If your electrics keep tripping, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common issues we hear about. It can be frustrating, but it’s also an important safety feature designed to protect your home and family.
Here’s a quick guide to help you understand why it might be happening and what you can do about it.
Common Causes of Tripping Electrics
Overloaded Circuits
Plugging in too many devices on one circuit can overload it, causing the system to trip. Look for heavy-use appliances like kettles, toasters, or heaters operating at the same time.
Faulty Appliances
A damaged or faulty appliance can cause a short circuit. To check, unplug all devices, reset your breaker, and plug them back in one by one.
Wiring Issues
Older homes or DIY electrical work can lead to wiring problems that cause intermittent tripping. These require a professional to investigate.
Moisture in Electrical Systems
Damp conditions can cause water to get into sockets or wiring, leading to short circuits. This is common in outdoor areas or older properties.
RCD Sensitivity
Residual Current Devices (RCDs) are sensitive to imbalances in electrical flow. Sometimes, they can trip due to cumulative smaller issues rather than a single fault.
What Should You Do?
Step 1: Unplug all appliances and reset your breaker.
Step 2: Plug items back in one at a time to identify if an appliance is the issue.
Step 3: If the issue persists, avoid DIY fixes and call a qualified electrician to investigate.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve ruled out appliances and overloading but the problem continues, it could indicate a deeper issue with your wiring or circuits. As fully qualified and approved electricians, we’re here to help diagnose and resolve the problem quickly and safely.