Before You Call: What to Check When Your Breaker Keeps Tripping

Before You Call: What to Check When Your Breaker Keeps Tripping

A breaker that keeps tripping can be annoying — especially when it seems to happen for no obvious reason.

While repeated trips shouldn’t be ignored, there are a few safe and simple things homeowners can check before assuming something serious is wrong. In many cases, the breaker is doing exactly what it was designed to do: protect your home.

Here’s what to look at before you call.

1. Unplug Everything on the Circuit

Start by removing the electrical load completely.

Unplug everything powered by that circuit, including:

• space heaters

• hair dryers

• air fryers

• coffee makers

• microwaves

• power strips

• extension cords

• chargers

Once everything is unplugged, reset the breaker.

If the breaker stays on with nothing connected, the issue is likely overload, not a wiring failure.

2. Plug Devices Back In One at a Time

After resetting the breaker, plug devices back in one at a time, waiting a minute or two between each.

If the breaker trips when a specific item is plugged in, you’ve probably found the cause.

Common problem devices include:

• portable heaters

• older appliances

• tools with worn cords

• devices drawing more power than the circuit can safely support

If one item consistently trips the breaker, stop using it and don’t force the breaker back on.

3. Pay Attention to When the Breaker Trips

The timing tells you a lot.

Ask yourself:

• Does it trip immediately?

• Does it trip after several minutes?

• Does it trip only when multiple devices are running?

• Does it trip more often in the evening or overnight?

Immediate trips often point to a short or faulty device.

Delayed trips usually indicate overload or heat buildup in the circuit.

Patterns matter.

4. Check for GFCI or AFCI Protection

Many newer breakers are designed to trip for reasons homeowners don’t expect.

If the breaker has a TEST button, it may be:

• GFCI-protected

• AFCI-protected

• or a combination of both

These breakers can trip due to:

• moisture

• damaged cords

• loose connections

• small arcing conditions

• older devices that don’t work well with modern protection

This doesn’t mean the breaker is bad. It means it detected something unsafe.

5. Know When to Stop and Call for Help

Do not keep resetting breakers if you notice:

• buzzing sounds

• warmth at the breaker

• burning smells

• flickering lights

• outlets that feel hot

• discoloration around switches or receptacles

• breakers that won’t stay on with nothing plugged in

These are signs of wiring or panel issues that should be checked professionally.

Why Breakers Trip More Often in Older California Homes

Many homes across Atascadero, Paso Robles, Templeton, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Maria were built when:

• gas appliances were common

• electrical demand was much lower

• fewer outlets shared each circuit

• EV charging didn’t exist

As homes add heaters, electronics, EV chargers, and modern appliances, circuits that once felt “fine” can become overstressed.

Repeated breaker trips are often the first warning sign.

When an Electrical Evaluation Makes Sense

Consider having your system evaluated if:

• the same breaker trips repeatedly

• multiple breakers are tripping

• tripping happens with nothing plugged in

• your panel has little or no remaining space

• your home was built before 2000

• you’re adding electric appliances or EV charging

An evaluation doesn’t automatically mean a panel upgrade. Sometimes it’s about better circuit distribution or identifying a single weak point.

Helping Central Coast Homes Stay Safe

Understanding why a breaker trips helps homeowners avoid unnecessary stress and catch real issues early.

If your home’s electrical system is showing signs of strain, a clear evaluation can help you decide what makes sense now and what can wait.