A tripping breaker is a warning
A breaker switches off to protect the wiring from too much current or from a fault. If it keeps tripping, something is wrong. Don't tape it down, hold it up, or replace it with a bigger one, because that removes the protection and can cause a fire.
Common causes
- Overload: too many heavy things, like an iron, heater, geyser, kettle or AC, running on the same line.
- A faulty appliance, for example one that trips the moment it is plugged in.
- Damp in wiring, a socket or a switch, especially in the rainy season or in bathrooms and outside areas.
- Old or damaged wiring, loose connections, or a short circuit.
Safe checks
- Switch off and unplug the heavy appliances on that line. Reset the breaker once. If it stays on, plug the appliances back one at a time to find which one makes it trip.
- Stand on a dry floor and keep your hands dry. Don't touch the breaker board or sockets if there is water nearby.
- Stop and call an electrician if it trips with nothing plugged in, if there is a burning smell, a buzzing sound, a hot or discoloured socket or board, or if there are sparks.
- Don't open the main board or touch wires yourself. Wiring work needs a trained electrician.