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Electrical
Why does my circuit breaker keep tripping?
A breaker that trips repeatedly isn't just annoying — it's a sign of overloaded circuits or faulty wiring. Here's what's causing it.
Most common causes
- 01Overloaded circuit (too many devices on one circuit)
- 02Short circuit in an appliance or wiring
- 03Ground fault (electricity taking unintended path)
- 04Failing or worn-out breaker
- 05Undersized circuit for the load
What to do right now
1
Unplug everything on the tripped circuit2
Reset the breaker once by flipping it fully off then back on3
Plug items back in one at a time to identify which device is overloading4
Do not tape or wedge a breaker to hold it in the on position — this is a fire hazardWhen to call a professional
Call an electrician if: the breaker trips with minimal load, trips immediately after resetting, you smell burning from an outlet, or the breaker is warm or discolored.
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