tripping circuit breakers

Electricians in Fort Saskatchewan AB

Electricians in Fort Saskatchewan AB

Electricians in Fort Saskatchewan AB

Wireworks Electrical Services Ltd. is locally owned and operated proudly serving Fort Saskatchewan and area since 2008.  We appreciate that there are a few options when searching for an electrician in our area and we are proud to stand out from the competition as one of the trusted electricians in Fort Saskatchewan AB.  We conduct business with a transparency and a 'fix it right -first-time'' work ethic.  Our Journeyman Electricians have vast ….

Why is my circuit breaker tripping?

Why is my circuit breaker tripping?

Why do circuit breakers trip? Circuit breakers are designed to provide a level of electrical safety for your home or business and are installed in your Circuit Breaker Box (Electrical Panel).  Each circuit will have its own breaker where it’s sole purpose is to monitor the amount of electricity that is flowing.  When there is a surge of electricity, or an overload, the circuit breaker will turn off to prevent potential risks and further damage …..

Do You Need To Upgrade Your Circuit Breaker Box?

Do You Need To Upgrade Your Circuit Breaker Box?

Do think you need to upgrade your circuit breaker box, ?  Here are some things to be aware of so you can make an educated decision.   If you think that you do need to overhaul your electrical system there are a few main components that need attention.  The first thing to consider is upgrade your panel to bring more power from the utility company into your home.   From there one could also identify if it's ….

3 Reasons Why You are Tripping Your Breakers

3 Reasons Why You are Tripping Your Breakers | Wireworks Electrical Services Ltd. Fort Saskatchewan and Sherwood Park AB

3 Reasons Why You are Tripping Your Breakers | Wireworks Electrical Services Ltd. Fort Saskatchewan and Sherwood Park AB

 REASONS WHY YOU ARE TRIPPING YOUR BREAKERS 

You have just renovated your kitchen. You feel like Gord Ramsay on fire when everything is working smoothly.  Here’s the clincher.  You have all these wonderful new stainless steel appliances and yet this upgrade has thrown the proverbial spatula in your ability to deliver a brunch masterpiece.   Your sweet new appliances, while be it awesome, also require a great deal more power.  For older homes that have not had their circuits and breaker box upgraded, means there is a chance that it is struggling to keep up with energy demand. This could be the reason why you are now overloading the circuits and tripping the breakers.

A circuit breaker will shut itself off to prevent further damage such as overheating or even an electrical fire.  If you have aluminum wiring in your home this is even more of a concern for you. ( See ‘Aluminum Wiring Concerns in Older Homes’ ).

There are typically 3 reasons as to why a circuit breaker will trip or shut off:

1. Overloaded Circuit

  • Too many devices, gadgets or appliances being used at the same time on the same circuit that require a lot of energy to run.

  • Overheating appliance.

Resolution:

  • Move the plugged-in items that were on the overloaded circuit to another all- purpose circuit to even out the electricity demand on that circuit.

  • Unplug or turn off some of the devices or appliances that are on the overloaded circuit to reduce the electrical demand.    

2. Short Circuit

  • This a more dangerous situation and requires the attention of an electrician.

  • You smell a burning odor.

  • Occurs when a hot wire ( black ) touches another hot or even neutral wire ( white ) in one of the outlets that you are using.

  • Check your outlets and plugs looking for brown/black discoloration.

  • Can be caused by a loose or poor connection in the box or receptacle.

3. Ground Fault

  • Similar to a short circuit, a ground fault will occur when the black ‘hot’ wire touches the bare copper ground wire on the side of a metal outlet box that is connected to the ground wire.

  • Should also have the attention of an electrician to confirm if there are other factors at play.

Always consult with a qualified and reputable electrical company if something doesn’t seem quite right.  Wireworks Electrical Services Ltd. can assist you with the upgrade of your circuit breakers and breaker box.    

We are available by phone at 780-289-1660, by email at ray@wireworksltd.com should you have any questions.  Or click here to request a free estimate today.