A tripping breaker is annoying, but it is also a safety device doing exactly what it was built to do: shutting off power before wiring overheats. The real question is why it is tripping. Here are the most common causes we see in Tucson homes.
1. Too much on one circuit
This is the most common cause. A space heater, microwave, hair dryer or window AC unit can pull most of a circuit’s capacity on its own. Add a second appliance and the breaker trips. If it only happens when certain things run at the same time, an overloaded circuit is the likely culprit. The fix might be moving an appliance, or adding a dedicated circuit.
2. Summer AC load
Tucson summers push air conditioners hard for months. An aging compressor can draw more current as it wears out, and a panel that was sized decades ago may be working near its limit. If breakers trip or lights dim when the AC kicks on, it is worth having the system and the panel checked.
3. A short circuit or ground fault
If a breaker trips instantly, even with nothing plugged in, there may be a short or a ground fault somewhere on the circuit. Damaged cords, a failing appliance, loose connections or water in an outdoor outlet can all cause it. Do not keep resetting it. A breaker that will not stay on is a sign something needs to be found and fixed.
4. A worn out breaker or panel
Breakers do wear out, and some older panels, including certain Federal Pacific and Zinsco models, have a history of problems. If your panel is old, warm, buzzing or shows scorch marks, have it looked at soon.
When to call an electrician
- The breaker trips right away or will not reset
- You smell burning or see scorch marks at an outlet or the panel
- Outlets or switches feel warm
- It keeps happening and you cannot find a pattern
Light The Way Electrical tracks down the real cause and fixes it right. Learn more about our electrical repair and troubleshooting, or call or text 520-222-7993.