Why Your Breakers Keep Tripping — Causes, Safety Risks, and When to Call a Licensed Electrician in Ontario
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Why Do Breakers Trip? Understanding the Real Cause
When your breaker trips, it’s actually doing its job—protecting your home from potential electrical fires. A circuit breaker automatically shuts off electricity when it detects excessive current flow. This safety function prevents your wires from overheating or shorting out.
However, if you find yourself resetting breakers often, that’s a warning sign. Your system might be overloaded, outdated, or unsafe. Let’s look at the main causes behind tripping breakers and how to prevent them.
1. Circuit Overload
One of the most common reasons for tripping breakers is too many devices running on the same circuit. For example, plugging in your space heater, hair dryer, and vacuum on the same line can easily overload the breaker.
✅ Solution:
Unplug some devices and spread high-power appliances across different outlets or circuits.
If your electrical panel continues to overload, consider upgrading it to a higher capacity—like 200 amps—to meet modern energy needs safely.
2. Short Circuits
A short circuit happens when a hot wire touches a neutral or ground wire, creating a sudden surge of current. This causes the breaker to trip immediately. Warning signs include a burning smell, black marks, or warm outlets.
⚠️ Safety Tip:
Never ignore a short circuit. Turn off power to the affected area and call a licensed electrician right away. Attempting repairs without proper training or tools can lead to electrical fires or severe injuries.
3. Ground Faults
A ground fault occurs when electricity escapes its normal path and flows directly into the ground—often due to damaged insulation or moisture. This is especially dangerous in bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor outlets.
💡 Prevention:
Install GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets. These safety devices instantly shut off power when they detect abnormal current flow, protecting you from shocks and electrical hazards.
4. Faulty Appliances or Wiring
Sometimes the problem isn’t with the panel—it’s with a malfunctioning appliance or aging wiring. Old cords, loose connections, or aluminum wiring from older homes can all cause breakers to trip repeatedly.
👷 Professional Solution:
According to Ontario’s Electrical Safety Code, only an ESA-licensed electrical contractor can safely inspect circuits, identify wiring faults, and replace damaged components.
Never attempt to fix wiring issues yourself—it’s not worth the risk.
5. Old Electrical Panels
Outdated panels, especially those still using fuses instead of breakers, often can’t handle the power demands of today’s high-energy homes. These panels are more prone to overheating, failure, and even electrical fires.
🔧 Upgrade Suggestion:
If your home still has a fuse box or an undersized panel (like 60 or 100 amps), contact Kiyan Electric Inc. to upgrade to a modern 200-amp or 400-amp electrical panel. This not only improves safety but also prepares your home for future needs such as EV chargers or hot tub installations.
When to Hire a Licensed Electrician
In Ontario, only ESA-licensed electrical contractors can legally perform electrical work.
Hiring unlicensed workers is dangerous and can void your home insurance.
Kiyan Electric Inc., based in Richmond Hill, is fully licensed, insured for $5 million, and covered by WSIB. Our Master Electrician ensures every project—from permits to inspections—meets the Ontario Electrical Safety Code.
Our Professional Services Include:
· Troubleshooting and circuit breaker replacement
· Electrical panel upgrades (100A, 200A, 400A)
· Fuse-to-breaker conversions
· GFCI installation and protection
· EV charger installation and load calculations
Keep Your Home Safe from Future Breaker Trips
It’s normal for breakers to trip occasionally—but if it happens frequently, it’s time for expert help. Kiyan Electric Inc. offers free estimates across Richmond Hill and the Greater Toronto Area.
Our licensed electricians ensure your home’s electrical system operates safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with Ontario’s electrical standards.
Call to Action:
Stop resetting—start protecting!
Contact Kiyan Electric Inc. today for a free estimate on electrical repairs, panel upgrades, or breaker troubleshooting.
Visit our website or call us to schedule your inspection by a licensed Master Electrician.
