Short answer: Breakers trip to keep wiring from overheating. If it trips after you plug in or run several appliances, the circuit is probably overloaded: move some of the load to another circuit. If it trips instantly when you reset it, or with nothing plugged in, there is likely a short or ground fault, and an electrician should find it. ESFI notes that a problem that continues after resetting may indicate more serious issues.
Quick diagnosis
| What you notice | Most likely cause | What to check | Call a pro? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trips when the microwave, heater or hair dryer runs | Overload | Unplug some devices and try again | If it continues |
| Trips the moment you reset it | Short circuit | Leave it off | Yes |
| Trips with nothing plugged in | Wiring fault or failing breaker | Leave it off | Yes |
| Trips when it rains or in one damp area | Ground fault in outdoor or damp circuit | Check outdoor outlets and covers | Often |
| Trips when the AC or a big appliance starts | Appliance fault or undersized circuit | Note which appliance | Yes |
Overloads
ESFI says a tripped breaker is most likely caused by too many appliances drawing power from one circuit. Space heaters, hair dryers, microwaves and window AC units draw a lot. To reset: unplug or turn off the devices on that circuit, switch the breaker fully off and then on, and spread the heavy loads across circuits.
Short circuits and ground faults
A short happens when a hot wire touches a neutral or ground, and a ground fault when current leaks to ground, often through water or a damaged cord. These trip the breaker immediately. Try unplugging everything on the circuit and resetting: if it still trips, the fault is in the wiring, an outlet or a hard-wired appliance.
Do not do this
- Do not keep resetting a breaker that trips instantly.
- Never replace a breaker or fuse with a higher rating. ESFI warns to replace a fuse only with one of the same amperage.
- Do not remove the panel cover unless you are qualified.
When to call a professional
- It trips again right after resetting, or with nothing plugged in.
- You smell burning, see scorch marks or hear buzzing at the panel or outlets.
- The breaker feels hot or will not reset.
- Your home has knob-and-tube or 1960s-1970s aluminum wiring, which ESFI says should be checked by a licensed electrician.
What it usually costs
Electricians typically charge $50 to $130 per hour, and many have a one-hour minimum or a $100 to $200 trip fee, according to HomeGuide (2026).
Frequently asked questions
Why does my breaker trip with nothing plugged in?
That points to a fault in the wiring, a device, a hard-wired appliance or the breaker itself. Call an electrician.
Is it dangerous if a breaker keeps tripping?
The breaker is protecting you, but repeated trips mean something is wrong. Find the cause rather than resetting over and over.
Related problems
Sources
- ESFI: Understanding your home electrical system
- U.S. CPSC: Home electrical safety checklist (PDF)
- Bob Vila: Why your circuit breaker keeps tripping
- HomeGuide: Electrical outlet repair cost (2026)
This guide is general information, not a substitute for an inspection by a licensed professional. See our disclaimer.