This one needs a licensed pro
Likely cause: an AFCI or GFCI breaker detecting a fault
Your breaker is a protective type that trips on arcing or ground faults, not just overload. Note what its light shows and call a licensed electrician.
Why this happens
Siemens explains that its AFCI breakers show the cause of the last trip with an indicator light, and keep that memory for 30 days, and that the homeowner should not do the troubleshooting but can tell the electrician what the light showed. Siemens says a loose bulb in a socket or an overload can trip an AFCI. ESFI cites CPSC's estimate that 50% of home electrical fires could be prevented by proper AFCI protection, so a trip is worth taking seriously.
What to do right now
- Before you reset it, write down or photograph what the indicator light shows: its color and whether it blinks.
- Check that bulbs on that circuit are snug, with the switch off and the bulb cool.
- At the panel, open only the hinged door. Never remove the metal cover behind it; that cover is for electricians. Keep your hands dry and do not stand on a wet floor.
- Stand to the side of the panel and turn your face away. Push the handle firmly to OFF, then back to ON. Do this once.
- If it trips again, leave it off and call a licensed electrician. Do not try to clear the breaker's memory.
What to tell the licensed electrician
- That it is an AFCI, GFCI or dual-function breaker, with the brand and a photo of its front.
- What the indicator light showed before you reset it.
- What was running, plugged in or switched on when it tripped.
- Any new light fixtures, LED drivers or electronics added to that circuit.
Build the full list: what to tell the licensed electrician.
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