A bad circuit breaker is more than just a nuisance, it is dangerous. It could be jeopardizing your home and family. Finding out the warning signs early on will assist you in averting costly repairs and even electrical fires. At CasPro, it is in our best interests to keep homeowners safe and informed, so here is an easy-to-follow guide on signs to watch out for and how to proceed.
What is a Bad Circuit Breaker, Anyway?
Your circuit breaker is essentially an electric traffic cop in your house. They interrupt electricity when things become overloaded and keep fires and equipment from being damaged. Like any piece of equipment, however, circuit breakers do wear out over time, particularly in older homes or heavily used equipment.
An improper circuit breaker might fail to trip when it is necessary to do so, or it could keep tripping unnecessarily for unknown reasons. Letting it go could result in critical dangers, so recognizing red flags early is crucial.
Common Symptoms Of a Bad Circuit Breaker
Frequent Tripping
If it trips regularly whether you use an appliance once or repeatedly, it could be overloaded or might be failing.
Scorch Marks or Burning Smell
A burnt smell or soot marks close to your breaker box? That is not typical. These are indicators of overheat and require attention right away.
Breaker Is Hot
A hot circuit breaker might be an indication of loose wiring or an internal malfunction. Either circumstance calls for a call to a pro.
Buzzing and humming noises
Atypical noises such as humming or buzzing indicate that the breaker is having a problem functioning properly. These noises commonly refer to a faulty breaker or a slack connection.
Flickering Lights and Appliance Breakdowns
Dimming lights and turning devices off by themselves? Perhaps it is not because of the bulb nor the appliance, but rather because of your breaker.
Age Counts
They generally last about 15-20 years, but in moist or heavy use applications, that time frame can be reduced. Have an inspection scheduled if yours is more than 20 years old.
What to Do if You Suspect a Bad Circuit Breaker
Don’t wait for it to fail. Have your panel checked by a licensed electrician if you experience any of the symptoms listed above. DIY repairs aren’t worth it; electrical work is hazardous if it’s done without proper equipment and training.
At CasPro, we provide quick, expert service and safety-conscious solutions. Whether it’s replacing a breaker or a complete panel upgrade, our staff is here to assist you in keeping your house energized safely.
Call CasPro today for a trustworthy assessment or repair if anything feels amiss!
