When the Power Keeps Cutting Out, Don’t Ignore It
We’ve all been there: you’re cooking dinner, someone flips on the hair dryer, and suddenly, boom, the power cuts out. Your breaker’s been tripped again. While resetting it might get things back on track for now, repeated trips are a warning sign. Something deeper is going on in your home’s electrical system.
Here’s why circuit breakers trip, what it means for your safety, and when to call in a skilled electrician from GoHero Home Services.
1. Overloaded Circuits
The most common reason a breaker trips is a simple overload. This happens when too many high-powered devices are running on the same circuit, think space heaters, blenders, or air conditioners, all drawing juice at once.
What to Do: Unplug a few items and try spreading usage across different outlets. If this is a frequent problem, your system might need a capacity upgrade.
2. Short Circuits
Short circuits are more serious. This happens when a hot wire touches a neutral wire, causing an immediate surge. This could be due to damaged wires, loose connections, or faulty appliances, and it poses a real fire hazard.
Warning Signs: Burnt smells, discolored outlets, or loud popping when breakers trip.
What to Do: Stop using the affected outlet or device immediately and call a licensed electrician. This isn’t a DIY fix.
3. Ground Faults
Ground faults happen when a hot wire contacts a ground wire or the metal electrical box. These are common in wet areas like bathrooms or kitchens and can cause an electric shock.
What to Do: GFCI outlets (the ones with the reset buttons) are designed to protect against this. If they keep tripping, it’s time to have a professional check the circuit.
4. Faulty Breakers or Panels
Sometimes, the problem isn’t the wiring, it’s the breaker itself. Like anything mechanical, circuit breakers wear out over time. If your panel is outdated or your breakers feel hot, it might be time for a full upgrade.
What to Do: Don’t wait for a total failure. Have your panel inspected by a qualified technician to ensure it’s safe and up to code.
5. Loose Wiring or Aging Electrical Systems
In older homes, wiring can degrade, loosen, or even become hazardous over time. If your lights flicker and breakers trip randomly, this could be the cause.
What to Do: A full system inspection can pinpoint weaknesses. Upgrading your wiring may be the safest solution.
Safety First: Know When to Call a Pro
If your breaker trips once in a blue moon, it’s probably just an overload. But frequent tripping is your home’s way of saying, “Help!”
At GoHero Home Services, our licensed electricians in Knoxville and nearby areas can troubleshoot the issue, repair wiring, upgrade your breaker panel, or rebalance your circuits. Our goal is to keep your home safe, efficient, and fully powered. Don’t risk a fire, shock, or equipment damage.