Electrical problem
Why does the breaker trip?
A breaker that trips repeatedly can indicate overload, a faulty appliance, short circuit or an electrical installation issue. Do not keep forcing it back on if the problem returns immediately.
Possible causes
- too many consumers on the same circuit;
- a faulty or wet appliance;
- damaged socket, extension cord or cable;
- short circuit or bad contact in the installation;
- incorrectly sized breaker or old panel.
Safe checks
- turn off large consumers and try once;
- disconnect the last appliance used before the issue;
- look for burnt smell, black marks or abnormal heat;
- if it trips again, keep the circuit off and request inspection.
What not to do
Do not block a breaker, do not replace it with a larger one without calculation and do not open the panel unless authorized. If there is burnt smell, smoke or abnormal heating, cut the power and request service.