You can fix this
Likely cause: too much load on one circuit
The circuit is being asked for more current than it is rated for. Spread heavy appliances across different circuits.
Why this happens
Bob Vila lists overload first among the reasons a breaker trips. Family Handyman's example: a 1,200-watt microwave draws about 10 amps and a 1,700-watt air fryer about 14, so running both pulls about 24 amps on a 20-amp kitchen circuit. The breaker is doing its job by tripping.
How to fix it
- Turn off or unplug the heavy appliances on that circuit.
- 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.
- Move one of the heavy appliances to an outlet on a different breaker, or stop running them at the same time.
- Do not use extension cords or power strips to get around the problem. If you run out of circuits for the appliances you need, an electrician can add capacity.
When to stop. If it trips even when only one appliance is running, or the breaker feels hot, call a licensed electrician.
If this does not fix it, tell the licensed electrician
- Which appliances were running when it tripped, with their wattage from the label if you can see it.
- Which breaker trips and what area it feeds.
- How often it happens and whether it started after you added an appliance.
Build the full list: what to tell the licensed electrician.
Start this troubleshooter over
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