Why Your Circuit Breakers Keep Tripping

The most common circuit breaker problem is breakers that trip too often. If your breakers are frequently tripping, there are several reasons why this may be the case. Our expert technicians at Champion Star Service are here to help you!

Common Circuit Breaker Problems

1. Miswiring

A wiring problem within the inner workings of your electrical system could cause your breaker to turn off when it shouldn’t.

Problems with your electrical wiring can also cause electricity to continue to run through the circuit even if it is switched off. Electric shock and fire hazards are common effects of faulty wiring. If you have not had an electrical safety inspection in recent memory, you owe it to your home and your family’s safety to get this done at once.

Your licensed electrician will be able to tell you if you have safe or unsafe wiring. In the case of unsafe wiring, the electrician can inform you of how to fix this issue. Signs of miswiring include outlets and devices not working properly or not turning on at all, shocks near light switches and receptacles, strange smells, and discolored electrical outlets.

• Too many extension cords: Extension cords should never be used as a permanent solution, but only for short periods of time. If you need more outlets, call your electrician.
• Dimming and flickering lights: Often caused by a problem with the circuit, not the fixture itself, especially when high-usage appliances are turned on.
• Strange smells: Smells such as burning plastic or sulfur may indicate a fire hazard.
• Shocks and sparks: If you notice melting breakers, sparking outlets, or shocks when you turn on lights, call an electrician immediately.
• Hot outlets and switch plates: Outlets or switches hot to the touch may signal a problem. Turn off power to that circuit and contact an electrician right away.

2. Electrical Load

An overloaded circuit is the most common reason for a tripped breaker. If you are trying to use more power from a circuit than it can handle, your panel has a safety mechanism to prevent overheating by cutting off power flow.

This is why large appliances, such as HVAC systems, tend to use dedicated circuits. One circuit breaker can handle around 15-20 amps, which is less than what some appliances require, making a dedicated 20-30 amp circuit necessary.

3. How to Reset a Tripped Breaker

If your circuit breaker has tripped, follow these steps to reset it:

1. Unplug or turn off devices in the circuit you wish to restore.
2. Locate your main breaker panel and open the cover.
3. Find the tripped breaker. It will either be fully off or in a middle position.
4. Switch the breaker to the "off" position, then turn it back on.

If the circuit does not reset, you may have a more serious electrical issue and should contact a qualified electrician.

Federal Pacific and Zinsco Panels

If you have a Federal Pacific Electric or Zinsco panel, contact a qualified electrician to conduct an electrical safety inspection.

Electric Troubleshooting (if you don’t have power)

• Turn off all breakers and turn them back on.
• Check all receptacles with reset buttons (GFCI – press the reset button).
• Make sure neighbors’ power is on.
• If the issue persists, contact your local power company.

Electrical Repair and Installation Services

If you need assistance fixing or checking circuit breakers that keep tripping, give our team of professionals at Champion Star Service a call at (225) 644-0400. We are available 24/7 to solve all of your home service needs.