4 Main Causes of Circuit Damage

Explaining the Circuit Breaker

Circuit breakers are automatic electrical switches designed to protect electrical circuits from overheating. When all lights go out, it's a sure indicator that the circuit breaker "tripped" or a fuse burst. The moment this occurs, all devices quickly cut the power to the circuit.  To repair this is to re-energize the breaker or replace the blown fuse. 

The quickest remedy for circuit breakers is to locate the tripped breaker and reset the lever to ON. When a fuse blows, a metal filament within the fuse burns through, necessitating a replacement fuse.

You must first determine why the breaker tripped or the fuse blew to prevent this from happening again. In rare cases, a professional may be required to change the breaker. In most situations, the breaker or fuse is just performing its job. Remember that circuit breakers and fuses are built to trip and shut down power to avoid more damage.

Cause #1: Circuit Overload

An overloaded circuit is the most common cause of a tripped circuit breaker. It occurs when a circuit attempts to draw more power than it is capable of handling. When too many appliances or lights are turned on at the same time, the circuit breaker "trips." As a result, the circuit becomes inactive. The circuit is inactive until the breaker lever is reset to ON, which re-arms the internal spring.

The circuit breaker or fuse accommodates the load of all the cables, and when wires become too hot, the breaker or fuse trips or bursts. This may also indicate that your home has short circuits and needs to be updated. The breaker's built-in time delay feature trips after 10 to 30 seconds when a circuit is overloaded.

Cause #2: Short Circuit

A breaker trips as a result of a short circuit. When the hot wire (black) makes contact with the neutral (white), ground (bond) wire, or a metal box, a "hard short" develops. A short circuit causes a fast rise in current flow within the breaker, activating the tripping mechanism. 

A short circuit may also happen if an appliance or device connected to an outlet along the circuit has a wiring problem. Short circuits can be challenging to detect and fix, even for electricians.

Cause #3: Ground Fault

A “ground-fault” develops when a hot wire hits a ground wire, a metal wall box, or metal frame pieces. They are hazardous in damp areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces. Fortunately, you may detect and fix a ground fault, as well as prevent one from forming. 

GFCIs (ground-fault circuit interrupters), for example, are necessary for areas where direct ground or water contact is anticipated.

Cause #4: Arc Fault

The National Electrical Code, which serves as the model code for most local regulations, has gradually increased the requirements for an arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI). AFCI breakers are reset in the same way as conventional breakers are. Tripping regularly suggests a poor wire connection that is causing arcing.

In addition to overloads, short circuits, and ground faults, AFCI breakers detect power fluctuations caused by sparking ("arcing") between contact points in a wired connection. This might be caused by loose screw terminal connections in a switch or outlet. An AFCI breaker identifies wiring problems before they result in short circuits or ground faults. Standard circuit breakers and fuses do not protect arc faults.

Conclusion

Learning about an electrical system is a daunting task, especially for homeowners. These terms and precautions one has to remember could be downright intimidating but fret not—professional electricians can always walk you through everything you need to know to keep you and your family safe. Even if you can’t repair any damage yourself, you’re now more knowledgeable of circuit breakers and fuses!

Are you looking for emergency electricians or a licensed electrician near you?  B Town Electric is a team of OSHA 10 certified electrical contractors keen on dealing with homes, commercial spaces, and industrial companies. With over 40 years of experience, we could be your go-to team for all your electrical needs. Get a free estimate today!