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Fixing a Tripped Circuit Breaker

easyHome Repair15-30 minutes6 steps

Safety Warnings

  • Do not touch exposed live wires to avoid electric shock.
  • Disconnect badly-frayed wires from the power supply immediately.
  • Do not replace fuses or breakers with higher rated capacities as this can damage wiring and equipment.

Tools Needed

Flashlight — check locally
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Steps

1
Identify the circuit that has lost power and locate the electrical service panel.
Tip: A circuit breaker acts as a safety device to stop current if there is danger or overload.
2
Unplug or turn off all appliances and electronics connected to the tripped circuit to reduce the electrical load.
Tip: Too great an electrical load is a common cause for breaker tripping.
3
Open the panel door and look for the breaker switch that is in the 'Off' position or stuck in a middle position between 'On' and 'Off'.
Tip: The tripped breaker will be visually distinct from the others.
4
Switch the tripped breaker fully to the 'Off' position first.
Tip: The breaker must be fully reset to off before it can be switched back on.
5
Switch the breaker firmly to the 'On' position to restore power.
Tip: Ensure the switch clicks firmly into place.
6
Test the circuit by plugging in devices one by one to see if the breaker trips again.
Tip: If it trips immediately, there may be a short circuit or a broken wire.

Pro Tips

  • If a breaker trips frequently, it usually indicates that too much electrical load has been added to that specific circuit.

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Sources

Synthesized from 3 verified sources:

Gutenberg: Electricity for the 4-H ScientistView →
Gutenberg: Electrical GuideView →
Gutenberg: Dwelling ConstructionView →