What To Do When A Circuit Breaker Trips?

A circuit breaker is what detects any faults or overloads within electrical circuits. These devices will stop the electrical power of a circuit when they detect an overloaded circuit. This causes a tripped circuit meaning that the electrical flow through the circuit has stopped and the appliances and lights cannot be used. 

These are extremely important in protecting people, appliances and systems from electrical overloads and faults. They are often located in an electrical switchboard and contain safety switches or RCD switches. A fuse box is often installed into older homes, but both circuit breakers and fuse boxes protect from loose connections and electrical faults.

It is important that when the circuit breaker trips to remain calm and be safe at all times. Even though the circuit breaker is safe it is extremely important to work safely and carefully during the process. Follow the below steps to know exactly what to do when the circuit breaker has tripped:

1. Find where the circuit breaker is located if this is not already known. They are most likely located in large metal boxes or with the main electrical switchboard. The circuit breakers can be found in most areas on the side of the house or in utility areas, such as the laundry, basement or garage. When the circuit breaker has been located find where the switches are and how they operate.
2. Identify which circuit breaker is tripped within the main panel. This is often easy to find as one switch is in a different position when compared to the other circuit breaker switches. It will most likely be in the off position while the other switches remain in the on position. Another sign that the circuit has been tripped is that a red or orange light is on. This light helps indicate to a person that the circuit breaker is tripped. 
3. Turn off all the lights, appliances and powerpoint which are connected to the specific circuit which has tripped. These will most likely already not draw any electrical power as the circuit breaker has prevented any electricity to flow within the circuit. It is a safe practice to turn off all of these appliances and lights anyway to prevent further issues. 
4. Flip the switch into the on position after all the lights and appliances have been turned off. Some circuit breakers might need the level to be pushed to the off position completely then back into the on position. The level will have some resistance which will also create a clicking sound to alert that the breaker is on. 
5. The final step is to see that the appliances and lights work perfectly after the specific circuit has been tripped and reset. If any of the systems, lights or appliances trip or cause the circuit breaker to trip again then it is strongly recommended that an electrician is contacted to help.

Each electrical system is designed to handle a specific amount of electrical energy or a certain electrical load. If the electrical system receives too much power which it can handle then the circuit breaker will stop the electrical current. An electrical overload can cause appliances, systems and lights to trip or cause serious issues such as sparks, hot wires and potential fires.

What Are Some Signs of Electrical Overloading?

The main signs to look out for that indicate a circuit is overloaded with electricity are:

• The circuit breaker has tripped, causing the power to stop flowing to that circuit and the switch has flipped.
• Lights dim more often, especially when multiple appliances are working at once.
• Outlets and switches around the home create a buzzing noise.
• Any power points, outlets or switches are warmer when touched, moreso when touching the plates.
• Burning odours are emanating from outlets and switches.
• Any item or appliance which is plugged into outlets are not working at their full potential or are lacking power. 

If these symptoms are common it is important to contact an emergency electrician as soon as possible. To prevent electrical shocks, appliances being ruined or electrical fires, overloaded circuit problems need to be addressed quickly.