIY projects under his belt - ranging from tiling to electrics, and concrete pads to walls. Charlie loves tinkering, seeing how things works, the outdoors and playing with power tools... so is it any wonder that he's completed so many DIY jobs over the years? Charlie loves spreading his hard-won DIY experience with the world via this blog.

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What to do when a Circuit Breaker Trips

When the lights suddenly go off generally your first thought is that there has been a power outage. But only your house has no power and when you check other parts of the house the power is still on there. The likeliest thing is that a circuit breaker has tripped. Most of the time this isn’t something you need to call an electrician about.  A house circuit breaker tripping is a very common occurrence. All you need to do is follow these simple steps. That’s how to turn the power back on.

Main Reasons for Power Tripping

If it is dark, the first thing to do is find a torch or use your phone’s flashlight mode. You really don’t want to mess around inside your fuse box if you can’t see what you are doing. The next thing to do is to turn off and unplug all the appliances on the circuit that isn’t working. The two main reasons why you get an electricity trip are a circuit overload or a short circuit.

Circuit Overload

A circuit overload just means that you are running too many appliances at once and trying to draw more power than the circuit can provide. It’s pretty obvious that this is the cause of your problem if the power has tripped when you have put on way more things than usual, such as the toaster, an electric frypan, the kettle and a blender all at once while the fridge is running. Some circuits can handle this, but older homes can struggle with excess demand.

Short Circuit

A short circuit is usually caused by faulty appliances. That’s why the first thing to do is turn them all off at the socket and unplug them. Now it’s time to visit the fuse box. There are various places where this can be – outside, in the laundry or even in the garage. Mostly it houses both the switchboard and the meter, so people also call it the meter box or simply the switchboard. What you should see inside is a number of switches or breakers. The breaker that has switched off is the one that controls the circuit that has gone dead. Just turn it back on.

All should be well and the power to that circuit should come back on. If it doesn’t, and the breaker immediately trips again, it means the short circuit is in the system.  That is something for an electrician to sort out. But otherwise, all you will have to sort out from here is which the offending appliance is. Finding out which appliance has caused the problem is simply a process of trial and error – plug an appliance in, turn it on and if it results in a tripped breaker then it’s the culprit.

People also ask…

How do you fix a breaker that keeps tripping.

Since they only cost a few dollars, if your breaker is faulty it should be replaced and not repaired. And breakers, as they are important electrical safety devices, should be installed a licensed electrician if you don’t want to void your insurance policy. You could also consider using fewer appliances on the circuit that keeps tripping.

Why is my breaker tripping all of a sudden?

A breaker can start tripping if it is being regularly overloaded. A new appliance that draws a lot of power might be the issue. If the breaker is tripping for no readily apparent reason it is advisable to have it checked by an electrician.

How do I find out what’s tripping my circuit breaker?

If you problem is a faulty appliance, it just a case of trying appliances one by one until you strike the one that trips the circuit breaker.

What causes a main circuit breaker to trip?

Lightning strikes and power surges can trip the main circuit breaker.  If an individual circuit breaker fails and doesn’t trip for an overload or short circuit, the main breaker trips instead as a backup safety shutoff.

How do you fix a short circuit?

You fix a short circuit by removing the appliance that is causing it and throwing it away. For short circuits within the system caused by wiring faults, call a licensed electrician. Don’t create a fire hazard, get a certificate of compliance.

How much does it cost to replace a circuit breaker?

Circuit breakers only cost a few dollars. The rest is what your electrician will charge for roughly an hour’s labour.

What are the warning signs of an overloaded electrical circuit?

Lights dimming or flickering is one sign. Another is powerpoints getting warm and a burning smell. Powerpoints that buzz also indicate a problem. They’re not supposed to make a noise.

How many times can you trip a circuit breaker?

Quite a few, but if you are constantly tripping your circuit breaker it is advisable to resolve the issue that is causing the tripping.

How do I find out why my electricity keeps tripping?

If your electricity keeps tripping and it is not because you are overloading the circuit or have had an incredibly bad run of faulty appliances, you can find out by consulting an electrician.

How do you reset a tripped breaker?

Simply switch it back on after having turned off any appliances on the circuit.

What is the lifespan of a circuit breaker?

You can reasonably expect a circuit breaker to have a lifespan of 30 years or more.

How do you fix an overloaded circuit?

You can get an electrician to increase the capacity of a circuit or you can use fewer appliances on the circuit that is overloaded.  

What happens when a short circuit occurs?

When a short circuit occurs your circuit breaker should trip and turn off the power to the circuit.

Can I replace a breaker myself?

We don’t advise doing things that really should be done by a licensed electrician.

Published: 2021-03-02

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Circuit Breaker trips when I plug into an outlet

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In my home a circuit breaker pops whenever I plug in a tv or lamp into an outlet. Actually, I have three outlets on the same breaker with this problem. We have a ceiling light on this breaker that does not cause the breaker to pop. I have replaced two of the outlets and the problem continued. When I went to replace outlet number three, I noticed the ground wire, the neutral wire and the hot wire had turned green! This is a one story 30 year old home. We have had the roof leaks patched up in the past. The wiring from the outlets to the breaker box is in the attic. Could rain be causing these wires to oxidize and turn green? Is it possible to replace the wiring behind the wall that runs from this "green" outlet to the junction box?  

I would say that somewhere there are 2ires that touch and short circuit at the moment you plug in somthing. If you pressed your finger on the outlet without plugging in anything does the breaker trip>? Yes you can replace the wires but you would have to tear open the wall.  

Allan is right. I had the same experience. Our bathroom was renovated prior to moving in. Whenever we plug on the outlet in the room next to the bathroom, the breaker pops. We found out that the wire in the new bathroom outlet was tapped from the wire in the old outlet that's connected to the room outlet. The old outlet was behind the newly tiled walls. We had to break the tiles to check on the wires.  

This one of the main reason why the code do not allow hidden junction box at all that will cause alot of issue to do the troubleshooting. I have ran into like this many time and few homeowners were not very happy but once they see the hidden juction box they will wise up a bit. Merci. Marc  

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