How to Tell If a Circuit Breaker Is Bad

Breaker melted : r/electrical

Is Your Circuit Breaker Failing? Call Pol-Sky Electrical for Immediate Help

If you experience frequent trips, evident damage, heat, or a burnt smell near your circuit breakers or electrical panel box, call our experienced electrician before the situation escalates.

Your home’s circuit breaker must function safely and properly. Unfortunately, circuit breakers can fail for multiple reasons. Common causes of circuit breaker failure include improper resetting, short circuits, or overloaded circuits. Detecting a faulty breaker early can save you from costly repairs, as fixing it early is often more affordable. Circuit breakers are designed to prevent fires and electrical faults, so it’s important to know how to tell if a circuit breaker is bad. Call your trusted electrical contractor to prevent potential accidents.

Look for the Signs to Avoid Fatal Electrical Accidents

Steps to Check a Bad Circuit Breaker

Here are some steps you can take to check if your circuit breaker is bad:

      1. Identify the circuit that the particular breaker is protecting.
      2. Open your electrical panel box.
      3. Find the label for the house circuit breaker that isn’t functioning properly.
      4. Ensure the label accurately matches the correct circuit.
      5. Turn off the breaker.
      6. Unplug all electrical devices connected to that circuit breaker.
      7. Reset the circuit breaker.
      8. If the breaker trips again, it means a short circuit or overload.
      9. Replace the broken circuit breaker.
      10. Use a multimeter to check the total voltage capacity of the circuit breaker. If the voltage reading is zero, it’s time to urgently replace the affected breaker.

Why Your Home Circuit Breaker Is So Important

A circuit breaker controls your home’s entire power supply, managing everything from appliances to light fixtures. Understanding how a breaker functions and how to change it is essential to avoid catastrophic accidents in your home. Your fail-safe systems must always work correctly; if a faulty breaker can’t perform its duty, it should be immediately replaced. Wondering, “Can a circuit breaker fail without tripping?” The answer is yes. If it doesn’t trip after being reset, it typically indicates an overloaded circuit. Moving plugs to other circuits and resetting the breaker might help. However, if the breaker trips again, it’s likely a bad breaker or a short circuit.

Common Bad Circuit Breaker Symptoms

Look out for these symptoms of a bad circuit breaker. If you experience any of them, it’s time to contact an experienced electrician to replace or fix the faulty breaker.

Doesn’t Stay in “Reset”

If your breaker is short-circuiting, you’ll need a professional electrician to check your electrical panel and house circuit breaker. It’s important for your electrician to thoroughly inspect the unit and wiring to avoid serious electrical issues. Experienced professionals can often tell if a breaker is bad just by looking at the signs.

Smell

If you notice a burning smell coming from your circuit breakers, it indicates a problem. Shut off the main power to the house immediately and call an electrician for emergency service. A burnt smell is a clear sign that your breaker needs attention to avoid the risk of fire.

Hot Temperature

If your electrical panel box or house circuit breaker is hot to the touch, call a professional electrician right away. Turn off the power supply to your house. If your dimmer switch is also hot, check the wattage to ensure it isn’t overloaded. Overloaded circuits generate heat, which is one of the symptoms of a bad breaker.

Visibly Damaged

Evident marks near appliances, outlets, or the electrical box indicate that a wire may have melted, creating a fire risk. If you notice this, shut off the power to your house immediately and call your electrician. They can use thermal imaging or infrared cameras to pinpoint the source of the heat and prevent further damage.

Frequent Trips

If your breaker trips frequently, it may be a sign of a bad circuit breaker. It could also indicate bad circuitry. Contact your electrician to diagnose the exact problem and ensure your safety.

Long-Time Use

Older circuit breakers are more prone to faults and need to be replaced. If your circuit breakers or your house are very old, consider upgrading them. An experienced electrician can diagnose the age and condition of your circuit breakers and replace them to avoid electrical hazards.

Electricity Guide: What's the Role of Your Circuit Breaker? — Zimmerman Electric Company

Hire a Professional Electrician

If you’re dealing with a bad circuit breaker, call an experienced electrician from Pol-Sky Electrical. We’ll replace your faulty circuit breaker and ensure that your home is safe and secure. Pol-Sky Electrical provides expert electrical services in the following areas:

Call us today for emergency services or to schedule a consultation.

Guide to Upgrading your Homes Electrical Panel

How & When to Upgrade a Residential Electrical Panel

Is It Time to Upgrade Your Electrical Panel? Avoid Hazards with a Professional Upgrade

Overloaded circuits can lead to fatal consequences. Avoid potential electrical hazards and upgrade your panel to meet the actual power demand of your home. Keep an eye out for these common signs that may indicate it’s time for an upgrade.

Have you recently thought about upgrading your electrical panel? Are you aware of the signs that indicate you may need one? Many homeowners neglect the importance of an electrical panel upgrade, only to face bigger costs down the line. Don’t make the same mistake! Make sure your panel is operating efficiently. If you encounter any electrical issues, turn to Pol-Sky Electrical, your trusted electrical contractor.

Should I Upgrade My Electrical Panel? Here’s Your Answer

The electrical panel is connected to the entire electrical system in your home, and a faulty panel can cause problems throughout your house. You certainly wouldn’t want to deal with electrical issues during a special event or gathering. So, watch out for these signs that it’s time for an electrical panel upgrade.

Signs You May Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade

1. Burning Smell or Sparks

Occasional sparks are generally not a concern, but if you notice frequent sparks or a burning smell, it may indicate a problem with your electrical panel. Faulty circuits or wiring often cause these issues. If you notice discolored or warm outlets, it’s time to talk to an electrician.

2. Lights That Dim or Flicker When You Turn on Other Appliances

If your electrical panel cannot properly handle the electrical load of your home, you may experience flickering or dimming lights when you turn on appliances. This happens because of an overloaded circuit trying to supply power to other parts of the house. Upgrading your electrical panel will fix these overloaded circuits.

3. Electrical Shocks

Improperly installed or defective wiring can cause mild electrical shocks when you touch switches or outlets. This could indicate an electrical leakage, posing a safety risk. Upgrading your electrical panel ensures your system operates safely.

4. Breakers That Trip Frequently

If your circuit breakers are tripping frequently, your electrical panel is likely not able to handle the power load. This may also be accompanied by a cracking sound from the breaker panel, which indicates it’s time for an upgrade. The circuit breakers are designed to protect your home from overload, and an upgraded panel will resolve these issues.

5. Your Electrical Panel Is Very Old

The performance of your electrical panel can deteriorate over time. In older homes, faulty wiring can create more safety risks. If your panel is over 25 years old, it’s likely time for an upgrade. Even if it seems to be functioning fine, it’s a good idea to schedule an electrical inspection.

Electrical Panel Upgrades in Portsmouth NH | MCP HVAC

Types of Electrical Panel Upgrades and Replacements

The cost of upgrading or replacing your electrical panel depends on the changes required, such as increasing amperage, adding more circuits, or switching from a fuse box.

Upgrading to a Higher Amp

To meet higher energy demands, you may need to upgrade to a larger electrical panel. A standard 200-amp electrical panel box should be sufficient for most homes. If you also need a meter box upgrade, the cost will vary, but it provides more accurate readings and added safety.

Secondary Electrical Panel

If you’re adding new rooms or circuits to your home, you may need to install a secondary electrical panel. The cost may increase if the power supply line needs to be upgraded, or if additional work is required for a fuse box replacement. Circuit breakers offer more targeted control over power distribution and safety.

Can a Homeowner Replace an Electrical Panel?

While it’s technically possible for a homeowner to replace their electrical panel, it’s highly recommended to hire a professional electrician. Handling electrical work requires expertise to ensure safety and efficiency.

Hire a Professional to Replace Your Electrical Panel

Pol-Sky Electrical provides complete electrical panel upgrades and replacements across the following areas:

Contact us today to schedule an electrical inspection and upgrade your panel with a licensed expert.

Is Your Electrical Wiring Outdated?

All About Electrical Wiring Types, Sizes, Installation

Is Your Home’s Electrical Wiring Outdated? Here’s What You Need to Know

Pol-Sky Electrical is a locally owned and operated electrical company, fully licensed to handle all commercial and residential electrical needs, including complete electrical wiring replacement.

Many homeowners only realize their electrical system needs serious attention when they face major issues like power outages, blown fuses, or malfunctioning appliances. The root cause of these problems is often outdated electrical wiring. Many homes in the U.S. still rely on wiring systems that are 30, 40, or even 50 years old. Over time, families add more modern appliances and smart devices, but fail to upgrade their home’s electrical infrastructure.

This is why old wiring often leads to frequent power interruptions, overheating, or, in the worst cases, electrical fires. Updating your home’s electrical wiring isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety.

When Should You Replace Your Home’s Electrical Wiring?

You’ll find online that electrical wiring is typically expected to last between 50 and 70 years, with copper wiring lasting up to 100 years. However, this can be misleading. While the core of the wiring may last, the protective coating can degrade much faster. Older homes may still have wiring with textile sheathing, which is more vulnerable to wear and tear and can catch fire more easily.

In addition, older wiring systems were designed for far fewer electrical devices. Homes back then only had a TV, washing machine, and refrigerator, but today, each family member may have multiple devices, including laptops, smartphones, smart TVs, and more. To avoid overloading your system, it’s recommended to upgrade the electrical wiring in your home every 30 years.

Clear Signs You Need to Upgrade Your Wiring

If you’ve noticed any of the following signs in your home, it’s time to consider upgrading your electrical wiring:

1. Flickering Lights

If your lights flicker or dim, especially when large appliances like air conditioners or washing machines are turned on, this could be a sign that your system is overloaded. Overloaded wiring can lead to further issues, like burnt wires or electrical panel failures.

2. Strange Noises

Crackling or popping sounds coming from outlets, switches, or appliances should never be ignored. These noises often indicate that the wiring is faulty and could be a precursor to an electrical fire. If you hear these sounds, turn off your power immediately and call a licensed electrician.

3. Burning Smells or Smoke

If you detect a burning smell or see smoke coming from outlets or appliances, it’s a sign that the wiring has overheated. This is extremely dangerous and can lead to an electrical fire. Turn off the power and contact a professional immediately.

4. Blown Fuses

If you’re constantly replacing blown fuses, it’s a clear indication that your wiring is insufficient to handle modern power demands. Even though today’s appliances are energy-efficient, older wiring systems often can’t meet the higher electrical load.

5. Visible Damage to Wiring

If you notice any exposed or frayed wiring, it’s time to call an electrician. While replacing individual damaged wires can solve small issues, it’s a good idea to consider a full wiring upgrade for long-term safety.

DIY Electrical Wiring and Switching Tips - Coyne College

Why You Should Hire a Licensed Electrician

When it comes to electrical work, always hire a licensed professional. Electrical systems are dangerous and should only be worked on by experts who have the proper training. Licensed electricians are qualified to ensure the work is done safely and up to code, offering you peace of mind and a warranty for their work.

Upgrade Your Electrical Wiring with Pol-Sky Electrical

Pol-Sky Electrical is a fully licensed electrical contractor with over 30 years of experience. As a family-owned business, we prioritize safety and quality in all our electrical work. Whether you need to replace old wiring or upgrade your entire system, we’re here to help.

Don’t wait until your old wiring causes serious issues—call Pol-Sky Electrical now at (727) 483-0273 for a full inspection and electrical updates.

Here Are the Reasons Why You Experience Flickering Lights in House

Flickering Lights: Should I Worry?

Is Your House’s Lighting Flickering? Here’s What Could Be Causing It

Is your house’s lighting flickering unexpectedly? Don’t panic—this is a common problem, and it doesn’t necessarily mean something paranormal is going on. In this post, we’ll explain the most common reasons for flickering lights and what you can do about it.

You’ve probably experienced it before: You’re sitting in a room, and all of a sudden, the lights start flickering. It can be unsettling, with the lights creaking and groaning as if they’re unsure what to do next. You trust you’ve hired the right professionals for electrical services, but as you glance around your neighborhood, you notice that no one else seems to be facing this issue.

Then, the thought crosses your mind: Is my house haunted?

Before jumping to conclusions, know that flickering lights are a normal issue. The cause is often much simpler than ghostly activity. Here are the most common reasons why your lights might flicker and how to address them:

1. Loose Light Bulb

One of the simplest explanations for flickering lights is a loose light bulb. If a bulb isn’t securely screwed into its socket, it can vibrate or move, causing it to flicker. This can also happen if the bulb has been unscrewed and then reinstalled improperly.

2. Type of Bulb

Certain types of bulbs are more prone to flickering. Incandescent bulbs, halogen lamps, and fluorescent tubes often flicker because of the tungsten filaments inside, which heat up when exposed to humidity. If you notice flickering lights in just one room, the issue could be with the type of bulb. The solution? Replace the bulb with one that is less prone to flickering.

3. Dimmer Switch Issues

Dimmer switches are another common cause of flickering lights. When a dimmer switch malfunctions, it can cause lights to flicker or even dim unexpectedly. If replacing the bulb doesn’t fix the issue, make sure the bulb is compatible with your dimmer switch.

4. Circuit Overload

Circuit overloads happen when too much current flows through the circuit. This can occur if too many outlets are used in one area or if there are too few outlets in other areas, leading to potential fire hazards and flickering lights. This issue requires immediate attention from a professional to avoid damage or danger.

5. Voltage Fluctuations

Changes in voltage can cause lights to flicker. Voltage fluctuations occur when the current flowing through a circuit is inconsistent, leading to lights turning on and off or not reaching their normal brightness. This is often caused by a sudden change in the voltage supply.

6. Loose Wiring Connections

Loose wiring connections can cause flickering lights as well. When electrical wires are improperly connected or outdated, they can cause resistance in the system, resulting in inconsistent current flow. This issue could be a sign of a larger electrical problem and requires professional inspection and repair.

Why Are There Flickering Lights in My Home? - Happy Hiller

Turn to Pol-Sky Electrical for Professional Help

If you’re dealing with flickering lights and aren’t sure how to fix them, it’s time to call in the experts. Pol-Sky Electrical offers comprehensive electrical inspection services to identify the cause of your flickering lights and fix the issue. Whether it’s a loose connection, circuit overload, or any other issue, we’ll provide a solution to keep your home safe and your lights flicker-free.

Don’t let flickering lights cause you stress—contact Pol-Sky Electrical today and let us handle the problem. Our team of experienced electricians is ready to ensure your home’s electrical system is working properly.

How Do Surge Protectors Work?

The 3 Best Surge Protectors of 2024 | Reviews by Wirecutter

Protect Your Home from Power Surges with Pol-Sky Electrical

Power surges can cause serious damage to your electrical appliances by overheating wires. One effective way to protect your home and its electronics is by installing a surge protector. In this post, we’ll explain everything you need to know about surge protection and how Pol-Sky Electrical can help you safeguard your home.

What Are Power Surges and How Do They Affect Your Appliances?

Power surges are common throughout the U.S. and can be detrimental to electrical appliances. While the standard U.S. voltage is 120V, surges can cause the voltage to spike as high as 170 volts or more. This is why surge protection is an essential part of home ownership. Pol-Sky Electrical offers expert services to ensure your home is properly protected from power surges.

A surge protector is designed to prevent damage by redirecting excess voltage safely. These devices are crucial in protecting your electronics from the dangers of power spikes, which can be caused by faulty wiring, high-powered devices, or even malfunctioning equipment. Surge protectors help reduce the risk of electrical fires by diverting excess voltage to the ground.

Square D 120V/240V Panel Mounted Whole House Surge Protector - Stone's Home Centers

What is a Surge Protector?

A surge protector is an electrical device that shields your appliances from power surges by blocking or diverting spikes in voltage. Though many associate surge protectors with lightning strikes, they are equally effective at preventing damage from other sources of electrical surges.

You may also hear surge protectors referred to as “surge suppressors.” These terms are interchangeable, so there’s no need to be confused.

How Does a Surge Protector Work?

To understand how a surge protector works, it’s important to first understand power surges. A power surge happens when the voltage exceeds 170V, causing overheating and potential damage to electrical components. While lightning strikes are a common cause of power surges, issues like bad wiring or overused appliances can also contribute.

When a surge occurs, a surge protector directs the excess electricity to the ground wire, preventing it from reaching your appliances. This diversion helps protect your valuable equipment from damage.

The Difference Between Surges and Sparks

It’s important to note that power surges are different from sparks. A surge can last for several nanoseconds and may eventually lead to a spark, which could cause a fire or further damage. A surge protector, however, can safeguard against both surges and sparks, providing an extra layer of protection for your home.

What Appliances Benefit from Surge Protection?

Surge protectors are used to prevent damage to a variety of household appliances. Here’s how surge protection can help:

      • Computers: Protect your CPU, screen, and other components from power surges that could cause expensive repairs.
      • Television: TVs are highly susceptible to power surges, and surge protectors are essential in preserving their functionality.
      • Microwaves: Given their high power consumption, microwaves are prone to power surges.
      • Video Game Systems: Surge protectors shield your gaming equipment, preventing damage that could lead to costly repairs.
      • High-end Audio Equipment: Surge protectors are vital in protecting sensitive audio equipment from the damaging effects of power surges.

How Long Does a Surge Protector Last?

Surge protectors aren’t designed to last forever. Over time, they can lose their effectiveness, especially if they experience frequent surges. On average, a surge protector will last between three to five years, but it’s recommended to replace them every two years for optimal protection.

Why Choose Pol-Sky Electrical for Surge Protection?

Now that you know how surge protectors work and the importance of protecting your home, it’s time to take action. Pol-Sky Electrical specializes in installing high-quality surge protection systems that safeguard your home from electrical damage.

Surge protection is not a one-size-fits-all solution, so it’s essential to work with professionals who understand your unique needs. Contact Pol-Sky Electrical today for expert surge protection installation and ensure that your home is safe from power surges.

How to Prevent a Short in Wiring

What is a Short Circuit and What Causes One? | Lickety-Split

Short Circuit in Your Home? Learn How to Prevent Dangerous Wiring Issues

A short circuit can pose serious risks, from electrical shocks to potential fires. Understanding the causes and prevention methods is crucial to keeping your home safe. Read on to learn everything you need to know about avoiding short circuits with expert advice from Pol-Sky Electrical.

Short circuits occur when unintended contact between electrical wires creates an abnormally high current flow. This can damage property, harm loved ones, and even start fires. It’s always best to trust professionals for repairs, but knowing how to prevent and address these issues can help you stay safe and informed.

In this guide, we’ll explain what short circuits are, what causes them, and how to prevent electrical shorts in your home.


What Is a Short Circuit?

A short circuit occurs when electrical current flows through an unintended low-resistance path, bypassing its normal route. This sudden surge of electricity can cause sparks, overheating, and other hazards.

In homes, short circuits often result from damaged wiring, broken insulation, or aged components. Short circuits not only damage devices but can also cause dangerous shocks or fires.


Common Causes of Short Circuits

Here are some key reasons why short circuits happen:

      • Faulty Insulation: Over time, insulation on wires can degrade, exposing live wires to each other and causing a short.
      • Loose Connections: Poorly connected wires or outlets can cause electrical arcs, leading to shorts.
      • Household Pests: Rodents like mice or rats can chew through insulation, exposing wires and increasing the risk of a short circuit.
      • Damaged Appliances: Worn or malfunctioning electrical devices often have internal issues that can lead to shorts.

Knowing these causes helps identify potential risks and take proactive steps to prevent a short circuit.


How to Prevent Short Circuits

Before you tackle a short circuit, prevention is key. Follow these tips to safeguard your home:

      1. Inspect Electrical Outlets: Regularly check outlets for loose connections or wiring issues.
      2. Check Appliances: Inspect cords and connections for damage or fraying before use.
      3. Limit Usage During Storms: Lightning can cause power surges that may damage wiring or appliances.
      4. Perform Regular Maintenance: Ensure circuit breakers and wiring are functioning properly to prevent overloads or shorts.
      5. Schedule Annual Inspections: Hire professionals like Pol-Sky Electrical for a thorough yearly check-up of your home’s electrical system.

What to Do If a Short Circuit Occurs

If you suspect a short circuit, follow these steps to stay safe:

      • Turn Off Power: Locate the circuit breaker and switch off the affected area immediately.
      • Inspect the Area: Look for signs of damage like burnt wires, damaged outlets, or frayed cords.
      • Call a Professional: Don’t risk DIY fixes—contact Pol-Sky Electrical to safely resolve the issue.

Why Trust Pol-Sky Electrical?

At Pol-Sky Electrical, we understand the dangers of short circuits and the importance of reliable electrical services. With decades of experience, our team is dedicated to providing top-notch solutions to keep your home and family safe.

Why choose us?

      • Over 30 years of combined experience
      • 15% discount for first-time customers and veterans
      • Professional, detail-oriented service

Don’t wait for an electrical problem to escalate. Contact Pol-Sky Electrical today at (727) 483-0273 or visit our website to schedule an inspection or service.

Pol-Sky Electrical – Keeping Your Home Safe and Powered!

Why Won’t My GFCI Outlet Reset?

GFCI Outlet Not Resetting? Causes and Expert Solutions

A GFCI outlet that won’t reset can be frustrating and even hazardous. These outlets are designed to protect against electrical shock by quickly cutting off power if they detect an imbalance in the current. When a GFCI outlet fails to reset, it could be due to several reasons such as a tripped circuit, faulty wiring, or a defective outlet.

At Pol-Sky Electrical, we’ve seen it all. With over 30 years of experience, we provide effective troubleshooting and solutions to ensure your electrical system is safe and reliable.


Common Reasons a GFCI Outlet Won’t Reset

1. Loose Connections or Damaged Parts

Loose connections or wear and tear can disrupt the electrical current. This can cause power fluctuations, surges, or even render the outlet non-functional.
Solution: Inspect and tighten loose connections or replace damaged components to restore functionality.

2. No Power to the Outlet

One of the first things to check when your GFCI isn’t resetting is whether the outlet has power. Plug a device into the outlet to confirm. If there’s no power, a tripped breaker or blown fuse might be the issue.
Solution: Reset the breaker or replace the fuse to restore power.

3. Faulty GFCI Outlet

Over time, GFCI outlets can fail due to wear, power surges, or manufacturing defects. A defective outlet will often not reset, making replacement necessary.
Solution: Replace the faulty outlet and ensure it’s installed correctly by a professional electrician.

4. Tripped Circuit Breaker

A ground fault or electrical current leakage can trip the breaker, preventing the GFCI outlet from functioning.
Solution: Identify and address the root cause, such as damaged wiring or overloaded circuits, before resetting the breaker.

5. Improper Installation of a New GFCI Outlet

If your recently installed outlet isn’t working, it could indicate improper installation or a defective outlet.
Solution: Double-check the wiring and ensure all connections are secure. If the issue persists, consult an expert.


Troubleshooting Tips for a Non-Resetting GFCI Outlet

Follow these steps to resolve GFCI issues:

      1. Check Other Outlets: Ensure other outlets and lights in your home have power.
      2. Test and Reset Buttons: Press the test button to see if the reset button pops out, then push the reset button. If it doesn’t stay in, the outlet may need replacing.
      3. Inspect for Loose Wires: Check for open or damaged wires and reconnect or replace them as necessary.
      4. Reinstall the Connector: If other fixes fail, turn off the power, remove the outlet, and reinstall it correctly.

What's a GFCI Outlet and What Does It Do?

What Happens If a GFCI Won’t Reset?

When a GFCI outlet doesn’t reset, it indicates a problem in your electrical system. This could be due to:

      • A tripped circuit or fuse
      • A faulty connection
      • A malfunctioning outlet

Ignoring the issue can compromise your safety, as the GFCI won’t provide the necessary protection against electrical hazards.


Why Choose Pol-Sky Electrical?

At Pol-Sky Electrical, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing electrical issues, including GFCI outlets that won’t reset. Here’s why homeowners trust us:

      • Over 30 Years of Expertise: Serving clients with reliable, high-quality electrical services.
      • Cost-Effective Solutions: We offer a 15% discount for first-time customers and veterans.
      • Family-Owned Values: Integrity, attention to detail, and commitment to safety are at the core of everything we do.

Don’t let a non-working GFCI outlet put your home at risk. Contact Pol-Sky Electrical today for professional, tailored solutions!

What to Do If Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping?

Common Causes of a Tripped Circuit Breaker

1. Circuit Overload

One of the most common reasons a circuit breaker trips is an overload. This occurs when too many devices draw more power than the circuit can handle. The excess power generates heat, causing the breaker to trip as a safety precaution.
Solution: Redistribute your devices across different circuits to prevent overloading.

2. Short Circuit

Short circuits happen when a hot wire touches a neutral wire, allowing a sudden surge of electricity to flow through the circuit. This can cause damage to appliances and poses a fire risk.
Solution: Have a professional inspect your wiring and fix any short circuits immediately.

3. Ground Fault Surges

A ground fault surge occurs when a hot wire comes into contact with a ground wire, often made of copper. This situation allows excess electricity to flow, which can also trip your breaker.
Solution: Address ground fault surges by checking your wiring or consulting an electrician.

4. Defective Circuit Breaker

Sometimes, the breaker itself is faulty due to wear and tear or poor maintenance. A defective breaker may trip frequently or fail to protect your home effectively.
Solution: Replace the breaker if it shows signs of damage, such as a burnt smell or inconsistent performance.

5. Arc Fault

An arc fault happens when corroded or loose wires make intermittent contact, creating a spark. This can lead to overheating or, in severe cases, fires.
Solution: Listen for hissing or buzzing sounds from outlets and have an electrician inspect for arc faults.


What to Do If Your Breaker Keeps Tripping

Before calling a professional, you can perform a few basic checks:

      • Unplug all appliances and turn off their power.
      • Reset the circuit breaker by removing the fuse and reinserting it.
      • Inspect the circuit for any signs of damage or overloading.
      • Gradually turn devices back on to isolate the cause.

If these steps don’t resolve the issue, seek help from a certified electrician to ensure safety.


Fixing a Tripped Breaker

1. Check for Overloading

Examine all sockets and appliances. Unplug devices you aren’t using and look for loose or faulty connections.

2. Inspect for Short Circuits

If you notice damaged wires or worn insulation, have them replaced immediately to avoid further complications.

3. Replace Faulty Connections

Using a multimeter, test for continuity in each connection. Replace damaged components securely to prevent further trips.

4. Redistribute Power Load

Reorganize the devices connected to individual circuits to prevent overloading.


Trust Pol-Sky Electrical for Circuit Breaker Solutions

When it comes to frequent breaker trips, safety should always be the priority. If you’re unsure about diagnosing or fixing the issue, Pol-Sky Electrical is here to help. Our certified electricians offer over 30 years of experience and can ensure your home’s electrical system is in optimal condition.

We provide a 15% discount to first-time customers and veterans. Count on us for cost-effective, reliable solutions tailored to your needs. Contact Pol-Sky Electrical today for an inspection and troubleshooting assistance!