Why Does My Breaker Keep Tripping?
1. Overloaded Circuit (Most Common Cause)
An overloaded circuit happens when too many devices run on the same circuit at the same time.
Common examples:
- Space heater + microwave
- Hair dryer + bathroom heater
- Garage fridge + power tools
- EV charger sharing a circuit
Modern homes use more electricity than older wiring was designed to handle. If your home in
Portland or Beaverton was built before the 1990s, your circuits may simply be undersized for
today’s load demands.
What you can try:
- Unplug some devices
- Move appliances to different outlets
- Reset the breaker once
If it trips again? There’s a deeper issue.
2. Short Circuit (More Serious)
A short circuit occurs when a hot wire touches a neutral wire. This creates a surge of current and
immediately trips the breaker.
Warning signs:
- Burning smell
- Blackened outlet
- Warm switch or outlet
- Breaker trips instantly when reset
Short circuits can damage wiring and create fire risk. This is not a DIY situation.
3. Ground Fault (Common in Bathrooms & Kitchens)
Ground faults happen when electricity strays from its intended path — often near water.
That’s why kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor outlets use GFCI protection.
If your breaker trips when using:
- Coffee maker
- Toaster
- Bathroom outlets
- Outdoor extension cords
You may have a ground fault issue or a failing GFCI device.
4. Failing Breaker or Outdated Electrical Panel
Sometimes the breaker itself is the problem.
Older panels in Portland homes — especially brands like Federal Pacific or Zinsco — are known
to fail or trip unpredictably.
If your breaker:
- Feels loose
- Won’t reset
- Trips randomly without load
- Is in an older panel
It may be time for a panel evaluation or upgrade.
(We perform panel upgrades throughout Portland and Beaverton and can inspect your system
safely.)
Is It Safe to Keep Resetting a Breaker?
Here’s the rule: Reset once. If it trips again — stop!
Repeatedly forcing a breaker back on can:
- Overheat wiring
- Damage appliances
- Increase fire risk
Your electrical system is communicating something. It’s worth listening.
When Should You Call an Electrician?
Call a licensed electrician if:
- The breaker trips immediately
- You smell burning
- Lights flicker before it trips
- The same breaker trips repeatedly
- You have an older home with outdated wiring
At Smiley Electric, Inc., we provide professional electrical troubleshooting in:
- Portland
- Beaverton
- Hillsboro
- Cedar Mill
- Bethany
- Raleigh Hills
Our service call includes:
- Full diagnostic inspection
- Clear explanation of the problem
- Upfront pricing before repairs
- Safe, code-compliant work
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my breaker trip when I turn on one appliance?
That appliance may be drawing too much power, or the circuit may already be near capacity.
Can a bad breaker cause tripping?
Yes. Breakers wear out over time and may trip under normal loads.
Is a tripping breaker a fire hazard?
It can be if ignored. The breaker is protecting you — but the underlying problem needs correction.
Need Help With a Breaker That Keeps Tripping?
If you’re in Portland, Beaverton, or Hillsboro and dealing with a tripping breaker, we can help.
Smiley Electric, Inc.
Licensed & Insured
Oregon CCB #227116
Call today to schedule a professional electrical diagnostic.
Call 503-484-7556