Are power shortages and sudden shutoffs affecting your appliances and daily routines? Here are some common reasons that may cause your circuit breaker to keep tripping.
Overloaded Circuit: Electrical wires have a maximum current limit, or ampacity, that they can safely carry. When this limit is exceeded, your home’s breaker will trip to avoid dangerous levels and possible fire.
Outdated Electrical Panel: If you’re resetting the breakers a few times a week, this is a warning sign that a circuit breaker replacement or upgrade is in store. Other signs include breakers that don’t stay reset, along with charring or evidence of small electrical fires inside the panel. Give our professional electrical team a call as soon as you notice any of these warning signs.
Short Circuiting: This happens when a live wire touches a neutral wire in an electrical outlet, causing an electrical surge within the circuit. The resulting heat from the short circuit will trip your breaker to prevent a possible fire.
If you suspect a short circuit, unplug your appliances and inspect the wires for melted coverings. You might also notice an acrid burning smell coming from the outlet or panel. Our trained electricians are standing by to help you find the source of the problem.
Ground Fault: A ground fault happens when a live wire touches a grounding wire or any grounded part of the system, causing electricity to take an unexpected path to the ground. Much like a short circuit, the sudden increase in electrical current will cause your breaker trip. This can be caused by improper or worn wiring and damaged appliances. In this case, there is a high risk of electrical shock, and it is best handled by the pros.
Solutions
Not sure where to start when it comes to addressing your electrical issues? Below are a few solutions directly from our experts.
Install Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) Outlets
GFCI outlets are designed to protect you from ground faults, which can cause burns or electrical shock. The basic function of such an outlet is to detect when it’s putting out more electricity than it is getting and immediately shutting the circuit off once it senses this—something regular outlets are not equipped to do. To restore electricity, simply press the RESET button. GFCI outlets are required in any space where there may be water, such as your bathrooms, kitchen, laundry room, and even garage.
Get a Whole Home Surge Protector
A Whole Home Surge Protector is a special device that is installed directly to your home’s main electrical panel. Whole house surge protection is vital to safeguard against electronic mishaps and damage to your appliances. Without this device, a power surge could cause serious damage to the electronics and appliances you and your family depend on the most, which can lead to costly repairs or replacements.
Invest in an Electrical Panel Upgrade
If your circuit breaker can’t handle the power demand your home requires, or you’re experiencing the issues listed above, then it may be time for an upgrade. In addition, having an upgraded electrical panel not only ensures the safety and efficiency of your home, but can add to the value of your property.
When it comes to any work involving your circuit breaker panel, it should only be done by a trained and licensed technician. This is a safety issue for any home. Contact us today to schedule your electrical appointment and allow our professionals to help determine the best solution for you!