Do key appliances and electrical devices in your home keep shutting off abruptly? A blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker might be to blame. What do tripped circuit breakers and blown fuses indicate and how can you prevent them?
The experts at ESD LLC explain everything you need to know in this informative guide.
Common Causes of a Tripped Breaker or Blown Fuse
Say your air conditioner suddenly loses power but all of the other electrical devices in your home work just fine. The circuit breaker or electrical fuse powering the air conditioner interrupts the current to prevent a short circuit and other damage to the system. Tripped breakers or blown fuses help keep you safe but can be frustrating to deal with.
Homeowners typically encounter this issue due to the following:
- Overloading currents from high-powered appliances
- Faulty wiring
- Moisture within the system
You must determine the underlying problem surrounding your tripped breaker or blown fuse. For example, if the wiring is to blame, you’ll need to find out if it needs replacement due to old age or if rodents chew through it and cause damage.
What Do Tripped Circuit Breakers Indicate?
When the same appliances or devices keep shutting off because the circuit breaker trips or a fuse blows, it can be cause for concern. What do tripped circuit breakers and blown fuses indicate? This issue occurs because your electrical panel is trying to prevent an electrical overload, which could lead to sparks and an electrical fire.
A brown fuse or tripped circuit breaker indicates some type of ground fault within your system. It’s up to you to pinpoint the direct cause and address it so you can avoid this issue going forward.
Tips for Preventing Electrical Faults
Never ignore power failure due to tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses. To safeguard your home and prevent electrical faults, keep the following tips in mind.
Stop Overloading Outlets
If you operate your refrigerator and air conditioner from the same outlet or extension cord, you stand a higher risk of overloading the system. Research the maximum amperage of all your electrical devices and keep high-powered appliances on separate sockets. Avoid stuffing extension cords with plugs since this can also cause a short circuit.
Replace Dangerous Wiring
Frayed or damaged wiring poses serious safety risks and triggers your breaker or fuse to stop the current. Be on the lookout for compromised wiring and replace it immediately.
Perform Device Maintenance
Some household appliances, such as air conditioners, will use more electricity if you don’t maintain them. Routine maintenance may include:
- Changing air filters
- Cleaning internal components
- Adjusting thermostats
- And more
Discover Residential and Commercial Electrical Solutions – Contact ESD LLC
It’s common to have questions about your property’s electrical system and how it functions. While you no longer have to wonder, “What do tripped circuit breakers and blown fuses indicate?” you might want to learn more about the equipment that powers your home or office.
That’s where we come in. ESD LLC offers a wide range of electrical products, including circuit breakers and accessories. Contact us at (425) 419-4167. We’re ready to help.
