A breaker that trips is doing its job. It shuts off power when something on the circuit is unsafe. If the same breaker trips again and again, it is a sign that something needs attention. Here are the most common causes we find in San Diego homes, what you can safely check yourself and when it is time to call an electrician.
1. Overloaded Circuit
Too many devices are running on one circuit, such as a space heater, hair dryer or microwave sharing a circuit with other loads. Moving devices to other circuits can help. If it keeps happening, a dedicated circuit is often the long-term fix.
2. Short Circuit
A hot wire touching a neutral wire causes a sudden surge of current. Signs include a burning smell, scorch marks on an outlet or a breaker that trips the moment it is reset. Stop using the circuit and call an electrician.
3. Ground Fault
A hot wire touching a ground path or moisture, common in kitchens, bathrooms, garages and outdoor outlets. GFCI outlets and breakers trip to protect you from shock. Learn more about GFCI outlets.
4. Arc Fault
AFCI breakers trip when they detect arcing from damaged cords, loose connections or worn wiring. Repeated AFCI trips should be checked by an electrician.
5. A Failing Appliance
Unplug everything on the circuit and reset the breaker. Plug items back in one at a time. If the breaker trips when one item is plugged in, that appliance may be the problem.
6. A Worn Out Breaker or Outdated Panel
Breakers wear out over time, and some older panels are known for problems. See our circuit breaker repair and replacement service and our electrical panel upgrades and replacements.
When to Call an Electrician
Call us if the breaker trips right after you reset it, you smell burning, see scorch marks, feel a warm outlet or panel, or cannot find the cause. Our troubleshooting and diagnostics service finds the problem and fixes it safely. Schedule an appointment or call (619) 224-2748.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it dangerous if my breaker keeps tripping?
A tripping breaker is a safety device working as designed, but repeated trips mean there is an underlying problem. If you notice burning smells, heat or scorch marks, stop using the circuit and call an electrician.
How do I reset a tripped breaker?
Find the breaker in the off or middle position, push it fully to off, then back to on. If it trips again right away, leave it off and call an electrician.
Why does my breaker trip at night or when nothing is on?
Possible causes include a refrigerator or other appliance cycling on, a ground fault from moisture or a wiring problem. An electrician can test the circuit to find it.
Can a breaker go bad?
Yes. Breakers can wear out over time and trip too easily or fail to trip. A worn breaker should be replaced by a licensed electrician.
Why does my GFCI keep tripping?
Common causes include moisture in outdoor or bathroom outlets, a faulty appliance or a worn GFCI device. If resetting does not fix it, have it checked.
Should I replace my breaker with a bigger one?
No. Breakers are sized to protect the wire on that circuit. Installing a larger breaker can let wires overheat. The right fix is to reduce the load or add a new circuit.