How to Fix a Tripped Breaker: 5 Simple Steps
A tripped breaker can be a frustrating situation—but it doesn’t have to be. If you’ve tried everything to get your breaker back up and running with no luck, we can help. We’ll teach you how to fix a tripped breaker, answer common questions, and share expert electrical insights. Let’s get started.
In Charge Electric Tip: Is it a GFCI outlet giving you trouble? We can help with that, too. Learn how to reset a GFCI outlet here.
How to Fix a Tripped Breaker in 5 Simple Steps
Before you get started and try to solve the problem, make sure to keep your safety in mind. We recommend double-checking that all devices connected to the malfunctioning circuit are disconnected, looking around the location for any water damage, and wearing rubber-soled shoes if you have them. Then, you can follow the steps below.
- Find the circuit breaker panel
- Locate the breaker that’s been tripped and is in the “off” or in-between position
- Make sure the breaker is fully turned to the “off” position
- Switch the breaker to the “on” position
- To make sure this fixes your problem, check that the power is restored
While completing this process, you’ll want to avoid pressing the yellow test button to try and reset the breaker.
What is a Circuit Breaker (or Power Breaker)?
A circuit breaker is also often called an electrical fuse or power breaker and is a part of your electrical panel. It is designed for your protection and will automatically turn off, or switch off when an overload or short circuit is taking place.
A tripped circuit breaker ensures that injuries, fires, or damage to the wiring doesn’t occur.
What Causes a Tripped Breaker?
When it comes to a tripped circuit breaker, the cause of the problem can vary. Common causes include:
- An overload of power: When you have too many devices in use or are using several high-amp devices, such as heaters, microwaves, or dryers, this can cause your breaker to trip.
- A short circuit: This can occur if there is a fault or a broken wire and may lead to issues with overheating or even a fire.
- A ground fault: When electricity hits the ground, often through a device, water, or person, a ground fault can occur and lead to a tripped breaker.
4 Signs of a Tripped Breaker
There are many ways to detect a tripped breaker. Check out some of the most common signs below so you can learn to spot one like a pro:
- Outlets or appliances aren’t working
- Lights are flickering
- Unusual buzzing sounds are coming from the panel
- You can smell burning or see smoke
So, you’ve noticed one of these signs. What next? First, make sure you and your loved ones are safe. Then, make your way to your electrical panel. It is important to note that a tripped breaker will likely be relatively easy to spot. It might be in between the “on” and “off” areas or fully switched to the “off” position.
Your specific panel may or may not be labeled for further identification. More modern panels sometimes also have indicators in the form of lights to let you know if a breaker has been tripped. Take a look at your panel to see which situation applies to your breaker and then proceed from there.
How Can I Prevent a Circuit Breaker From Tripping?
Want to avoid a tripped breaker in the future? Follow a few simple guidelines to keep your power on track:
- Use surge protectors: You can put these on all your most valuable devices to prevent an overload.
- Stay up-to-date on maintenance: Label your breakers to better help with identification and have qualified electricians check out your systems often to avoid problems and a tripped circuit breaker.
- Keep an eye on your wiring: Give your systems and appliances a lookover from time to time. You can then spot faulty or old wiring that may lead to shorts or overloads.
- Spread appliances out: In order to avoid an overload, you should plug in appliances across multiple outlets or circuits. This can help prevent a tripped breaker.
- Seek professional assistance: If you have to fix your circuit breaker often, it might be time to upgrade to something more up-to-date or time to increase your capacity with additional circuits—especially if you have an older home.
My Tripped Breaker Won’t Reset, What Should I Do?
If you’re struggling to reset a tripped breaker, there are several things you can try to fix the problem. Explore our troubleshooting tips.
- Turn off your devices: Shut off or unplug all of the devices connected to your breaker that won’t reset.
- Try to locate the problem: Look around to see if there are any signs of a surge or if you notice any overheating or damage. Wiring issues and malfunctions may be the culprit.
- Check for an overload: If you suspect overloaded circuits may be your problem, you should spread your devices out over different circuits in your home.
- Rule out a short circuit: If your breaker tripped again right after resetting it, a short circuit may be the problem.
- Contact an electrician: If you feel your tripped breaker is a safety issue or you’re struggling to identify the problem, reach out to In Charge Electric today. We can help fix your circuit breaker and restore your power.
Tripped Breaker FAQs
1. How many times can a circuit breaker trip before it goes bad?
Breakers are usually able to trip thousands of times without being dangerous, but there is no set amount that a breaker will trip before it goes “bad.” You’ll want to diagnose the problem, taking notice of short circuits or overloads. If you find that a tripped breaker is occurring often or your panel is showing signs of wear and tear, it may be time for an upgrade.
2. How do I know if a circuit breaker is faulty?
If there are signs of damage, burning, or heat coming off the panel, your tripped breaker may be faulty. This can also be the case if it simply won’t reset or is constantly tripping. If your breaker is 15 years old and up, it also may be worn out.
3. How much does it cost to replace a circuit breaker panel?
While cost can vary based on a wide range of circumstances, such as panel size, type, and amp, a circuit breaker panel replacement averages between $500 and $3,000. Reach out to us for more information!
Find a Trusted Texas Electrician Near You to Fix Your Tripped Breaker!
Remember, safety comes first when resetting a tripped circuit breaker. Explore our tips above for help fixing your system.
If you think that a complicated or unsafe electrical situation is taking place, give In Charge Electric a call today! We’re a trusted residential electrician near you and serve several locations across the great state of Texas, including Austin, San Antonio, Dallas, and Fort Worth.