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Bonded, and Insured.
Bonded, and Insured.
Circuit breakers are one of the most critical components of your home's electrical system. Yet, despite their importance, they’re often misunderstood. Many homeowners know how to reset a tripped breaker, but few understand what a circuit breaker actually does or why it trips in the first place.
In this blog post, we'll break down everything you need to know about circuit breakers, why they sometimes trip, and when it’s time to call a professional electrician in Apopka, FL, like Spectrum Electric Inc, to address potential electrical issues.
A circuit breaker is a safety device designed to protect your home’s electrical system from overloads, short circuits, and other potential hazards. Think of it as the gatekeeper for electricity flowing through your home. If an issue arises—such as too much electricity being drawn or a sudden fault in the system—the circuit breaker "trips" and stops the flow of electrical current. This helps prevent fires, electrical shocks, and damage to your appliances or wiring.
Here’s how it works:
Under normal circumstances, electricity flows safely through your home's circuits, powering appliances, lights, and other devices.
When the circuit detects an excess current (i.e., the demand exceeds safe limits) or a fault (such as a short circuit), the system acts.
The circuit breaker terminal automatically shuts down power to that particular circuit, stopping the flow of electricity.
A tripped breaker can happen for several reasons, including issues with appliances, improper wiring, or overloading the system. Below are some of the most common causes:
Plugging too many high-power appliances or devices into the same circuit can cause it to draw more current than the breaker is designed to handle.
This occurs when a live wire comes into direct contact with a neutral wire. It often leads to sparks or a loud "popping" sound and can be extremely dangerous.
Similar to a short circuit, ground faults happen when a live wire touches a ground wire or a metal surface in your home. These can be even riskier in damp or wet areas like bathrooms or kitchens.
An outdated or malfunctioning appliance can draw an irregular current, tripping the breaker as a safety measure.
Understanding the different causes of a tripped breaker helps you identify minor issues that can be resolved at home versus problems that require professional help.
For minor issues like an overloaded circuit, resetting the breaker can resolve the issue. Here’s how to safely reset it:
If the breaker stays on, you’re good to go. But what if it trips again or doesn’t reset at all? That’s your cue to call a licensed electrician.
If your breaker keeps tripping despite unplugging devices and resetting it, there may be an underlying issue such as a short circuit or ground fault.
A burning odor or visible scorch marks around your breaker panel indicate potential electrical fires—a serious issue that needs immediate professional attention.
Circuit breakers don’t last forever. If yours are more than 20 to 30 years old, they may need to be replaced. Outdated panels like Federal Pacific or Zinsco are particularly prone to failure and should be inspected by a certified electrician.
Older homes may have wiring that doesn’t meet current electrical codes. Faulty or damaged wiring can cause frequent circuit breaker problems.
If you're in Apopka, FL, Spectrum Electric Inc is only a call away. With certified electricians experienced in troubleshooting circuit breakers and other electrical issues, we ensure your home’s electrical system remains safe and efficient.
Today’s homes demand more electricity than ever before, thanks to an increase in electronic devices, high-performance appliances, and smart home systems. Unfortunately, many homes were not built to handle such demands, leading to frequent breaker trips.
If your electrical panel is outdated or your circuits regularly overload, it may be time to consider an upgrade to meet modern standards. Spectrum Electric Inc specializes in panel upgrades to ensure your system can handle today’s energy needs without compromising safety.
Routine maintenance is key to keeping your electrical system in top shape. Professional inspections can catch issues like loose connections, worn-out breakers, and frayed wiring before they escalate into expensive repairs or safety hazards.
Spectrum Electric Inc provides comprehensive electrical inspections in Apopka, FL. Our licensed electricians not only troubleshoot existing problems but also provide advice on preventive measures to protect your home and family.
At Spectrum Electric Inc, we understand the importance of a reliable and safe electrical system. Whether you’re dealing with a frequently tripping breaker, need a panel upgrade, or simply want peace of mind through a routine inspection, we’re here to help.
Our team of experienced electricians delivers exceptional service tailored to your home or business's specific needs. With a reputation for quality and professionalism, Spectrum Electric Inc is Apopka’s go-to source for electrical expertise.
Why Choose Us?
Don’t wait until a small problem turns into a major headache. Call Spectrum Electric Inc today to experience the best electrical services in Apopka, FL.
If you’re looking for professional electricians in Apopka, FL, Spectrum Electric Inc has you covered. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our electrical services.
Your safety is our priority. Trust Spectrum Electric Inc to keep your home wired for success.