Resetting a Tripped Circuit Breaker
A circuit breaker is a switch inside your breaker box that monitors the flow of electricity on a circuit and turns off or trips if the circuit becomes damaged or overloaded. If the circuit is not damaged, running too many high-amp electrical appliances at a time is often the cause of a tripped breaker. If an electrical overload is the problem, unplugging any unnecessary appliances and resetting the circuit breaker will typically correct it.
Before touching a breaker box, make sure your hands are dry and that your feet are on a dry surface. Wear safety glasses to protect from sparks. Installing a new circuit breaker or replacing an old one is a job for a licensed electrician and may require a permit. Failure to take proper precautions and observe electrical codes when working with electrical components can result in fires, serious electrical shock or death. An electrician can best determine if a circuit breaker needs to be replaced and what type is required for your home.