A circuit breaker trips to protect you. When it keeps tripping, it's telling you something is wrong. Here's how to read the signal.
Overloaded circuit
Too many devices on one circuit. Common in kitchens and home offices. The fix is often a Dedicated Circuit Installation.
Short circuit
A hot wire touching neutral. The breaker trips instantly, sometimes with a spark or burning smell. Stop resetting it and call our 24 hour electricians in San Francisco, Los Angeles or your own city.
Ground fault
Usually on GFCI-protected circuits near water. Moisture in an outdoor outlet is a frequent cause; Outlet Installation of a weatherproof GFCI solves it.
Failing breaker
Breakers wear out. A breaker that trips under light load or won't reset needs Circuit Breaker Replacement.
What you can check safely
- Unplug everything on the circuit and reset once.
- Look for warm outlets, discoloration or a smell.
- Do not keep resetting a breaker that trips immediately.
When it's an emergency
Burning smells, sparks, a hot panel or a breaker that won't reset are emergencies. Rupert Electric answers 24/7 at (833) 652-8933 in San Jose, Bakersfield, Anaheim and every California city.