Why Does My Breaker Keep Tripping?

A breaker that trips is not broken. It is doing exactly what it was designed to do, which is cut power before a circuit can overheat. The real question is why it keeps happening. Here are the usual reasons, in plain terms, so you know whether it is a simple fix or worth a closer look.

Too much on one circuit

The most common cause is an overloaded circuit. If a breaker trips when you run the microwave and the toaster at the same time, or when a space heater kicks on, that circuit is simply being asked to carry more than it is rated for. Moving one device to a different outlet on another circuit often solves it. If it keeps happening, the circuit may need to be upgraded or a new one added.

A short circuit

A short happens when a hot wire touches a neutral or a ground, and it trips the breaker instantly. This can come from a damaged cord, a failing appliance, or a wiring problem inside a wall or outlet. A short is worth having checked, because it points to a specific fault rather than just too much load.

A ground fault

If the breaker that trips is a GFCI, it may be sensing current leaking where it should not go, often from moisture. This is common in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor outlets. Sometimes it is a one time nuisance trip, and sometimes it means water is getting somewhere it should not.

An aging or weak breaker

Breakers do wear out. One that trips at less than its rated load, or feels loose, may simply need to be replaced. This is a quick job for an electrician.

When to call us

If a breaker trips once and resets fine, it was probably just a momentary overload. If it trips over and over, trips the moment you reset it, or is warm to the touch, that is worth a look. We can find the real cause and tell you honestly whether it is a small fix or something more. We serve Hayden, Coeur d'Alene, Post Falls, Rathdrum, Dalton Gardens, Liberty Lake, and Spokane Valley. Call or text 208-352-0662 and we will help you feel safe and informed.