Why does my breaker keep tripping?
A breaker that trips repeatedly is doing its job — something on that circuit is overloading it or shorting. The usual suspects are a failing appliance, too many high-draw devices on one circuit, or a worn breaker. What you must not do is keep resetting it or swap in a bigger breaker: the breaker protects the wire, and upsizing it is how electrical fires start.
Likely causes
- Overloaded circuit — Space heaters, hair dryers, and microwaves on one circuit are the classic trio.
- Failing appliance — A motor going bad (fridge, AC, pump) draws surge current and trips the breaker as it dies.
- Short or ground fault — Trips instantly on reset, often with a pop or smell — wiring damage or a dead appliance.
- Worn breaker — Breakers do age out; one that trips under clearly light load may itself be the fault.
What you can check yourself
- Unplug everything on the circuit, reset once, then plug in one device at a time to find the culprit.
- Note the timing: instant trip = short; trips after minutes = overload or heat.
- Never upsize a breaker, and don't tape or wedge one on.
Typical cost
A troubleshooting visit in Denver, CO typically runs $150–$350; breaker replacement $150–$300; a new dedicated circuit $400–$900.
When to call a pro
Burning smell, scorch marks, buzzing from the panel, or a breaker that trips instantly with nothing plugged in — call an electrician, not a handyman.
Electrician pros in Denver, CO
- 30Electric LLC · 2840 Akron Ct, Denver, CO · 3035328742
- Will Can Electric · 7575 E 29th Pl, Denver, CO · +13035299160
- Lone Wolf Operating Company · 1200 17th St, Denver, CO · +17209046949
- The Speedy Electricians of Denver · 1801 California St, Denver, CO · 7206472240
- Metro Maintenance · 600 17th St Ste 2800, Denver, CO · 7203591544
- Smart Wired Inc · 600 17th St UNIT 2800, Denver, CO · +13036973336
- AAA Service Plumbing Heating & Electrical · 12 N Broadway Ste 244, Denver, CO · (866) 291-9976
- Integritas Electric · 925 E 8th Ave APT 5, Denver, CO · +17203368536
Get free quotes from Denver, CO pros →
Data by Servik — verified local pros from official license records and public sources. Cost figures are typical ranges, not quotes; a pro's written estimate is the real number.