A breaker trips to protect the wiring, so a breaker that keeps tripping is telling you something. The most common cause is an overloaded circuit: too many high-draw appliances, like space heaters, hair dryers and microwaves, on one circuit at once. Unplug some loads and reset it. If it holds, spread those appliances across other circuits.
If it trips right away or with almost nothing running, suspect a short circuit (a hot wire touching a neutral or ground), a ground fault, often in a bathroom, kitchen or outdoor outlet exposed to moisture, or an arc fault from damaged wiring. Breakers also wear out. Stop resetting and call an electrician if you smell burning, see scorch marks, or find an outlet or switch plate that’s warm to the touch.
Electrical troubleshooting and repair is offered by our St. George & Hurricane team. If the circuit is simply overloaded because the home has outgrown its service, that team also handles panel upgrades. Electrical repair isn’t offered in Flagstaff, Durango or Jackson.
