Why does my breaker keep tripping? Causes, and when to call an electrician
By CSM Electric · · 2 min read
A breaker that trips is doing its job: it shuts off a circuit before the wires get dangerously hot. When it keeps happening, the breaker is telling you something. Here is how to read it.
Overload: too much on one circuit
The most common cause. Space heaters, hair dryers, microwaves, window AC units and toasters all draw a lot of current. Two of them on the same circuit can be enough. If the breaker trips when a specific appliance runs, try moving it to an outlet on a different circuit. If that is not practical, a dedicated circuit is the long-term fix.
Short circuit
If the breaker trips instantly, even with nothing turned on, or it trips again the moment you reset it, there may be a short: a hot wire touching neutral or ground somewhere. Look for a damaged cord or a scorched outlet. Do not keep resetting it. Leave it off and call an electrician.
Ground fault or arc fault
GFCI outlets and breakers trip when current leaks to ground, which is common with outdoor outlets after rain or with a failing appliance. AFCI breakers trip when they detect arcing, which can be a loose connection or a damaged wire. Both are safety devices; a trip is worth investigating, not bypassing.
A worn-out breaker
Breakers can wear out, especially in older panels. A breaker that trips well below its rating, feels warm, or will not stay seated may need replacing. If your panel is a Federal Pacific or Zinsco, read this post first.
What you can safely check
- Note what was running when it tripped
- Unplug things on that circuit, then reset the breaker once: push it fully to OFF, then back to ON
- Press the TEST and RESET buttons on any GFCI outlets in kitchens, baths, the garage and outside
- Look (do not touch) for scorch marks, melted plastic or a hot smell at outlets
Call an electrician when
- It trips immediately or will not reset
- You smell burning or see scorch marks
- An outlet, switch or the panel cover feels warm
- It keeps tripping and you cannot connect it to one appliance
If there is smoke or fire, get out and call 911. Otherwise, book a visit or call. See electrical repairs for what we check.
Common questions
Is it safe to keep resetting a breaker?
Resetting once after unplugging the likely cause is fine. If it trips again right away or keeps tripping, stop and have it checked.
Can I replace the breaker with a bigger one?
No. The breaker is sized to protect the wire. A bigger breaker on the same wire removes that protection.
Why does my GFCI outlet trip when it rains?
Moisture in an outdoor outlet or box lets current leak to ground. A proper in-use cover and a dry box usually solve it.