Breaker Trip Off: How to Fix and Prevent It

Quick answer

If your circuit breaker keeps tripping, first turn it off and then back on. If it trips again, unplug devices on that circuit and reset it. If it still trips, stop using the circuit and call an electrician.

Confirm the symptom

• Circuit breaker in the electrical panel is in the off or middle position
• Breaker trips repeatedly after being reset
• Lights or appliances on the circuit stop working when the breaker trips
• Breaker feels warm or smells burnt

Tools and prep

• Non-contact voltage tester
• Screwdriver set
• Multimeter
• Label maker or masking tape

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Prep & safety

• Turn off the main power to the electrical panel before inspecting the breaker
• Wear rubber-soled shoes and use insulated tools
• Ensure no one is using appliances on the affected circuit during troubleshooting

Step-by-step troubleshooting

1. Step 1: Locate the Tripped Breaker
   Do: Open the electrical panel and look for a breaker in the off or middle position.
   Observe: Breaker is in the off or middle position.
   Means: This is the tripped breaker causing the power outage.
   Next: Step 2: Reset the Breaker
2. Step 2: Reset the Breaker
   Do: Turn the tripped breaker fully to the off position, then back to the on position.
   Observe: Breaker stays in the on position and power returns to the circuit.
   Means: The issue was likely temporary, such as an overload.
   Next: Step 3: Monitor the Breaker
3. Step 3: Monitor the Breaker
   Do: Use the circuit as normal and observe if the breaker trips again.
   Observe: Breaker does not trip again.
   Means: The issue was resolved.
   Next: Step 4: Identify the Cause
4. Step 4: Identify the Cause
   Do: Unplug all devices on the circuit and reset the breaker. Plug in devices one at a time.
   Observe: Breaker trips when a specific device or appliance is plugged in.
   Means: The device or appliance is causing the overload or short circuit.
   Next: Step 5: Replace or Repair the Faulty Device
5. Step 5: Replace or Repair the Faulty Device
   Do: Stop using the device that caused the breaker to trip and have it repaired or replaced.
   Observe: Breaker remains on with other devices operating normally.
   Means: The faulty device was the cause of the issue.
   Next: Step 6: Check for Electrical Issues
6. Step 6: Check for Electrical Issues
   Do: Use a multimeter to test the wiring and outlets for faults.
   Observe: Abnormal voltage readings or damaged wiring are found.
   Means: There is an electrical issue that needs to be addressed by a professional.
   Next: When to Call a Professional
7. Step 7: Inspect for Overloaded Circuits
   Do: Check if too many high-wattage appliances are on the same circuit.
   Observe: Multiple high-wattage appliances are on the same circuit.
   Means: The circuit is overloaded.
   Next: Step 8: Redistribute the Load
8. Step 8: Redistribute the Load
   Do: Move some appliances to another circuit to balance the load.
   Observe: Breaker remains on with a balanced load.
   Means: The overload issue is resolved.
   Next: Step 9: Check for Damaged Wiring
9. Step 9: Check for Damaged Wiring
   Do: Inspect the wiring for signs of damage, such as frayed insulation or burn marks.
   Observe: Damaged wiring is found.
   Means: The wiring needs to be repaired or replaced.
   Next: When to Call a Professional
10. Step 10: Replace the Breaker
    Do: If the breaker continues to trip and no other issues are found, replace the breaker.
    Observe: New breaker stays on and functions properly.
    Means: The old breaker was faulty.
    Next: When to Call a Professional

Common causes

Parts you might need

When replacing parts related to a tripped breaker, ensure compatibility and safety by matching the following specifications:

• Circuit breaker: match amperage rating and type (standard, GFCI, AFCI)
• Wire connectors: match wire gauge and number of wires to connect
• Replacement wiring: match wire gauge and insulation type to existing wiring
• GFCI outlet: match voltage and amperage rating of the circuit
• Surge protector: match the maximum joule rating and number of outlets needed
• Replacement outlet: match voltage, amperage, and type (standard, GFCI, AFCI)

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Always turn off the main power before replacing any electrical components to ensure safety.

When to call a professional

• The breaker continues to trip after replacing all devices and redistributing the load
• You find damaged wiring or suspect an electrical fire hazard
• You are unsure about the cause or how to fix the issue safely
• The breaker is old or has been tripped multiple times without a clear cause
• You need to replace a circuit breaker or make major electrical modifications

FAQ