What is what to do when circuit breaker trips?

When a circuit breaker trips, it's crucial to address the issue safely and methodically. Here's what to do:

1. Safety First: Before doing anything, ensure you're standing on a dry surface and not touching anything metal.

2. Identify the Breaker: Locate your electrical panel and identify the tripped breaker. It will usually be in the "off" or a midway position, distinct from the other breakers.

3. Reset the Breaker:

   • Turn it OFF: Firmly push the tripped breaker to the "OFF" position. This ensures it's fully reset.
   • Turn it ON: Then, move the breaker to the "ON" position.

4. Monitor: After resetting, monitor the circuit. If the breaker trips again immediately or shortly after, there's likely a persistent problem.

5. Unplug Appliances: If the breaker trips repeatedly, unplug appliances on that circuit. Try resetting the breaker again after unplugging all appliances. Then, plug in each appliance one at a time to identify which one is causing the trip.

6. Consider Overload: A common cause is an overloaded circuit. This means too many devices are drawing power from the same circuit. Try spreading the load by plugging appliances into outlets on different circuits.

7. Check for Shorts: A short circuit can also cause a breaker to trip. This often happens when there's damaged wiring or a faulty appliance. Look for signs of damaged cords or outlets.

8. Ground Fault: Ground faults are another cause, often occurring in damp areas or with appliances near water (like in kitchens or bathrooms).

9. Call an Electrician: If the breaker continues to trip after trying these steps, or if you're uncomfortable working with electricity, contact a qualified electrician. Persistent tripping indicates a more serious problem that needs professional attention. Never attempt to bypass or tamper with the circuit breaker.