Top 3 Reasons Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping

March 6, 2025

If your circuit breaker keeps tripping, you’re probably dealing with one of a few common electrical issues. While it can be frustrating, it’s important to understand that your breaker is tripping for a reason—it’s doing its job to keep you safe. Let’s take a look at the top three culprits behind frequent circuit breaker trips and what you can do about them.

1. Short Circuits

A short circuit happens when electricity takes an unintended shortcut, flowing through a path with very little resistance. The result? Dangerous currents that can spark, cause electrical shocks, or even start fires.

What causes a short circuit? Often, it’s things like frayed wires, loose connections, or faulty appliances. For example, if the wiring in your toaster is frayed, it can create a short that trips the breaker. To avoid this, always check your appliances for visible wear and tear, and ensure all wires have proper insulation. If you suspect a short circuit, it’s best to call a professional—these can be tricky and potentially dangerous to fix on your own.

2. Ground Faults

Ground faults happen when the electrical current tries to travel through the ground, instead of following its intended path. This can be even more hazardous than a short circuit, as it may result in an electric shock, or in severe cases, cause a fire.

Worn-out insulation, faulty wiring, or even water exposure can trigger a ground fault. Yes, water! If you’ve ever plugged in a device near a sink or in a damp environment, it’s possible for the wiring to come into contact with water, leading to a dangerous situation. If you live in a damp area or use electronics near water, it’s crucial to have Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) installed to protect you from these issues.

3. Electrical Overloads

Have you ever plugged a ton of devices into one outlet or connected multiple extension cords together? If so, you’re likely pushing that circuit past its limits, leading to an electrical overload. Essentially, the circuit can’t handle the demand, which causes the breaker to trip to prevent damage to your appliances or wiring.

Electrical overloads are commonly caused by overusing extension cords, connecting too many devices to a single outlet, or simply having insufficient wiring in older homes. To avoid this, try not to overload outlets and always check that your wiring is up to code for your electrical needs. If you’re unsure, a licensed electrician can evaluate your home’s electrical capacity and make upgrades as necessary.

Contact Buzz Electrical for All Your Circuit Breaker Needs in Northwest Arkansas