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Why Is My Circuit Breaker Tripping? 4 Potential Problems and Solutions

By: Glenda Taylor , Bob Vila , Evelyn Auer

Updated on Dec 21, 2023 8:55 PM EST

6 minute read

Photo: istockphoto.com

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Q: Every few hours—sometimes minutes!—my living room and one side of my kitchen lose electrical power. I’ll check the breaker panel and, sure enough, a circuit breaker has tripped…again. Should I call an electrician, or is there a simple DIY fix I can try first?

A: While it’s frustrating when a circuit breaker keeps tripping, they are important safety mechanisms. Designed to shut off the electrical current when something goes wrong, circuit breakers are one of the best ways of protecting a home from an electrical fire. “When a circuit breaker trips, typically it is because we use too much electricity, which causes it to overload and turn off,” says Christopher Haas, expert electrician and owner of Haas & Sons Electric in Millersville, Maryland. For those who need an electrical panels 101 refresher course or aren’t sure how to reset circuit breakers, each breaker has an on/off switch and controls a separate electrical circuit in the home. When a breaker trips, its switch automatically flips “off,” and it must be manually turned back on to restore electricity to the circuit. For those wondering, “Is it dangerous if a circuit breaker keeps tripping?” the answer is that it can be, depending on the source of the problem. An electrician can ultimately deal with the root issue, but a little sleuthing will reveal whether it’s something that’s easily remedied.

In many cases, the cause of a circuit breaking tripping is an overloaded circuit.

A circuit overloads when more electrical current is being drawn through the wires than they can handle, tripping the circuit breaker. If this happens, there may be a few additional signs:

• Buzzing noises coming from outlets
• Devices charging slowly
• Electrical outlets not working
• Flickering lights
• Scorch marks on outlets and light switches

If a circuit breaker keeps tripping in one room, homeowners can test for circuit overload by turning off all the switches in the affected area and unplugging all appliances and devices. After the breaker is flipped back on, the devices can be turned back on one at a time, with homeowners waiting a few minutes in between to see if the circuit remains on. If the breaker trips before all the appliances are turned on, the experiment can be repeated, this time turning them on in a different order. It may be necessary to do this several times to find out how many appliances can be operated at once before the circuit overloads.

“As a short-term solution, you can unplug unnecessary appliances to prevent tripping circuit breakers. You may still get some trips, but you can limit them by unplugging devices that you don’t need to use,” advises Dan Mock, vice president of operations at Mister Sparky , an electrical company with 90 locations in the U.S. The best long-term solution, however, is to pay an electrician for the cost to rewire the house and add additional circuits. The cost to replace an electrical panel is about $1,274 on average.

Other times, the issue may be caused by a short circuit.

A “short” circuit means that two wires that should not be coming into contact are inadvertently touching, triggering a sudden surge of electricity through the wires. A short can occur in an outlet, a switch, or within an appliance if wires are loose or have been chewed through by mice or pets. Some signs of a short circuit include:

• Popping sounds
• Discolored outlets or switches
• Burning smells

Testing to see if an appliance has a short is similar to testing for an overloaded circuit. When an appliance that has a short in its wiring is turned on, it will immediately trip the circuit. Homeowners can also try plugging it into an outlet in a different room. If the breaker for that room trips, there’s a short in the appliance (if it’s unclear what breaker goes to what room, the breaker can be identified with one of the best circuit breaker finders ). Electrical shorts can be a major fire hazard, so it’s a good idea to call a licensed electrician for this circuit breaker repair. It’s wise to stop using the outlet or appliance until a pro takes care of the problem.

Another potential cause of a circuit breaker tripping is a ground fault.

A ground fault occurs when the electricity running through a home’s wiring diverts from the wiring loop and travels to the ground, usually due to faulty wiring or water infiltration in an outlet or switch box. Water is a conductor, which is why walking through puddles is often listed as something not to do in a power outage in case of downed power lines. Once water makes contact with wires, electricity can jump from the wiring loop and follow the water trail. This creates a surge in electricity leading to a tripped circuit breaker. If a person comes in contact with the electricity that is on its way to the ground, this can result in electrocution. Homeowners may notice a few signs of a ground fault, including:

• Tripped GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets;
• A burning smell coming from an outlet; and
• Lights flickering.

Newer electrical breakers have features designed to protect against the danger of ground faults. According to Haas, “Ground fault breakers sense electricity going to earth as opposed to going through the wires of the circuit. You’ll find [these] for bathrooms, kitchens, garages, exteriors, and basements.” GFCI outlets are another safety feature that shut off the electric current within a fraction of a second of sensing a ground fault.

If a ground fault is the problem, the cause of the errant water must be discovered and repaired, and any damaged wiring must also be replaced. It’s also a good idea to install GFCI outlets in rooms where water is commonly used. A GFCI outlet costs $210 on average.

Sometimes a bad or worn-out circuit breaker can be the culprit.

In some cases, the circuit breaker itself may be faulty. Breakers that are old, damaged, or were installed incorrectly may trip frequently for no apparent reason. Alternatively, faulty breakers may not trip when they are supposed to, leaving the home at risk of electrical fire. Some signs of a bad circuit breaker include:

• The circuit breaker getting hot and tripping frequently;
• The circuit breaker won’t reset;
• It has been over 10 years since the breaker was last serviced; and
• The breaker has scorch marks.

An important electrical safety tip to keep in mind is that resetting a breaker over and over again can cause what is called an arc flash, which is a small electrical explosion that can be deadly. If resetting the breaker once does not remedy the issue, it’s a good idea for the homeowner to hire an electrician near them who knows how to replace a circuit breaker safely. Mock warns, “Don’t take any chances with circuit breakers. Instead, call a licensed electrician who knows the safe ways to replace breaker boxes, upgrade circuits, and diagnose potential electrical problems in your home.” Wiring a breaker box is a job to leave to an experienced electrician.

A professional electrician can help determine the specific cause of a frequently tripping circuit breaker.

Most circuit breaker problems—aside from those explained in the sections above—will need to be inspected and addressed by a licensed electrician. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) , each year “thousands of people in the United States are critically injured and electrocuted as a result of electrical fires, accidents, [or] electrocution in their own homes.” While homeowners may be tempted to save on electrician costs by attempting circuit breaker replacement or repair themselves, electrical work is not suitable for casual DIYers. “Yes, you have to pay, but you can save many hours of head-scratching by hiring an electrician. Electricians will also have all the right tools for diagnosing and repairing the circuit,” Haas adds. “Lastly, they will come with a warranty/guarantee should something arise, and they will typically return at no additional cost.”

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Circuit Breaker Tripping: Troubleshooting Guide

Hubert Miles | Licensed Home Inspector, CMI, CPI

Updated on January 5, 2024

A circuit breaker tripping results from short circuits, overloaded circuits, and ground faults. In each case, an unintended excessive flow of current triggers the trip. You must reset the circuit breaker by flipping it back on to restore power.

Circuit breakers trip because they cannot handle the amount of current running through them. Tripping the circuit breaker interrupts the flow of electricity and protects your devices or appliances from damage.

Get FREE estimates from licensed electricians in your area today. Whether you need to replace an outlet, hang a ceiling fan, a new electrical panel, or repair wiring, We Can Help!

Without electrical circuit breakers , the possibility of electrical fires would be much higher.  

This guide looks at what causes circuit breakers to trip, what you can do, and how to identify a bad breaker.

What Would Cause a Circuit Breaker to Trip

There are three leading causes of circuit breaker trips:

• circuit overload
• electrical faults (i.e., ground faults and arc faults)
• short circuits

Below are factors that can cause circuit breaker trips. 

Circuit Overload

A circuit overload happens when the flow of electric current running through the circuit exceeds the amperage of the devices it serves. 

For example, if your microwave is a 12.5 amp appliance, you can run it on a 15 amp circuit. That means your microwave is safe as long as the amperage running through the circuit is 15 amps .

However, if the circuit receives an excessive electrical load over 15 amps , it will automatically trip to protect your device from damage. If the circuit doesn’t trip, the excess current will fry the circuit in your microwave. 

Also, if you operate too many appliances and devices on one circuit, its internal mechanism heats up, causing the breaker to trip. 

Circuit overload is the most common reason for breakers tripping. 

Ground Faults

A ground fault occurs when the active wire comes into contact with a ground wire made of bare copper. Sometimes, this fault may happen when the hot wire touches the metal box connected to the ground wire.

Excessive current flows once the active wire touches the ground wire, flowing into the earth. If you step on the affected area, ground faults can cause shock and even electrocution. The uncontrolled flow of electricity will cause the circuit breaker to trip.

Arc Faults 

An arc fault happens when exposed faulty wiring touches, causing the electric current to arc at the meeting point. As a result, sparks occur, which can ignite an electric fire.

A corroded or loose connection is the main culprit for arc faults. Circuit overloads, ground faults, or short circuits trip an AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) circuit breaker.

Arc faults result from damaged, loose, or corroded terminals and wires. The arc fault builds up over time as the heat due to the cable damage and terminals build up to the point of ignition.

Short Circuits

A short circuit occurs when an active wire touches a neutral wire, and the electrical current takes an unintended path of least resistance. 

The common cause of short circuits is frayed wires coming into contact when the wires touch. The electrical current flow increases significantly, causing the circuit breaker to trip to stop the electricity from damaging appliances.

It is a short circuit because the current bypasses the proper circuit wiring channels and flows through a shorter, unplanned pathway.

Short circuits occur 

• When insulation melts and wires are exposed
• Within appliances with damaged internal wiring
• Due to damaged and frayed extension or appliance cords

How do You Fix a Breaker that Keeps Tripping?

A dedicated circuit breaker tripping indicates too much current flowing through the wiring or connection to the outlet.

Here is a step-by-step guide to follow when you notice the first trip:

• Begin by turning off all the appliances and unplug electrical devices from the outlet. Also, switch off light fixtures and unplug those that you can. This prevents any appliances from damaged when the breaker is reset and a sudden surge of power comes through.
• Open the circuit panel or box and locate the on and off buttons of the circuit breaker. You may notice an orange or red color on the breaker when it is off. 
• Flip the switch from off to on to reset the circuit breaker. Once the breaker is reset, you can switch and test the appliances to see if the electrical power is flowing.
• Keep safe as you reset the breaker by working from the side of the electrical box instead of the front. That way, you will avoid any sparks (should there be any) when you switch the breaker back on.
• Some people prefer to switch the main electrical switch when working on the circuit breaker for added safety. 

Types of Circuit Breakers

Standard circuit breaker.

Standard circuit breakers monitor the modulation of the electric current coming into your devices and appliances. 

This circuit breaker stops the current from flowing when it detects the excessive flow of electricity. 

Standard circuit breakers come in two forms:

• Single-pole circuit breakers
• Double pole circuit breakers

Single-Pole Circuit Breakers

Single-pole circuit breakers are the most common breakers in homes and buildings. They monitor the electric current’s flow in one wire and trip if that wire experiences a very high influx of electricity.

These breakers deliver only 120 volts and work well for 15 to 30 amp circuits. Single-pole circuit breakers come with one switch in the back. 

Double-Pole Circuit Breakers

The double-pole circuit breakers monitor the current in two wires simultaneously. You will notice two switches on the back of these breakers.

The double-pole circuit breakers will trip even if only one of the wires receives too much current. They can accommodate between 15 to 200 amps while delivering 240 volts. 

Single-pole breakers are a good fit for lighting fixtures and other standard home outlets. On the other hand, double-pole breakers work for larger appliances like dryers and washing machines. 

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)

The GFCI circuit breaker interrupts the line due to ground faults. They trip when the current starts to follow an uncharted path into the ground. These ground fault surges occur when a foreign conductor, like water, comes in contact with a receptacle .

At the same time, they offer protection against circuit overloads and short circuits. 

GFCI circuit breakers come built into specialized outlets required for wet areas in the home, including :

• Outdoor areas like the balcony, patio, porches, and decks
• Laundry rooms
• Swimming pools
• Six feet from a sink
• Six feet from the bathroom

These breakers help prevent shock or electrocution should the electrical outlet contact water. 

Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) 

The AFCI circuit breaker detects normal and abnormal arc faults, so it will trip when it detects a dangerous arc fault that can cause a fire. 

The AFCI circuit breaker doesn’t work to protect devices and appliances plugged into an outlet. It works to prevent electrical fires due to faulty connections and wiring. The internal sensing mechanism in the circuit breaker senses the conditions of an electric arc, and the circuit trips to avoid an electric fire.

AFCI protection can also be built into an outlet. The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires these types of breakers to feature in :

• Common rooms
• Laundry areas

AFCI and GFCI circuit breakers can co-exist and complement each other for the best protection.

Combination All Fault Circuit Interrupter (CAFCI)

The CAFCI breaker senses and reacts to any electrical fault, including ground and arc faults.

CAFCI is a relatively new technology that meets new NEC requirements for circuits requiring arc and ground fault protection.

Do Circuit Breakers Get Weak?

A circuit breaker can wear out and become weak. If a breaker trips frequently, the thermal or magnetic element can lose calibration, causing it to trip at lower amp loads than intended. A breaker constantly under thermal stress caused by overloading the circuit will eventually trip more frequently.

Let’s not forget breakers are not impervious to damage. As the internal mechanical parts wear out, they become very sensitive and may not hold under normal load amperage and temperatures.

Electricians refer to this as a bad breaker .

Will a Bad Breaker Keep Tripping

By definition, bad breaker malfunctions, so it will keep tripping until it is either replaced or rectified .

A licensed electrician performs this simple test to see if a breaker will keep tripping and determine if it can be repaired or replaced in the following steps.

• The electrician will switch off all the fixtures and appliances in the house. Also, unplug everything.
• Find the malfunctioning circuit breaker . The electrician will go to the electrical box and locate the breaker lighting orange or red or the one with the switch off.
• They will ascertain that it is the correct circuit breaker. After that, the electrician puts the breaker off.
• With the switch on, the breaker is back on as well. The electrician will plug the appliances into the outlet with the problem circuit breaker. Now, they will turn the devices and appliances on. 

If the breaker trips, the electrician will investigate the circuit’s current amount. The breaker is bad if the current is according to the appliance’s rating.

How You know if a Circuit Breaker is Bad

Breakers do wear out after a while. It has a problem if the breaker doesn’t stay on after resetting it.

Since the circuit breaker controls the electric flow in the house, it is essential to monitor it and catch signs that it has gone bad early.

Here are key signs that denote a bad circuit breaker :

It Frequently Trips

Frequent tripping could be because of a bad breaker. After tripping and resetting, your circuit breaker should stay on unless it detects high current flow. 

To ensure that the issue is not the electricity but the circuit breaker, call an electrician to examine your electricity’s flow and determine whether it is the cause of the constant tripping.

If it is not, then the circuit breaker is the problem. 

The Breaker Overheats

Electrical systems will heat up when active. Typically a breaker can heat to about 60°C (140°F) before problems arise.

Terminations for standard rated breakers: UL 489 Paragraph 7.1.4.2.2 says the temperature rise on a wiring terminal at a point to which the insulation of a wire is brought up as in actual service shall not exceed 50°C (122°F). Terminations for 100% rated breakers: UL489 Paragraph 7.1.4.3.3 says the temperature rise on the termination shall not exceed 60°C (140°F). Handles, knobs, and other user surfaces: UL489 Paragraph 7.1.4.1.6 says the maximum temperature on handles, knobs, and other surfaces subject to user contact during normal operation shall not exceed 60°C (140°F) on metallic and 85°C (185°F) on nonmetallic surfaces. Source: https://www.clipsal.com/faq/fa173839

Call an electrician immediately if the breaker becomes too hot.

There are Scorch Marks

Scorch marks around receptacles, appliances, and the electrical box should tell you your circuit breaker has gone bad.

The burn marks indicate that wiring insulation has melted off and the circuit wires are now sparking and emanating heat or fire. That means that the circuit breaker did not interrupt the excess current and reached the wires and burned them. 

You may see melted wire sheathing on the wire where it connects to the breaker.

Professional electricians can use a  thermal imaging infrared camera to locate the heat source. The infrared camera allows them to pinpoint the problem area through the walls and other construction material.

A Burning Smell

Sometimes you may smell the insulation burning, but no scorch marks are present to denote which outlet is the problem. 

With the help of the infrared camera, an electrician can help locate electrical issues. 

If you encounter a burning odor, shut off the main power and call for emergency service from an electrician. 

The electrical wires burn because power surges through the circuit, melting the wire insulation.

What is Nuisance Tripping

Nuisance tripping is when a breaker trips without a fault to warrant the interruption to the electric current flow.

Nuisance tripping occurs due to several reasons:

Stringent Protection on Circuits 

Sometimes the circuit is protected by stringent conditions that detect any variance as a fault and cause a trip. 

Such stringent conditions can be tuned to accommodate the home’s or building’s electric needs.

A Highly Sensitive Circuit Breaker

In some cases, the circuit breaker has been set to susceptible settings so that they can detect even the slightest fault, even a minor average variance.

For example, the manufacturer can set an AFCI circuit breaker to sensitive standards to detect another circuit’s arc. This common issue may occur in a daisy chain where the circuit breakers connect in a linear series. There may be a faulty electrical outlet you are unaware of on the circuit. It is common for multiple rooms to share a breaker in older houses.

The Breaker Encounters Power Under Different Conditions

The variation in the current is normal, but the breaker responds to it by tripping because the flow is outside the breaker’s regular operation.

Your circuit breaker is tripping because the voltage it is encountering is not within the standard operation. You will need to adjust the circuit breaker or the voltage to eliminate nuisance tripping.

The Breaker Trips with Nothing Plugged in

A breaker tripping with nothing plugged in occurs when a hot, neutral wire is touching somewhere in the circuit. The common causes include frayed or damaged electrical wires, loose connections, faulty electrical receptacles, light switches , or dimmers.

Electrical wire damage happens when:

• wiring is chewed by animals such as rats, squirrels , raccoons, etc
• wire sheathing and insulation ages and become frayed
• wires rub against sharp edges such as punch-outs with missing grommets or wire clamps

Loose connections often occur when electrical wire nuts come loose or electrical tape wears out causing wires to touch.

Defective wiring can be anywhere along the circuit, so it’s best to contact a licensed electrician to troubleshoot why the breaker is tripping.

Replacing a Bad Circuit Breaker

• Check the electrical panel to see the compatible approved circuit breaker brands. Also, make a note of the brand of the electric panel . This is to help you determine if there are upgrades they could recommend for the hardware.
• Order online or go to the hardware store and purchase the breaker of the same voltage as the one you are replacing.
• Go and open the electrical box and switch off the bad breaker. Loosen the terminals and remove the wires using a pair of needle-nosed pliers. Ensure the pliers have rubber insulated handles to avoid shock or electrocution since you will use the pliers to grab the live wires from the terminal. That is a safety measure.
• Remove the bad breaker. Replace it with the new breaker and slip its clips into place. Remember to switch off the replacement breaker.
• Next, using the pliers, hold the wiring and tighten the screws on the terminal. It is crucial to ensure that the wires and screws in the terminals are in the right place.
• Turn the breaker on and replace the electrical panel cover.

Can a Breaker Fail Without Tipping

If you have a newer electrical panel , it’s not likely for a breaker to fail and not trip. However, in older breaker boxes like Federal Pacific , the breaker failing to trip is common.

The main reason Federal Pacific was investigated by the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) was widespread structure fires involving breakers failing to trip when an electrical overload was present. They found that the circuit breaker contacts would fuse to the bus bar.

Modern breakers will trip when a failure occurs as an added layer of safety. Most older breakers did not have these safeguards.

With AFCI breakers, if the Internal sensing mechanism fails, the breaker reverts to a standard breaker. The AFCI sensor mechanism will no longer work, but the breaker would still trip from overcurrent protection. Therefore, you should test the AFCI breaker regularly.

Conclusion 

Listen to your circuit breaker . It’s alerting you of a problem when it trips. That communication could be a problem with the breaker itself, the circuit, or the amount of electric current coming into your home.

Hubert Miles is a licensed home inspector (RBI# 2556) with more than two decades of experience in inspection and construction. Since 2008, he has been serving South Carolina through his company, Patriot Home Inspections LLC. As a Certified Master Inspector, Hubert is dedicated to providing his expertise in home inspections, repairs, maintenance, and DIY projects.

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Master electrician Heath Eastman shows host Kevin O’Connor everything he needs to know about why and how breakers trip.

Heath Eastman talks about circuit breakers. Heath shows Kevin O’Connor that while resetting these breakers is simple, these are complex devices that monitor and protect circuits. First, the two talk about the different sizes of breakers before moving on to the different types. Finally, Heath shows Kevin how to test certain breakers to ensure they’re working properly.

Circuit breakers exist to protect people, appliances, and homes from dangerous electrical current. However, few people understand why the trip and how they operate. Master electrician Heath Eastman shows host Kevin O’Connor why this happens, and even explains a few different types of breakers.

All About Electrical Systems

Breakers protect circuits.

When electricity comes into the house, it flows through the electrical service panel. From there, the electricity flows out through different branches in the house, each controlled by a circuit breaker. Should a branch begin to overload and overheat, the breaker will trip to prevent damage.

Breaker Sizes

There are two main sizes of breakers in a house: 15 amp and 20 amp. The amp rating explains how much current the breaker can handle before it will trip, and each requires a certain size of wire. Fifteen-amp breakers require a 14-gauge wire, while 20-amp breakers require a 12-gauge wire.

How They Work

A 15-amp breaker won’t necessarily trip the moment it experiences a spike above 15 amps. Many devices draw more amps upon start-up, and these breakers allow those temporary spikes. However, should the breaker sense elevated amperage for longer than is typical, it will trip to prevent the circuit from overheating.

GFCIs and AFCIs

Beyond circuit overload protection, there are other types of breakers that offer additional coverage. These include GFCI breakers and relatively-new AFCI breakers .

GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) breakers need to experience the same amount of current going out as coming back through the circuit. If the breaker experiences a drop in returning current, it assumes that the circuit is leaking, whether it be through a water source or a person. When this imbalance occurs, the GFCI trips immediately.

AFCI (arc fault circuit interrupter) breakers sense when the circuit, a device, or an appliance is arcing (the current is jumping from the circuit and onto something else or someone). When the breaker recognizes the arc signature, it trips immediately. These breakers are relatively new and look similar to GFCI breakers, but they’re becoming a code requirement in most locations.

How to Test Breakers

Homeowners, electricians, and inspectors can test their breakers. There are devices that users can plug into an outlet and replicate an error. These devices, known as AFCI/GFCI testers, can trip the breaker altogether or replicate a ground or arc fault, triggering the breaker. This is one of the best ways to ensure that a breaker is working properly.

When to Call a Professional

If a circuit is continuously tripping, or you know that it should be tripping and isn’t, be sure to call in a professional. An electrician will be able to determine the cause of the issue and make sure your circuit breakers and electrical system are safe.

Heath explains what a circuit breaker is, why they trip and how it protects a home. A circuit breaker is a device, installed in the electrical panel, that controls whether power can be sent from the panel through a circuit. Heath explains this ability is controlled by a switch that can be operated either manually—like when a person wants to interrupt power for service—or automatically, like a breaker trip.

He says power overloads, current “leaks”, and arcs are the three reasons that would cause a breaker to trip. A Power overload happens when a device is calling for more power than a receptacle , or a circuit is designed to provide. Current “leaks” are caused when current strays from the circuit for whatever reason, though it happens most commonly when moisture is present. Arcs can happen when the wire breaks down over time (due to overloads but also due to other factors, like animals chewing the wire and other decay) but what Heath sees the most is human error.

If a specific receptacle is consistently tripping the breaker, Heath advises to have a licensed electrician identify the problem to ensure the work is done safely.

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Why Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping & How to Fix It

Have you noticed that your outlet keeps tripping? At first, it may seem like a one-time problem, but when it consistently happens, you’ll need to get to the bottom of it. Whether you are having problems with your circuit breaker, outlets, or any other aspect of your electrical system, it’s important to consult experienced electricians who can find the right solution to your issues.

Consistent tripping not only disrupts your daily routine but can also be a potential red flag for more significant underlying issues. Electricians with ample experience can find the cause of the problem and the right solution to ensure the safety and reliability of your circuit breaker and the overall electrical system.

By seeking professional guidance, you can restore peace of mind and avoid potentially hazardous situations associated with electrical malfunctions.

Is It Dangerous If a Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping?

If your circuit breaker is consistently tripping, it can potentially pose some safety risks. The main concern is that when the breaker trips, it’s a sign that there is an issue within your electrical system. If left unaddressed, these issues could lead to overheating, electrical fires, or damage to the system itself.

So, while the tripping itself isn’t harmful, it serves as a warning signal that there’s an underlying problem that, if ignored, could result in hazardous electrical incidents. It’s important to address the cause promptly with electrical inspections to maintain a safe electrical environment.

What Causes a Breaker to Keep Tripping?

There are many reasons a breaker keeps tripping. From overworking your electrical system to having appliances improperly installed, you need to ensure that your home is safe and secure before using electronics or other items that require electricity.

If you notice any of these issues in your home, reach out to an electrician immediately:

• Your Circuits Are Overloaded: A circuit breaker gets its name because it is made to break the circuit when there is too much current running through it. If you have a 20 amp circuit, for example, and you try to run 30 amps through it, the circuit breaker will block the circuit and trip to keep your home safe from the amperage overload. If you have too much plugged into one outlet, try unplugging some of the things connected to the outlet.
• You’re in Need of a Heavy-Up: Alternatively, you could contact one of our electricians at GAC Services to find out how many amps your circuit can handle and make sure your appliances aren’t running at a higher amperage! If that’s the case, you may be in need of an upgrade or heavy-up.
• Your Circuits Are Shorting: This problem is a little more serious, as it has to do with the actual wiring in your home. There are different wires attached to your outlet. When two hot wires touch each other, or a hot wire touches a neutral wire, this can cause a short. If you suspect this may be the issue, it is best to have an expert check it out.
• You’re Experiencing a Ground Fault: Just like a short circuit, a ground fault happens when the hot wire touches something it shouldn’t, such as the metal outlet box. Just like a short, it is best to have a professional take a look if you suspect this is what is causing your circuit breaker to keep tripping, since hot wires can be very dangerous.
• Your Appliances Are Faulty: Sometimes, a faulty appliance (even something simple like a hair dryer, toaster, or lamp) can cause a circuit to trip over and over again. This issue is usually easy to diagnose, and the best way to get rid of the problem is to replace the appliance!
• You Have Bad Wiring: If an outlet has not been wired correctly, this can cause the breaker to trip. If you keep getting the same results from an outlet, no matter what you try, it’s time to have an electrician check the outlet to make sure the wiring was installed correctly.

What to Do When a Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping

If you have a circuit that tends to trip over and over again, there are several things you can do. If the circuit has way too many things plugged into the circuit, you may want to unplug a few appliances and see if this fixes the problem.

If just one appliance is causing the issue, plug a different appliance in and see if the circuit trips. If it doesn’t, then you know that the appliance is likely the problem—and that means it’s either time to replace the appliance or get a dedicated electrical panel or circuit breaker installed.

If an overloaded circuit or a bad appliance doesn’t seem to be the problem, it is time to call an expert in. It is a good idea not to take care of electrical issues yourself, since handling wiring and electrical components in your home can be dangerous.

If you need help with any electrical repairs in the Gaithersburg area, reach out to the team at GAC Services . Our dedicated technicians will thoroughly inspect and repair your system and ensure your safety. Contact us today or call us at (301) 835-1095, and we’ll figure out what is tripping the breaker.

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Dunedin, fl 34698, (727) 648-6101.

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5 Reasons Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping and What You Can Do About It

Keep losing power, and aren't sure why here are five of the most common reasons why a circuit breaker keeps tripping, and what you can do to fix the problem..

1. Ground Fault

2. short circuit, 3. circuit overload, 4. arc fault, 5. damaged breakers, circuit breaker keeps tripping.

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20 Amp Breaker 101 – Everything You Need to Know

• 18 Nov, 2022
• Posted by: Circuit Breaker Wholesale

Our modern-day way of life is powered by electricity in nearly every aspect imaginable. But despite our near-inseparability from electricity, the nuts and bolts of how it works tend to be too complex for most.

If you’re building a new home, rolling your sleeves for a remodeling project, or expecting an electrical installation inspection, the question of circuit breakers is likely to pop up. Maybe you’re wondering if you need a 20 Amp breaker . If so, read on as we break down some of the most common questions we hear regarding 20 Amp circuit breakers so you can make sound and informed decisions. 

What is a 20 Amp Circuit Breaker?

A 20 Amp circuit breaker is exactly what it sounds like. It’s an electrical safety device designed to automatically stop the flow of power in a 20 Amp circuit. This helps protect the equipment and your house from the risk of fire due to a short circuit or overcurrent.

When we talk of a 20 Amp circuit, we’re referring to the amperage the circuit can handle (or how much current can flow through it safely). The maximum amperage directly translates into the Watts that can be delivered to devices or appliances on the circuit. Amp ratings also give us insight into the receptacles (outlets) that can be safely installed on the circuit.

But keep in mind that a 20 Amp rating of a circuit does not mean that you can push it to the 20-Amp limit. The rule is to ensure the power load does not exceed 80% of the circuit breaker’s limits (i.e., 16 Amps).

What is a 2-Pole 20 Amp Breaker?

In your search for 20 Amp circuit breakers, you might come across mentions of single-pole and 2-pole 20 Amp breakers. What are the differences? Well, both types of breakers serve the same function: trip when they detect an overload or short in the circuit.

As shown below, the difference comes down to the amperage, voltage, wiring, and recommended use:

Single-pole Circuit Breakers

• Provide 120 volts
• Handle 15-20 Amps
• Have one neutral and one hot wire
• Ideal for low-power appliances, such as lighting outlets, fans, and vacuums.

2-Pole 20 Amp Breakers

• Provide 240 volts,
• Handle 20-60 Amps
• Two hot wires that share one neutral wire
• Typically used to protect heavy machines like electric water heaters, electric dryers, ranges, and central air conditioners

How Many Outlets on a 20 Amp Circuit?

As mentioned earlier, the Amp rating gives us guidance on the number of outlets that can be installed on a circuit. So, how many outlets can a 20 Amp circuit accommodate without the risk of overloading it? Here’s how you can calculate the number.

• Determine the amps your appliances are expected to draw. A common estimation is 5 amps .
• How many “devices” do you have? Let’s say you have 12 of them.
• 5 amps x 12 appliances = 18 amps

The above calculation suggests that having 12 outlets, each with a device connected, exerts a load of 18 amps, which is below the 20 Amp circuit breaker’s limit. But contrary to what you may assume, this may not be safe.

According to the National Electrical Code , you cannot exceed 80% of a circuit breaker’s limit. This means that the above load of 18 amps exceeds the limit of 16 amps on a 20-Amp breaker.

For this reason, the generally accepted number of outlets that can be safely installed on a 20-Amp circuit breaker is 10 (i.e., 1.5 amps x 10 = 15 amps ).

Compatibility of 20 Amp Circuit Breakers

You’ll notice that there are several brands of circuit breakers and panels in the market—from Siemens to Cutler Hammer and Square D . Each brand tends to have its pros. For example:

• Cutler Hammer 20-Amp breakers are a popular option, beloved for their variety of options and availability.
• Square D 20-Amp breakers enjoy a rosy, long-standing reputation for their reliability and high quality.
• Siemens 20-Amp breakers are known for their ergonomic designs, high-quality materials, and durability, which make them a top recommendation for professional electricians.
• Eaton 20-Amp breakers are often designed for easy installation. They are also high quality.

The brand you pick often depends on the power requirements, the quality of components, the location of your panel ( can it handle the atmospheric condition ?), and safety measures ( does it hold enough capacity to protect your home ?).

Now let’s say you’ve determined the ideal breakers for your building, but a couple of them need replacing after a while, or you decide to add a new one to your panel. What next? Must you use breakers from the same brand as the panel? Probably yes, but not necessarily.

Some circuit breakers are designed to be electrically and mechanically interchangeable with those manufactured by other brands. This is a great convenience for consumers.

Here are some ways to determine if a particular circuit breaker ( say, a Square D 20-Amp breaker ) is compatible with your panel (e.g., a Cutler Hammer panel).

• Check the panel manufacturer’s manual for a list of compatible models and brands
• Does it fit? Then maybe it’s mechanically compatible but check for electrical compatibility.
• Consult an electrician for professional advice.

Where to Get a Quality 20-Amp Breaker?

Looking for high-quality 20-Amp breakers ? We got you covered. We have one of the largest inventories available to meet your every need.

As a one-stop supplier of circuit breakers, we house products from all the most recognized brands in the market. Give Circuit Breaker Wholesale a call at (800) 211-4962  and let us know what you’re looking for!

How to Prevent Circuit Overloads

I t happens all the time. You're in the basement with a space heater running, and all of the sudden the lights go out and the heater stops just because someone in the bathroom turned on the hairdryer.

The problem? An overloaded circuit.

What Is a Circuit Overload?

The power needed by the hairdryer added to the load from the space heater, the and any other devices connected to the same circuit, and all of them running at once exceeded the capacity of the electrical wiring.

An electrical circuit with too many electrical devices turned on can exceed the circuit limit. Circuit breakers or fuses will automatically shut off the circuit at the main panel. In most cases, the device will be a circuit breaker that trips open. In older systems a fuse will blow.

In this article we’ll tell you how to sort out the circuits in your electrical system and avoid overloads. You’ll not only avoid occasional blackouts but also avoid chronic overloading when you expand your system to include additional outlets, light fixtures or holiday lights.

How Circuits Work in Your Home

The nerve center of your electrical system is the main panel, usually a gray metal box about the size of a cookie sheet, that typically sits in some obscure spot in a utility room, the garage or the basement. Three large wires from the utility company feed the main panel. Although you might spot the wires outside if they’re overhead, they’ll be encased in conduit inside for safety.

Circuit breakers (or fuses) in your main panel limit the power to a level that your wiring system can safely handle and funnel that power through branch circuits, the wires that run to various parts of your house. If you turn on too much stuff and the power demand on any one circuit exceeds the limits of the circuit breaker (or fuse), the breaker snaps open and shuts down the entire circuit, serving you notice that you have an overload or some other problem.

At first glance, the spider web of cables that spreads out from your main panel might look impossibly complex. Fortunately, the National Electrical Code (NEC) imposes a kind of circuit logic that simplifies the system. The circuits in the main panel are roughly divided into two types—dedicated and general purpose.

Dedicated circuits include those serving a single large-draw appliance like the furnace, range, built-in microwave, etc. (see chart).

Other dedicated circuits are for special uses like small kitchen appliances, laundry equipment and the bathroom. Because of the potentially large electrical power draw on these circuits, the NEC restricts the use of them.

Most of these should be labeled at the main panel, although they often aren’t. And don’t be surprised if you find other outlets on these circuits in older and remodeled homes. Over the years the NEC has gradually increased the number of dedicated circuits, as electrical appliance use has grown.

General-purpose circuits, on the other hand, serve multiple outlets such as lighting and most of the rest of the receptacles in your home. Normally, you can tap into one of these circuits when you need extra power or want to add another outlet. But not always. If you’re adding a receptacle for a high-power use device such as an air conditioner or electric heater, you might have to run an entirely new circuit.

Power Required for Household Appliances and Applications 

(measured watts unless otherwise noted)

• Electric Range 5,000 (240 volts)
• Electric Dryer 6,000 (240 volts)
• Space Heater 1,000 and up
• Clothes Washer 1,150
• Furnace (blower) 800
• Microwave 700–1,400
• Refrigerator (not required) 700
• Freezer (not required) 700
• Dishwasher 1,400
• Central Vacuum 800
• Whirlpool/Jacuzzi 1,000 and up
• Garbage Disposer 600–1,200
• Kitchen Countertop (two circuits): Toaster 900
• Coffee maker 800
• Toaster oven 1,400
• Bathroom: Blow dryer 300–1,200

Solutions to Overloaded Circuits

The immediate solution to an overload is simple: Shift some plug-in devices from the overloaded circuit to another general-purpose circuit. Then, flip the circuit breaker back on or replace the fuse and turn stuff back on.

In practice, however, it isn’t so easy to know that you’ve found a good, long-term solution. First you have to locate outlets on another general-purpose circuit. Then you have to find a convenient way to reach it. Resist the temptation to solve the problem with an extension cord. Extension cords are for short-term use. They’re not to be used as permanent wiring or fastened into place.

To trace your general-purpose circuits, begin with the labels on the main panel. They’re supposed to give you some idea where the circuits run. They’re usually accurate for dedicated circuits, but they’re often too vague to help you pinpoint general-purpose outlets. Chances are, you’ll have to map out these circuits yourself.

To trace a circuit, turn off its breaker at the main panel (or unscrew the fuse), then go through your home testing outlets—flipping on light switches and plugged-in devices and plugging in a test light into open receptacles.

Test both the upper and lower receptacle of standard duplex receptacles, because they’re sometimes wired to different circuits. And make sure switched receptacles are “on” before testing them. Check outdoor lights and receptacles too. Outlets that don’t work are connected to the circuit that’s off. Write your results down, or put them on a simple floor-plan diagram so you won’t forget or skip locations.

Repeat for other circuits until you know what’s what. Don’t be surprised if you find general-purpose outlets on dedicated circuits. It’s not unusual to find the family room on the same circuit as the refrigerator. (And remember to reset the clocks when you’re done!)

Once you’ve mapped out the general-purpose circuits (even better— all your circuits), sharpen your pencil and add up the existing electrical loads on them. The image below shows the loads of the various lights and devices that were originally connected to one of the circuits found in the image above. Learn how to calculate the electrical load .

Light bulbs usually have their wattage stamped on them. Motors are often rated in amperes or “amps” (amps x 120 volts = watts), a figure you’ll find on a plate on the motor or elsewhere on the device. TVs and other electronics usually have a watt rating on a backside label. Then figure the additional load you want to add, in this case the holiday lights.

Devices temporarily plugged in, such as a vacuum cleaner or temporarily used portable electric heater, don’t count. Devices (for example, holiday lights or an often used electric heater) with long-term uses do count.

A circuit is overloaded if: A. The total load exceeds 1,800 watts for a 15-amp circuit. (120 volts x 15 amps = 1,800 watts.) Look for the amp rating of the circuit in tiny numbers on the circuit breaker switch or fuse to determine how many outlets you can have on a 15-amp circuit. For a 20-amp circuit, the load limit is 2,400 watts. B. On a multiple-outlet circuit, you find any appliance or equipment rated at more than half the circuit rating, 900 watts for a 15-amp circuit. (These large-draw appliances should have dedicated circuits.)

Upon checking, we found that the example circuit in the first illustration here exceeded both the 1,800-watt limit for a 15-amp circuit and the 900-watt limit for any one device. The best solution to solve this overload situation is to run a dedicated circuit to the biggest load. In practice, to avoid high installation costs, professional electricians run new circuits to the appliances they can reach most easily.

In our case, a professional electrician would run two new circuits, one to the refrigerator (700 watts) and another to the outlet handling the heater (1,000-plus watts).

Practical advice: Don’t load your circuits to the maximum (figure about 80 percent). Otherwise, you’re more likely to have hassles with overloads when you temporarily plug in high-draw devices such as a vacuum cleaner (800 to 1,100 watts).

Map Your Circuits

Sketch your floor plan and draw in your electrical outlets, labeling them according to their circuit number from the main panel. Circuits 11 and 12 are general-purpose circuits.

Adding a New Outlet

After calculating the loads on your general-purpose circuits, you can redistribute the loads (plug-in devices) so no single circuit has more than 1,800 watts. This isn’t always convenient, however. You’ll often have to add a new circuit, as we did in our example, or install a new outlet to get the power where you want it.

To add a new outlet, find a circuit with sufficient capacity (following rules A and B above) that has a convenient junction box to tap into. You can sometimes find easy access to lights or switch boxes in an unfinished basement. Otherwise, look to the attic. The junction boxes in most attics (assuming your attic is accessible) are usually buried under insulation, so you’ll probably have to rake the insulation aside. (Wear a dust mask, goggles and long sleeves if you do this!) Look for junction boxes near the access hole first, or over ceiling light fixtures in rooms below. (Remember: The power must come directly to the light box, not from a switch.)

CAUTION : Electrical boxes might contain wires from several circuits. Test the wires with a voltage tester before touching them to make sure the power is off.

Practical advice: If the wiring in a box looks complicated, find a different box or call in an electrician to make the connections.

Make sure the existing box is large enough to accommodate the additional new cable. Wires packed into too small a box can overheat.

Practical advice: It’s often easier and faster to run an entirely new circuit from the main panel, rather than find and tap into an existing circuit. If you install the new outlet yourself and run the new cable back to the main panel, an electrician will make the hook-up inside the panel.

CAUTION : Working inside the main panel is dangerous. Let a pro do it.

Safe Electrical Practices Pay Off

Always apply for an electrical permit from your local building inspections department when you undertake an electrical project. The permit not only ensures that your work will be inspected for proper technique and safety but also that you've properly analyzed your home's circuitry and are following a sound plan. Here's what you need to know about overcurrent protection .