Vent, Valve & Volt
Breaker keeps tripping or won't reset

You can fix this

Likely cause: one faulty device

One appliance or device trips the breaker whenever it runs. Stop using that device.

Why this happens

Family Handyman and Bob Vila suggest unplugging everything, resetting, then adding devices back one at a time. If the same device trips a breaker on a different circuit too, the device has the fault, not your wiring. CPSC warns against using a device with a damaged cord.

How to fix it

  1. With the breaker reset and holding, plug devices back in one at a time, turning each on.
  2. When it trips, unplug the last device you added.
  3. Reset the breaker once and confirm everything else runs normally.
  4. Stop using that device. Check its cord and plug for damage, and have it repaired or replaced.

When to stop. If the breaker still trips with that device unplugged, call a licensed electrician.

If this does not fix it, tell the licensed electrician

  • Which device trips it, and whether it trips other circuits too.
  • Which breaker trips, and whether it has a TEST button or light.

Build the full list: what to tell the licensed electrician.

Start this troubleshooter over

References (every fact above comes from one of these pages)
  1. Family Handyman: How to fix a circuit breaker that keeps tripping
  2. Bob Vila: Circuit breaker tripping
  3. CPSC Publication 513: home electrical safety (PDF)

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