Why Does My Circuit Breaker Keep Tripping? Complete Guide
A tripping breaker is doing its job—protecting your home from fire. But frequent tripping signals a problem that needs attention. Here's how to diagnose the cause and when to call for help.
Breakers Are Safety Devices
When a breaker trips, it's preventing wires from overheating and potentially starting a fire. Never bypass a breaker or replace it with a higher-amp version without rewiring.
Three Reasons Breakers Trip
1Overload (Most Common)
Too many devices drawing power on one circuit. Common when running multiple high-draw appliances: hair dryer + space heater, or multiple kitchen appliances at once.
Fix: Spread devices across different circuits, or add a dedicated circuit for high-draw appliances.
2Short Circuit (Serious)
Hot wire touching neutral or ground wire. Causes immediate, high-current flow. Often caused by damaged cords, failed appliances, or wiring damage from nails/screws.
Signs: Breaker trips immediately when reset, burning smell, black marks on outlets.
3Ground Fault (Dangerous)
Current leaking to ground through water, damaged insulation, or faulty equipment. Common in bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor circuits. Can cause electrocution.
Signs: GFCI outlets keep tripping, breaker trips when using specific appliances near water.
Troubleshooting Steps
- 1Identify which breaker tripped (handle will be in middle position)
- 2Unplug everything on that circuit
- 3Turn breaker fully OFF, then back ON
- 4If it stays on, plug devices back in one at a time
- 5If it trips with nothing plugged in, call an electrician
When to Call an Electrician Immediately
- Breaker trips immediately when reset (won't stay on)
- Burning smell from panel or outlets
- Visible damage, melting, or discoloration
- Breaker feels hot to touch
- Same breaker trips repeatedly over time
Why We Can't Diagnose Remotely
Circuit troubleshooting requires hands-on testing:
- • Measuring current draw on circuits
- • Testing for shorts with a multimeter
- • Inspecting wiring connections
- • Checking breaker condition
- • Tracing circuit paths
A description of symptoms helps, but diagnosis requires physical inspection.
Related Resources
Breaker Won't Stay Reset?
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Schedule ServiceTired of Tripping Breakers?
If your breakers trip frequently, it may be time for a professional assessment. Overloaded circuits, faulty wiring, and worn breakers are fire hazards that need expert diagnosis. Couillard Electric serves Sheboygan County, Ozaukee County, Washington County, and surrounding SE Wisconsin communities.