Why Does Your Circuit Breaker Keep Tripping? Understanding the Causes and Solutions

Circuit breakers are essential safety devices in every home, designed to protect your electrical system from overloads, short circuits, and other hazards. When a breaker trips, it stops the flow of electricity, preventing damage to your home and appliances. However, frequent tripping can be frustrating and a sign of an underlying issue that needs attention.

In this blog post, we’ll dive deeper into the common reasons your circuit breaker might be tripping, how to troubleshoot the problem, and when you should call an electrician.

What is a Circuit Breaker and How Does It Work?

A circuit breaker is a crucial part of your home’s electrical panel. Its main function is to cut off electrical flow when it detects abnormal conditions like excess current or a short circuit. This safety feature helps prevent electrical fires, overheating, and potential damage to devices and appliances in your home.

When your breaker trips, it’s essentially protecting your wiring from dangerous levels of heat or current that could cause long-term harm. But if the breaker trips repeatedly, it means your system is encountering an ongoing issue that needs to be addressed.

Common Causes of Tripping Breakers

Several factors can cause a circuit breaker to trip, but the most common ones include:

Overloaded Circuit

One of the most frequent reasons a breaker trips is an overloaded circuit. This happens when too many devices are plugged into a single circuit, demanding more power than the circuit can safely handle. For example, plugging multiple high-power appliances (like a microwave, refrigerator, and space heater) into the same outlet can overload the circuit and cause it to trip.

Solution: Spread out high-energy devices across multiple circuits. Avoid using power strips for large appliances, and ensure that each major appliance has its own dedicated circuit.

Short Circuit

A short circuit occurs when a live wire touches a neutral or ground wire, causing a surge of electrical current. This can result in sparks, excessive heat, and potentially dangerous electrical fires. A short circuit is often accompanied by a burning smell or visible scorching around outlets or appliances.

Solution: If you suspect a short circuit, unplug all devices and examine outlets and switches for any signs of damage. Contact a licensed electrician immediately to inspect the wiring and repair any faulty components.

Ground Fault

Similar to a short circuit, a ground fault happens when a live wire makes contact with the ground wire or a grounded surface. Ground faults are especially common in damp areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor outlets, where moisture can interfere with the electrical system.

Solution: Make sure that **ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs)** are installed in moisture-prone areas to prevent shocks and minimize the risk of tripping breakers. GFCIs are designed to shut off power when they detect ground faults, protecting both your home and family.

Arc Fault

An arc fault occurs when electrical wiring is loose or damaged, creating an arc of electricity that can generate excessive heat. This often happens behind walls or within electrical outlets, making it harder to detect without professional help.

Solution: Arc faults can be dangerous, so it’s important to have arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) installed in your electrical panel to detect and shut off arc faults. If you’re experiencing frequent tripping and suspect an arc fault, call an electrician to assess and upgrade your electrical system.

How to Troubleshoot a Tripping Breaker

If your breaker has tripped, here’s a simple troubleshooting guide to help you identify the cause:

1. **Unplug Devices**: Start by unplugging everything connected to the circuit that tripped.
2. **Reset the Breaker**: Go to your electrical panel and locate the tripped breaker (it will usually be in the “off” position). Flip it fully to “off,” then switch it back to “on.”
3. **Test Devices**: Plug devices back in one by one. If the breaker trips again after plugging in a specific appliance, that appliance might be the cause of the problem.
4. **Check for Visible Damage**: Inspect outlets, switches, and appliances for signs of burning, scorching, or exposed wiring. If you notice any damage, stop using the device and contact a professional.

When to Call an Electrician

While some tripped breakers are easy to resolve by redistributing appliances or resetting the breaker, others may signal more serious electrical issues. Here are some warning signs that it’s time to call an electrician:

• Breaker continues to trip, even after reducing the load.
• You notice burn marks, a burning smell, or unusual buzzing noises near outlets.
• Flickering lights or frequent power outages occur in specific rooms.
• Your electrical system is old or hasn’t been inspected in years.

Corps Electric in Oklahoma City is a trusted provider of residential electrical services, with extensive experience in diagnosing and repairing electrical issues. From installing dedicated circuits to troubleshooting complex problems, we can ensure your home’s electrical system is safe, efficient, and up to code. Learn more about our Electrical Services.

How to Prevent Future Breaker Trips

To minimize the risk of future breaker trips, follow these tips:

• **Upgrade Your Electrical Panel**: If your home is older or you’ve recently added new appliances, consider upgrading your electrical panel to accommodate modern electrical demands.
• **Use Dedicated Circuits**: High-energy appliances like refrigerators, washers, dryers, and HVAC systems should each have their own circuit to prevent overloads.
• **Regular Inspections**: Schedule routine inspections with a licensed electrician to ensure your wiring is up to date and your breakers are functioning correctly.

Conclusion

While a tripping breaker can be an inconvenience, it’s also a valuable safety feature that protects your home from electrical hazards. By understanding the common causes of tripping breakers—such as overloads, short circuits, and ground faults—you can take steps to address the issue and prevent future occurrences. If you’re unsure about the cause or unable to resolve the problem yourself, don’t hesitate to reach out to Corps Electric for professional help.

For reliable electrical services in Oklahoma City, contact Corps Electric today and ensure your home stays powered safely.

Corps Electric
Ph. 405-972-3112

Lighting plays a crucial role in enhancing the aesthetics and functionality of any space. From creating ambiance to improving visibility, the right lighting choices can transform a room. In this blog, we’ll delve into the nuances of lighting, with a particular focus on bathrooms, while also exploring the broader applications of different lighting temperatures and the significance of Color Rendering Index (CRI).

Understanding Kelvin Temperature: One of the key aspects of lighting is the color temperature, measured in Kelvins (K). Kelvin temperature determines the warmth or coolness of light. Here’s a breakdown of common Kelvin temperatures and their suitable applications:

1. Warm White (2700K-3000K):
   • Best for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
   • Ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and accent lighting.
   • Creates a comfortable and relaxing ambiance.
2. Neutral White (3500K-4000K):
   • Strikes a balance between warm and cool tones.
   • Suitable for kitchens, offices, and task lighting.
   • Offers a crisp and clear illumination.
3. Cool White (5000K-6500K):
   • Mimics natural daylight.
   • Well-suited for bathrooms, kitchens, and workspaces.
   • Enhances visibility and focus.

Choosing the Right Kelvin for Bathrooms: Bathrooms serve various purposes, from relaxation to grooming. For bathrooms, a combination of warm and cool lighting is often recommended:

• Vanity Lighting: Opt for a color temperature between 3000K and 4000K to achieve a flattering balance. This ensures accurate color representation during grooming tasks.
• Ambient Lighting: Consider using a warmer color temperature (around 2700K) for ambient lighting to create a spa-like atmosphere during relaxation.

Color Rendering Index (CRI): CRI measures how accurately a light source renders colors compared to natural light. A higher CRI indicates better color accuracy. In spaces like bathrooms where accurate color representation is crucial, aim for a CRI above 80.

The Shadow Dilemma: Overhead lighting fixtures, when placed exclusively above the vanity, tend to cast shadows on the face. This is particularly problematic during grooming tasks, where precision is key. Shadows can obscure facial features, making it challenging to apply makeup, shave, or carry out other personal care routines effectively.

Reasons Behind Shadows:

1. Single-Directional Light Source: Overhead lighting fixtures provide illumination from a single direction. This creates stark shadows, especially when the light is coming from directly above.
2. Inadequate Side Lighting: Without additional lighting on the sides of the mirror, the face is left with uneven illumination. Shadows form on one side of the face, impacting visibility and accuracy during grooming.
3. Limited Coverage: Overhead lighting may not sufficiently cover the entire vanity area, leaving corners and edges in shadow. This compromises the functionality and aesthetics of the space.

Strategic Sidelighting Solutions: To address the shadow dilemma and achieve balanced illumination in the bathroom, consider incorporating sidelighting in addition to overhead fixtures. Sidelighting involves placing fixtures on each side of the bathroom mirror, at eye level. Here’s why it’s a game-changer:

1. Even Illumination: Sidelighting eliminates shadows by providing light from multiple directions, ensuring that the face is evenly illuminated. This is essential for tasks like applying makeup or shaving.
2. Reduced Harshness: Combining overhead and sidelighting softens the overall lighting in the space, reducing harsh shadows and creating a more flattering and comfortable environment.
3. Enhanced Aesthetics: Sidelighting not only improves functionality but also enhances the aesthetics of the bathroom. It adds a layer of depth and sophistication to the overall lighting design.

Conclusion: While overhead lighting fixtures have their place in bathroom design, relying exclusively on them directly above the vanity can lead to undesirable shadows. The strategic inclusion of sidelighting on each side of the mirror is the key to banishing shadows and achieving optimal illumination for grooming tasks. A thoughtful combination of overhead and sidelighting not only addresses functional concerns but also contributes to a well-lit and aesthetically pleasing bathroom environment. Whether you’re lighting a bathroom or any other space, understanding Kelvin temperature and CRI will guide you towards making the right lighting choices.

 

When it comes to electrical services, it’s always best to have a local electrician who knows the area and the unique needs of both residential and commercial properties. In Oklahoma City, there are plenty of electricians to choose from, but choosing a local electrician can make all the difference.

One of the biggest advantages of choosing a local electrician in Oklahoma City is their knowledge of the area. They know the local codes and regulations, which means they can ensure that all electrical work is done according to the local laws. Additionally, they understand the unique electrical needs of homes and businesses in the area. Whether it’s dealing with power outages during tornado season or providing backup generators for businesses, a local electrician is equipped to handle any situation.

Residential Electrical Services

A local electrician in Oklahoma City can provide a wide range of residential electrical services. From simple repairs like fixing a faulty outlet or installing a ceiling fan, to more complex projects like rewiring an entire house, a local electrician has the expertise to get the job done right. They can also provide electrical safety inspections, which can help identify potential hazards and prevent electrical fires. Read more about our Residential Electric Services in OKC.

Commercial Electrical Services

When it comes to commercial electrical services, a local electrician in Oklahoma City is the best choice. They can provide a variety of services, from installing new lighting or upgrading electrical panels, to installing backup generators or setting up a comprehensive surveillance system. They can also design and implement energy-efficient solutions to help businesses save money on their electricity bills.

Emergency Electrical Services

In addition to their regular services, a local electrician in Oklahoma City can also provide emergency electrical services. Electrical emergencies can happen at any time, and it’s important to have a reliable electrician on speed dial. Whether it’s a power outage, a blown fuse, or a sparking outlet, a local electrician can quickly diagnose the problem and provide a solution.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a local electrician in Oklahoma City is the best choice for both residential and commercial electrical services. They have the knowledge, expertise, and experience to handle any electrical project, no matter how big or small. Plus, they’re always available for emergency services, which can provide peace of mind knowing that help is just a phone call away. So, if you need electrical services in Oklahoma City, don’t hesitate to contact a local electrician today.

 

Mike Griggs
Corps Electric
(405)972-3112

It is important for an electrician to install a ceiling fan for several reasons. First, installing a ceiling fan involves electrical wiring, which can be dangerous if not done properly. An electrician has the knowledge and training to safely and correctly install the wiring and electrical components required for a ceiling fan.

Secondly, a ceiling fan installation requires mounting the fan securely to the ceiling, which can be a challenging task. An electrician will have the necessary tools and equipment to ensure that the fan is mounted correctly and securely, reducing the risk of it falling or becoming damaged.

Finally, an electrician can ensure that the ceiling fan is installed in compliance with local building codes and safety regulations. This can help to avoid potential issues with the installation, such as electrical hazards or fire hazards.

Overall, having an electrician install a ceiling fan can provide peace of mind that the installation has been done safely and correctly, and can help to ensure that the fan operates properly and efficiently for years to come.

Read more about our electrical fixture installation services.

If you are needing a local electrician to install a ceiling fan, call Corps Electric in Oklahoma City. Veteran Owned and Operated.

 

 

Mike Griggs
Corps Electric
(405)972-3112

If you’re a homeowner in Oklahoma City, you know how important it is to have a reliable electrician you can trust. Electrical problems can be dangerous and even life-threatening, so it’s crucial to have an expert who can handle any issues that may arise.

In this article, we’ll explore the importance of having a residential electrician in Oklahoma City and what to look for when choosing one.

Why You Need a Residential Electrician in Oklahoma City

There are many reasons why you may need a residential electrician in Oklahoma City. Here are just a few:

1. Electrical Safety: Electrical problems can be dangerous and even deadly. A licensed electrician can identify and fix any issues to ensure your home is safe.
2. Electrical Upgrades: If you’re renovating your home or adding new appliances, you may need to upgrade your electrical system to handle the increased load.
3. Electrical Repairs: From flickering lights to tripping breakers, electrical problems can be frustrating and disruptive. A residential electrician can diagnose and fix any issues quickly and efficiently.
4. Code Compliance: Building codes and regulations are constantly changing, and your electrical system must comply with the latest standards. A residential electrician can ensure your home is up to code and safe for your family.

What to Look for in a Residential Electrician

When choosing a residential electrician in Oklahoma City, there are several factors to consider:

1. Licensing and Insurance: Make sure the electrician you choose is licensed and insured. This ensures that they have the necessary training and qualifications to do the job safely and effectively. It also protects you in case of an accident or damage to your property.
2. Experience: Look for an electrician with experience working in residential settings. They should be familiar with the electrical systems commonly found in homes and have a track record of success.
3. Reputation: Check online reviews in Google, Bing and Facebook, and ask for references from past clients. A reputable electrician should have plenty of positive reviews and be willing to provide references.
4. Customer Service: A good electrician should be responsive, professional, and easy to work with. They should communicate clearly and be willing to answer any questions you may have.

Conclusion

Having a reliable residential electrician in Oklahoma City is essential for the safety and well-being of your family. When choosing an electrician, look for someone who is licensed, experienced, and has a good reputation for customer service. With the right electrician by your side, you can have peace of mind knowing that your home’s electrical system is safe and up to code.

Corps Electric is a veteran-owned electrician, locally owned and operated, and available to assist with all of your residential electrical needs in the Oklahoma City metro area. Call us TODAY for a estimate on your next project.

If you’re a homeowner in Oklahoma City, you know how important it is to keep your home safe and secure. One way to do that is by installing a Ring doorbell, or any of the new video doorbells now popular on the market. These smart doorbells allow you to see and speak to anyone who comes to your door, even if you’re not home. But if you’re not tech-savvy, you may be wondering where to turn for professional Ring doorbell installation near you. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of Ring doorbell installation and what to look for in a professional installer.

Benefits of Ring Doorbell Installation

Installing a Ring doorbell offers several benefits for homeowners in Oklahoma City:

1. Increased Security: With a Ring doorbell, you can monitor who comes to your door, even when you’re not home. This can deter burglars and keep your home safe and secure.
2. Convenience: Ring doorbells allow you to see and speak to visitors from your smartphone or tablet, making it easy to communicate with delivery drivers or other visitors.
3. Peace of Mind: Knowing that you can monitor your home’s front porch and entrances can give you peace of mind, especially when you’re away from home.

What to Look for in a Professional Installer

When looking for a professional installer for your Ring doorbell, there are several factors to consider:

1. Experience: Look for an installer with experience installing Ring doorbells. They should be familiar with the installation process and any issues that may arise.
2. Licensing and Insurance: Make sure the installer you choose is licensed and insured. This protects you in case of any damage to your property or accidents during the installation process.
3. Reputation: Check online reviews and ask for references from past clients. A reputable installer should have plenty of positive reviews and be willing to provide references.
4. Customer Service: A good installer should be responsive, professional, and easy to work with. They should communicate clearly and be willing to answer any questions you may have.

Finding Ring Doorbell Installation Near You

Corps Electric offers professional Ring doorbell installation near you in Oklahoma City, offering electrical services not only in OKC, but the surrounding metro areas, including Edmond, Norman, Yukon, Moore, and Mustang. Whether you are needing a simple Ring doorbell installation, or any of the other popular video doorbells, we can assist you with getting your new doorbell up and running.

Conclusion

Installing a Ring doorbell can increase your home’s security and give you peace of mind. We offer professional installation, with experience, licensing and insurance, as well as great reputation, and excellent customer reviews. With the right installer by your side, you can enjoy all the benefits of a smart doorbell without any of the hassle of installation.

Contact Corps Electric TODAY for more information.

Electricity, what a luxury, along with air conditioning, what did the human race ever do without them?

I am not sure what it was like, but I can for sure say, I am thankful to have been spoiled with them.
Now when either of them are not working, let the anxiety begin. What happened, what could be wrong, and what is it going to take to get that comfort back.

I can’t say for the HVAC, however for the breaker that might be tripping, and being a nuisance, I just might be able to help.

The two main reasons a breaker may be tripping, and while it may be a nuisance, it is doing its job. This first, and in no particular order, would be due to a short, in the circuit. This is a failure at some point in the circuit. Assuming you have a service, and wiring that is properly grounded. Many older homes may not be. You could have a failure and not know it.

In the circuit, that has the ground wire, known as the equipment grounding conductor, this conductor, is to be connected to all metal surfaces associated with that circuit, that are not intended to normally carry current. If there is a fault and the normal current carrying conductor comes in contact with any metal surface, then it will be a direct short and instantaneously trip that breaker.

The other situation that will cause a breaker to trip would be an overload.

Imagine if you will, you have a circuit breaker that, is rated for 20 amps, and you have a duplex receptacle that is rated for 15 amps (typical in a house). A vacuum cleaner will consume around 12 amps.

According to the NEC (national electrical code), for a residence there is only a requirement on the number of circuits required based on the size of the home. However, there is no limit on the number of lights or receptacles installed on an individual circuit. This pertains to most circuits in the home.

Back to the point. So, we have a twenty amp circuit that has, let’s just say ten 15 amp duplex receptacles. The maximum load on that receptacle, can not be more than 12 amps. Load up all ten of those, receptacles and now you have an overload.

The breaker may hold for a bit with 20 amps, maybe up to 3 hours. Maybe not. One more high load device and that breaker is going to trip.

If you are experiencing issues like this, your least expensive option is to unplug and relocate your, you name it. If this not an option you need to add an additional 20 amp circuit.

I have seen some, think they can remedy this, by installing a larger circuit breaker.

This is a mistake! It is a recipe for a fire. The wiring nor the devices are rated for this. They will overheat, they will begin to melt, and can go up in flames.

If your home is older than 60 years, it most likely has already experienced these overload situations. The wiring in these older homes is not adequate, and needs to be updated. At some point in time, some one has come along and installed 20 amp breakers on circuit wiring that is not capable of carrying that current.

So now we know what can cause a breaker to trip, now what?

Let’s get everything unplugged, unless you can pinpoint any exact cause. Turn off any lights. Now make a trip to your breaker box. Most breaker when tripped, will be In the center position. There are some that is hard to tell if it is in the tripped position. If your panel is properly labeled, you should be able to locate it.

If you can see the one, that is tripped, now you have to physically push it all the way to the off position, before you can turn it back on.

If you can not tell which breaker is tripped , then it is time to start cycling each breaker off then back on.

Now go back to the area of your home and try the lights (easiest) then start plugging things back in.

If you are experiencing any electrical issue, please don’t procrastinate, call your electrician now!

If you don’t know who to call, call Corps (core) Electric. I will get you back in working order.

 

Mike Griggs
Corps Electric
(405)972-3112

Flickering lights are most often a result of a connection problem. This can be inside the home, or it can be outside the home.

If you have an overhead service, then my first recommendation, would be to contact the utility company and let them know your issues, and see if they can check the connections with their wiring. This should not be any money out of pocket for you. If you have an underground service, then the problem most likely is in the home.

Electricity is a strange creature, sometimes the flickering lights will be isolated to one area of the house, and your first thought is that you have a problem in that area, and it winds up being a bad utility connection.

This why, I recommend having your utility service checked first.

If your utility, checks fine and your flickering lights are in multiple areas of the house then, you need to contact an electrician to check your electrical panel for connection issues.

If your flickering lights are isolated to one are of your house, then the next place to check is connections at the switch. If the switch is good, let’s take a look at the light.

Now depending on the age of the home, your electrical devices, switches and receptacles may have been backstabbed. When I first started my journey, to become an electrician in 1993, backstabbing devices , was not happening. I have read that this was common in the 70’s however I can not say for sure. What I do know,is that it is a problem.

If you are experiencing issues of any kind and are in need of an electrician, please give me a call. I will take care of you.

 

Mike Griggs
Corps Electric
(405)972-3112