How to Stop Your Circuit Breaker from Tripping
Are you experiencing constant power outages due to a tripping circuit breaker? It can be frustrating and even cause safety hazards in your home. Circuit breakers are an essential safety feature in most houses to prevent electrical overloads and protect against fires. However, it could be time-consuming and sometimes costly to have an electrician come to your house and solve the problem for you. But don’t panic; this article provides you with some helpful tips and information to help you resolve the problem yourself.
Identify Overloaded Circuit
An overloaded circuit is one of the most common reasons you may be experiencing breaker tripping. All circuits have an ampere rating for the amount of electrical current they can handle. If the current the circuit is carrying is more significant than the ampere rating, the circuit will trip, cutting off power. Identify the amperage rating of the circuit that is experiencing tripping by looking for a metal rating plate attached to the panel door or the circuit breaker. Ensure you don’t plug into one outlet several electrical appliances or use an extension cord that provides power to several devices simultaneously. Spread the load by plugging some devices into different outlets or using different circuits or reducing the total demand for electrical power by limiting the use of devices.
Troubleshoot Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)
Another specific type of circuit breaker is the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI). It is designed explicitly for areas where water is frequently used and has a higher risk of electrical shock. A GFCI circuit breaker can trip if there are ground faults or an imbalance in the current flowing through the circuit. To troubleshoot the GFCI circuit breaker, locate it in the main electrical panel and press the reset button located on the circuit breaker. If the circuit trips regularly, it is often an indication of a faulty circuit and needs the attention of an electrician for repair. Remember that a GFCI-protected outlet can also be the cause of tripping issues if it is not regularly maintained or located in a humid environment.
Meticulously Test the Circuit
The circuit breaker could also trip due to old wiring or insulation that has worn out. Other defects, such as loose connections, can also be the cause of breaker tripping. To identify the problem, twist and wiggle the wires, looking at the connection at both ends. Any loose or corroded connections need to be tightened or replaced altogether. Consider seeking the help of an electrician if there seems to be a significant issue.
Replace or Upgrade Circuit Breaker
If you have done all you can and the circuit breaker still trips, it might be worn out or malfunctioning. Getting a new circuit breaker is often the only solution in this case. Once you have purchased a new circuit breaker, switch off the panel and disconnect the breaker from the bus bar by slowly pulling it out of the slot. Then, remove the knockout plugs or metal frame to allow the new breaker to fit in. Finally, slide in the new circuit breaker and ensure the metal frame or knockout plug is securely attached to the panel. Don’t switch on the panel until you are sure that everything has been securely re-attached and reconnected.
General Electrical Maintenance
Lastly, it is essential to maintain your electrical system periodically to prevent circuit breaker tripping and other electrical faults. Schedule regular breaker testing and electrical inspections by a licensed electrician to ensure that the breaker trips are never a safety hazard. Qualified electricians can evaluate the electrical load and suggest suitable upgrades, such as adding new circuits or changing to higher-rated breakers. Regular maintenance significantly contributes to fault reduction and keeps your lighting and appliances running efficiently.
Conclusion
Electrical faults and circuit breaker tripping can be a pain, but often, they can be resolved through a systematic troubleshooting process. Preventive maintenance and regular inspections can also reduce the frequency and seriousness of electrical mishaps. If you discover that the problem is beyond your knowledge or general scope, don’t hesitate to call a licensed electrician. Better safe than sorry.
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