How to Fix a Power Trip at Home

What Causes a Power Trip?

A power trip occurs when your circuit breaker automatically cuts off electricity to prevent damage or fire. Common causes include:

• Circuit overload (too many appliances running)
• Short circuit
• Ground fault
• Faulty appliances

Steps to Fix a Power Trip

1. Initial Safety Check

• Turn off all appliances in the affected area
• Check for burning smells or visible damage
• Ensure your hands are dry

2. Locate Your Switchboard

Find your home's switchboard/circuit breaker panel. It's usually near the entrance or in the garage.

3. Identify the Tripped Circuit

Look for a switch that's in a different position from the others or has a red indicator showing.

4. Reset the Circuit Breaker

1. Turn the switch fully OFF
2. Wait 30 seconds
3. Turn it back ON firmly

Prevention Tips

• Don't overload power points
• Distribute high-power appliances across different circuits
• Replace old or damaged electrical cords
• Schedule regular electrical inspections

When to Call an Electrician

Contact a professional electrician if:

• The circuit breaker trips repeatedly
• You notice burning smells or sparks
• There's any sign of electrical damage
• You're unsure about the cause