Do you have a circuit breaker that keeps tripping? Is it the same one, or does it change each time? It can be frustrating to keep going outside to reset the breaker. There are a number of reasons why a breaker or circuit line may trip. However, to correct the problem you will need to determine the reason why. Simon Electric will walk you through the steps to determine the cause and what can be done to repair or correct this common problem.
What is Tripping My Circuit Breaker?
When you have a circuit that has tripped or frequently trips, you will want to restore power of course. However, most people will simply reset the power without considering the cause as to why the breaker tripped. When a breaker trips, it is often due to only a handful of problems or causes. Breakers will trip if a light strikes near the home and enters the electrical system. If a large power surge overloads the electrical system, and stress from a single outlet gets too much power being drawn through it, it will trip.
Overloaded Circuit Breaker
There are a number of reasons why a circuit may trip or continue to trip. In most cases, it is due to overloading the circuit. A single circuit can be overwhelmed with too many electrical devices or appliances. To correct this problem simply spread out the devices or appliances onto other circuits. In some cases, you may want to add more circuits if there isn’t enough present. Another reason why the breaker may keep tripping is from an overload which is often referred to as short circuiting. If the hot wire comes in contact with the neutral wire it can cause the outlet to short circuit which is dangerous and can lead to electrical fires. Short circuiting should be corrected by a professional electrician due to the potential hazards.
Ground Fault Circuit
Lastly ground fault is another problem that can cause the breaker to keep tripping. If there is a loose connection and the hot wire comes in contact with the metal box, this can create a ground surge which results in tripping the breakers. Again, this problem needs to be correct by a professional electrician.
How to Reset a Tripped Breaker
When the breaker does trip, make sure to first turn off and/or unplug all appliances and other electrical devices connected to that circuit. You will want to avoid having any power drawing through the circuit. Next, make sure when you go to the breaker box that the circuit is fully in the off position. You may need to push the breaker into the off position if it is stuck half way. Once the breaker switch is in the off position, then turn it back onto the on position. Why turn off and unplug all electrical devices and appliances? When the power is restored it can send a massive power surge through the circuit that can damage electrical devices and appliances. When plugging devices back in, avoid overwhelming a single circuit if possible. If the breaker continues to trip seek professional assistance.
Residential, Commercial & Marine Electrical in Delray Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter & Boca Raton & Palm Beach County Florida
If you have a circuit that continues to trip, contact Simon Electric. We can determine the cause for the breakers to trip and correct the problem. For professional electrical services, contact Simon Electric today.
