5 Key Reasons Why Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping

Author: Andrew, Founder and Director, Luno Electrical. Registered Master Electrician (no: 25989). Tesla Certified Installer.

Introduction

Imagine this: You’re gearing up for the season finale of your favorite show, and just as it starts, everything goes dark. The culprit? A tripped circuit breaker. Again! At Luno Electrical, we understand the inconvenience and potential hazards of a frequently tripping breaker. Let’s explore why this happens and how to fix it.

1. Overloaded Circuits: Too Much for Too Little

Like trying to fit into jeans from 10 years ago, an overloaded circuit is stretched beyond its limit. When too many devices hog one circuit, it overheats and trips. The solution? Spread out your electrical devices. If you’re juggling appliances more than a circus clown, consider installing additional circuits or upgrading your electrical panel. Check out our services for Switchboard Upgrades & Repair.

2. Short Circuits: The Electrical Plot Twist

A short circuit is like the dramatic turn in a soap opera – unexpected and full of sparks. If you smell burning or see discoloration around outlets, it’s time to call in the pros. Luno Electricals team is like the superheroes of the electrical world, ready to swoop in and save the day.

3. Faulty Wiring or Appliances: The Hidden Villains

Many years ago some electricians used cabling that was covered in black rubber (commonly called VIR cabling). This type of cabling is extremely dangerous and must be removed as soon as possible.  Old wiring or faulty appliances are the ninjas of electrical issues – silent but dangerous. Flickering lights can be a sign to call in the cavalry, and that’s us! We’re experts in Appliance Installation & Repair.

5 Main Reasons Why Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping. Professional Electrician

4. Earth Leakage Fault: Water + Electricity = Trouble

Residual Current Device (RCDs) are there to detect any imbalance in an electrical circuit. If even the slightest bit of moisture is detected by the RCD it will trip the circuit before it becomes a dangerous issue. If your breakers are diving more than an Olympic swimmer as a result of water, immediately call us as this needs to be fixed asap.

5. Circuit Breaker Malfunctions: It’s Not You, It’s the Breaker

Sometimes the breaker itself is the weary actor in this drama. Frequent tripping without cause? Your breaker might just need a holiday. It’s a sign to get a professional evaluation, and yes, we at Luno Electrical can be your electrical therapists.

Conclusion

From overloaded circuits, dramatic short circuits, sneaky wiring issues, to damp-situations and tired old breakers, Luno Electrical is your go-to team for solving these mysteries. With our expertise, we’ll ensure your electrical system is as reliable as a kangaroo’s hop. Need help? Hop over to our Contact Us page.

Dad Joke to Spark Some Fun

Why was the electrician calm during a blackout? Because he knew how to conduct himself!

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Circuit Breakers and Electrical Safety FAQs

Circuit breakers usually trip due to overloaded circuits, short circuits, earth faults, faulty appliances or wiring, and sometimes due to the breaker itself being old or damaged.

First, disconnect any recently added appliances, then reset the breaker. If it trips again or frequently, contact a licensed electrician like Luno Electrical for a professional assessment.

Yes, it's generally safe to reset a tripped breaker. However, if it keeps tripping or you notice signs of damage, it's best to consult a professional.

Avoid overloading circuits, ensure proper appliance installation, use RCDs, and consider having your electrical system inspected and upgraded by professionals like those at Luno Electrical.

A RCD is a device that protects against electric shock from faults in electrical appliances or wiring. It's especially important in areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens.

While it can be a sign of underlying electrical problems, it's not always an emergency. However, if accompanied by a burning smell, sparks, or visible damage, it should be treated as an emergency and addressed immediately by a professional.

Happy Customers

Andrew and the team installed a Tesla wall charger at my home. They did an outstanding job and went over and above to make sure everything was done professionally and worked properly. Before finding Luno I spoke to many electricians and they often hadn’t done an electric car home charger installation before and didn’t seem to know what was involved. Andrew and the team at Luno quickly put me at ease because it was clear they knew how to install electric car charging. Would highly recommend.
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