How to Reset a Tripped Breaker
A circuit breaker can trip due to an overloaded circuit, a short circuit, or a malfunctioning appliance. This can be a common occurrence if you plug too many high-wattage appliances into one outlet or circuit. It is also a common problem in homes with older electrical systems.
In this article, Mr. Electric provides you with a step-by-step guide on how to reset a tripped circuit breaker. We understand that tripped circuit breakers are a common electrical problem in homes and businesses. As a professional electrical company, we are committed to helping homeowners and businesses maintain optimal electrical safety. We are the experts you can rely on for circuit breaker repair and replacement. Read on to learn more about how to reset a tripped circuit breaker.
Steps to Reset Your Circuit Breaker
- Find the Electric Service Panel
The first step to resetting a tripped breaker is to locate your home's main electrical panel, often called a breaker box. This panel typically houses all the circuit breakers that control the power flow to different parts of your home. Common locations for the panel include the basement, garage, or a utility closet. Look for a metal box with switches or levers inside.
- Identify the Tripped Breaker
Once you've located the electrical panel, you need to identify the specific breaker that has tripped. A tripped breaker will often have a visible indicator, such as a small red flag or a switch that is in the "off" position. You can also try to identify the tripped breaker by checking which outlets or lights in your home are not working. These will likely be connected to the tripped circuit.
- Move the Circuit Breaker to the Full “Off” Position
Once you've identified the tripped breaker, carefully turn the handle all the way to the "off" position. This will completely cut off the power to that specific circuit.
- Move the Circuit Breaker Back To the On Position
After turning the breaker off, slowly and firmly flip the handle back to the "on" position. This should re-engage the circuit. If the breaker immediately trips again, there might be an underlying issue, such as a short circuit or an overloaded circuit. In this case, it's advisable to consult a licensed and insured electrician.
To confirm that the breaker has been successfully reset, plug an appliance into an outlet connected to that circuit. Turn the appliance on. If it works, the breaker has been reset correctly. If the appliance still doesn't work, it's possible that the issue lies with the appliance itself or another underlying electrical problem. In this case, it's best to seek help from an experienced electrician.
- If The Reset Doesn’t Work, Call a Professional Electrician
If resetting the breaker doesn't resolve the issue or if the breaker continues to trip, call a nearby electrical repair service for repairs. A persistent tripping breaker could indicate a more serious underlying problem, such as a short circuit, faulty wiring, or an overloaded circuit.
An electrician can diagnose the root cause of the problem and take the necessary steps to fix it safely. Attempting to fix electrical issues yourself can be dangerous, so it's best to leave it to the professionals.
Call Mr. Electric for circuit breaker replacement and all of your residential and commercial electrical needs.
