Breaker keeps tripping: common causes and when to call an electrician
A tripping breaker is protecting your home. Overload, short circuit or ground fault: how to tell them apart and when it’s time to call a licensed electrician.
A tripping breaker is doing exactly its job: cutting power before the circuit overheats. The real question is why.
The three most common causes
Overload
Too many devices on one circuit: a space heater, hair dryer and kettle all at once, for example. The breaker trips when demand goes over its rating.
Short circuit
A hot wire touches a neutral or another conductor. The breaker trips instantly, sometimes with a burning smell or a black mark on an outlet.
Ground fault
Current leaks to ground, often because of moisture: bathrooms, kitchens, outdoor outlets.
What you can do
- Unplug everything on the affected circuit.
- Reset the breaker by pushing it fully to off, then back to on.
- Plug devices back in one at a time to find the one causing the trip.
When to call an electrician
- the breaker trips with nothing plugged in;
- you smell burning or see a scorched outlet;
- the panel feels warm to the touch;
- it keeps happening several times a week.
These call for a licensed electrician. See electrician in Montreal or electrician in Québec City.