Why Your Breaker Keeps Tripping
The three common causes of a tripping breaker and what to do about each.
Short answer
A breaker trips for one of three reasons: overload (too much load on the circuit), short circuit (hot and neutral touching), or ground fault (hot touching ground). Each requires a different response.
Three causes
Overload — reduce load or add a circuit. Short — find and fix. Ground fault — replace the GFCI or address the wiring issue.
FAQ
Is a tripping breaker dangerous?
It's a sign of a problem. Don't keep resetting without identifying the cause.
Technical review
Technically reviewed by Tommy Anderson
Texas Master Electrician · ME #784684
Tommy Anderson is the Master Electrician behind Civitas Electrical LLC (TECL #41490), with more than 14 years of electrical field experience and over 7 years in supervisory and electrical-management roles across residential, commercial and industrial work.
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