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Bonded, and Insured.
Bonded, and Insured.
One of the most common issues homeowners face is an incessant trip of the circuit breaker. It starts with the inconvenience of power loss, swiftly followed by a dash to the electrical panel to reset the switch. This can repeat multiple times in a day and, unsurprisingly, gets old really fast. But before you yank your hair out in frustration, or worse, attempt a DIY solution that could be dangerous, take a deep breath and read on.
Understanding why your circuit breaker is tripping can save you more than a headache; it could prevent a potential fire hazard. This blog post explores the various reasons behind circuit breaker trips and offers a safe, step-by-step guide on how to address the issue. Additionally, we will touch upon the importance of professional electricians in ensuring that your home's electrical system remains safe and efficient.
There are several possibilities for a tripping circuit breaker, each pointing to different root causes that demand unique solutions.
The most common cause of a tripping circuit is an overloaded electrical circuit. This occurs when the demand for electricity exceeds the circuit's rated capacity. High wattage appliances like microwaves, space heaters, or hair dryers can tip the scales and are often the culprits.
A short circuit is a more serious issue. It happens when a hot wire touches a neutral or a ground wire. This results in a surge of electricity that the circuit cannot handle, causing the breaker to trip. Visually identifying a short circuit can be difficult, and it should never be tackled by an amateur.
Similar to a short circuit, a ground fault occurs when a hot wire comes into contact with the ground wire or a grounded part of the electrical box. The difference is that it's usually not as severe as a short circuit. Ground faults might be found in older homes or near areas with high moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens.
Before you call in the professionals, there are some steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem safely and effectively.
The first course of action is to determine which device or area is on the circuit that is causing the trip. Unplug all devices from the outlets in the affected area and then reset the circuit breaker. If the breaker holds, the problem likely lies with one of the devices. If the breaker still trips, there may be an issue with the wiring or the circuit itself.
Distribute high-wattage devices across multiple circuits to alleviate the strain. Consider using power strips with surge protection to spread the load. It is important to ensure that you are not simply overloading multiple circuits, as this can pose similar risks.
If the breaker continues to trip, you may need to inspect the wiring of the affected area, looking for any signs of damage or exposure. Additionally, test GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets, and ensure they are functioning properly, by pressing the test and reset buttons on the outlet.
There are certain points in this process where the assistance of a professional electrician is not just advisable but imperative.
If you’ve followed the DIY steps and the circuit breaker continues to trip, it's time to call a professional. Continuing to reset the breaker might solve the immediate problem, but it's just a band-aid on something that could be a more significant safety concern.
If a tripped circuit follows a specific event, such as a thunderstorm or power outage, there could be damage to the wiring or appliances that require expert attention.
If you find that you're repeatedly fixing the same problem, you're likely just treating the symptom and not the root cause. A professional electrician can diagnose and permanently fix the issue, preventing future trips and potential hazards.
For Apopka residents, establishing a relationship with local electricians is not just good practice; it's a safety measure. Spectrum Electric Inc is a leading electrical service provider in Apopka, Florida, and takes pride in professional, prompt, and reliable service.
With modern life demanding more from our electrical systems and the safety of our homes at stake, the services of a trusted electrician cannot be underestimated. Timely checks and necessary upgrades can make the difference between a comfortable, trouble-free living space and one fraught with risk.
Electrical issues are not a domain for the dabbling DIY-er. By learning when to take matters into your own hands and when to seek professional help, you’re ensuring that your home is powered by safety and efficiency. Don’t sweat the next time that breaker trips; instead, consider it a loud nudge to keep your home's electrical health in check. If you're looking for electricians in Apopka, FL, contact Spectrum Electric Inc today to schedule an appointment.