“My breaker keeps tripping. What do I do?” If you’re asking this question, you’re not alone. Various problems can cause tripping breakers. Regardless of its cause, you should call an electrician to fix it.
Below, our team at Cool Hand Electric will explain what to do when your breaker keeps tripping unexpectedly and when to call our highly rated electricians in Fort Worth, TX.
Why Is Your Breaker Tripping in the First Place?
When your breaker keeps tripping, it’s often a sign that something is amiss in your electrical system. Circuit breakers are designed to protect your home from electrical hazards by cutting off power when they detect a problem. Let’s explore the most common reasons behind a frequently tripping breaker.
Overloaded Circuits
An overloaded circuit occurs when you’re drawing more power than it can safely handle. Modern homes with numerous electronic devices are particularly susceptible to this issue.
When you plug in too many high-wattage appliances or devices on a single circuit, it can exceed the circuit breaker rating, causing it to trip as a safety measure.
For example, running a microwave, toaster, and coffee maker simultaneously on the same kitchen circuit might overload it. To prevent this, distribute your high-energy appliances across different circuits and be mindful of the total wattage you’re using on each.
Short-Circuiting
A short circuit happens when a hot wire comes into contact with a neutral or ground wire. This sudden surge of electricity can cause your breaker to trip instantly.
Damaged wires, loose connections, or faulty appliances can cause short circuits. They’re particularly dangerous because they can generate intense heat, potentially leading to electrical fires.
Signs of a short circuit include sparking from outlets, burning smells, or visible scorch marks around electrical fixtures. If you suspect a short circuit, it’s crucial to have a professional electrician inspect your wiring immediately.
Ground Fault Surges
Ground faults occur when electricity escapes its intended path and flows to the ground, often due to water exposure or damaged insulation.
Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are designed to detect these surges and cut off power to prevent electrocution. Ground faults are common in areas with high moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor spaces.
Arc Fault
When you tell your electrician, “My breaker keeps tripping, and I’m not sure why,” they may suggest an arc fault as the culprit. An arc fault is an unintended electrical discharge that can occur when wires are damaged or worn. It can be particularly dangerous, as it may lead to electrical fires.
Arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) are designed to detect and prevent these hazards. Arc faults often occur in hidden areas, such as inside walls or attics, making them particularly insidious. Common causes of arc faults include damaged wire insulation, loose connections, or wires pinched by furniture or doors.
Malfunctioning Circuit Breaker
Over time, breakers can wear out or become faulty, causing them to trip even when there’s no electrical issue. A malfunctioning breaker might be to blame if you’ve ruled out other causes. Circuit breakers typically have a lifespan of around 30-40 years, but they can fail earlier because of frequent use or exposure to extreme temperatures.
Signs of a failing circuit breaker include visible damage or discoloration on the breaker, a burning smell coming from the electrical panel, or a breaker that won’t stay reset.
What You Can Do About a Frequently Tripping Breaker in Fort Worth
Once you’ve identified the cause of your tripping breaker, you can take steps to address the issue:
- Redistribute electrical loads to prevent overloading.
- Replace damaged cords or appliances that may be causing short circuits.
- Install GFCI outlets in areas prone to moisture.
- Upgrade to AFCI breakers for enhanced protection against arc faults.
- Have a professional inspect your electrical panel for signs of wear or damage.
- Consider upgrading your electrical system if it’s consistently overloaded.
- Schedule regular electrical maintenance to catch issues early.
Cool Hand Electric Can Solve Your Tripping Breaker Issues in Fort Worth, Texas
When your breaker keeps tripping, it’s more than just an inconvenience; it’s a warning sign that shouldn’t be ignored. At Cool Hand Electric, we’re committed to helping homeowners in Fort Worth and the surrounding areas resolve their electrical issues in the most safe and effective manner.
Don’t let a tripping breaker leave you in the dark. If you’re asking questions like, “My breaker keeps tripping — what’s causing it?” or dealing with persistent electrical panel issues, contact Cool Hand Electric.