Cranston and Providence: Rhode Island’s Charming Town

Breaker Keeps Tripping

Breaker keeps tripping – this is a problem that homeowners dread the most. It is nerve-wracking and, at times, can be dangerous. When a breaker trips, it cuts off the flow of electricity to a particular area of the house, leaving you with no power or, at times, damaged appliances. Where electricity is a necessity for almost all our daily tasks, a tripping breaker can be a major inconvenience.

If you are a homeowner in Cranston, Providence, and are facing issues with a breaker that keeps tripping, do not panic just yet. B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, has been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. With our expertise and experience in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation, we can solve any breaker-related issue in no time.

As a homeowner, it is crucial to understand the basics of how your electrical system works and how to troubleshoot some common issues. In this article, we will explore the common causes of a tripping breaker and some simple steps you can take to fix it. Trust us, understanding these basics can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.

What is a breaker and why does it trip?

A breaker, also known as a circuit breaker, is a safety device that controls the flow of electricity to various areas of your house. It can be found in the electrical panel, also known as the circuit breaker box, which is usually located in the basement or garage. When the flow of electricity exceeds the designated limit for a specific area, the breaker trips, cutting off the power supply to that particular area. This is to prevent overheating or electrical fires.

Common causes of a tripping breaker:

1. Overloaded circuit

An overloaded circuit is one of the most common reasons for a tripping breaker. This occurs when there are too many high-powered electrical devices plugged into a single circuit. The breaker trips to prevent the circuit from overheating and causing potential electrical hazards.

2. Faulty wiring

Old or faulty wiring can also lead to a tripping breaker. Over time, wiring can become worn out, corroded, or damaged, which can cause the breaker to trip. It is crucial to get your electrical wiring inspected regularly to ensure its safety and efficiency.

3. Short circuit

A short circuit is a severe electrical issue that occurs when a hot wire comes into contact with a neutral wire. This results in a sudden surge of electricity, which can cause the breaker to trip. Short circuits can also lead to electrical fires if not addressed promptly.

4. Ground fault

Similar to a short circuit, a ground fault occurs when a hot wire touches a ground wire or metal box. This results in an uncontrollable flow of electricity, causing the breaker to trip. Ground faults can also pose a serious safety hazard and should be addressed immediately.

5. Malfunctioning or damaged appliances

Appliances that are old, worn out, or damaged can also cause a circuit to overload, leading to a tripping breaker. If you notice that a particular appliance is tripping the breaker every time it is used, it might be time for a repair or a replacement.

What to do if your breaker keeps tripping?

If you are facing a tripping breaker, here are some simple steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue before calling in a professional:

1. Unplug appliances

As mentioned earlier, overloaded circuits can lead to tripping breakers. If you notice that a specific appliance is causing the breaker to trip, try unplugging it and see if that solves the problem.

2. Check for water leakage

Water and electricity do not mix well. If your breaker is located in a damp or moist area, check for any water leakage that might be causing a short circuit.

3. Reset the breaker

If none of the above solutions work, try resetting the breaker. Locate the tripped breaker and flip it back to the “on” position. If the breaker trips again, it could be a sign of a more severe electrical issue.

It is crucial to remember that if the breaker trips repeatedly, do not keep resetting it. This can cause damage to your electrical system and is a potential safety hazard. In such cases, it is best to call a licensed electrician for assistance.

Why choose B&K Electric?

At B&K Electric, we pride ourselves on our commitment to customer service and our community. We understand that electrical issues can be stressful and overwhelming. That’s why we strive to provide prompt and efficient service to ensure your peace of mind.

Our team of licensed electricians has been serving the Warwick area and greater Providence for over seventeen years, earning a reputation for our quality work and attention to detail. As a family-owned business, we treat every customer like our own. Customer satisfaction is our top priority, and we are dedicated to providing the best services at competitive prices.

Conclusion:

A tripping breaker can be a daunting issue for any homeowner. It can disrupt your daily routine and, at times, lead to dangerous electrical hazards. As a homeowner, it is vital to understand the basics of your electrical system and knowing when to call a licensed electrician for help. At B&K Electric, we specialize in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation, making us your go-to electrician for your home or business in the Warwick area and greater Providence. Don’t let a tripping breaker inconvenience you any longer. Contact B&K Electric today for all your electrical needs.

Topics:

Tripping breaker,

electrical issues,

troubleshooting breaker