Breaker Tripping?

How often do you experience a tripping Circuit Breaker in your home? Most days, our electrical systems just do what they do, without the slightest worry from us, until we notice an outlet or light fixture that isn’t working; and then find a circuit breaker has tripped in the panel, which is quite inconvenient to say the least.

What causes these type of issues? There are several culprits that can cause Circuit Breakers to Trip, however one of the most noticeable issues; is water.

Rainy weather, water damage, leaky roof…all water related issues that can foul your outlets/ service panel/ and cause a circuit breaker to trip. Electricity and water are not friends, and can cause a whole slew of issues to your home’s electrical system.

Since we’re at the front of Hurricane season here in San Antonio and South Texas, we should start looking for issues before the rains start.

Performing a few brief inspections in and around your San Antonio home, can be quite beneficial in making certain your home’s electrical circuitry is in tip top shape. A few ideas of what to check on…

·        Check on all exterior outlets, to make certain they are both GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) and weather protected. A GFCI outlet protects you from electrocution and it contains a small circuit breaker that trips when it detects a short circuit. A weather proof cover will keep moisture out of the outlet so it will keep it safe from causing a short and tripping your breaker. 

**Pro Tip: You should also make certain no sprinklers are directed right at any exterior outlets as well, just to be on the safe side!

·        Check on any Extension Cords you’re using for exterior plug ins as well. Extension cords can become nicked or frayed, as well as water fouled and if the plug end becomes loosed, can also short out and…you guessed it, trip your circuit breaker.

**Pro Tip:  Always make certain any extension cords used are rated for the correct Indoor or Outdoor usage. They make them both for a reason, and you should never use Extension Cords as a permanent solution for a plug in.

·        Check your attic/ roof for any leaks. A Leaky roof can damage so much more than just what is in your attic. If water finds its way into an electrical junction box, switch, or light fixture in the attic, it can cause a fire!

**Pro Tip: How do you tell if you have water leaks in the attic? Look at the attic flooring and the bottom of the rafters for water stains. Look at the insulation to see if it looks wet or moldy. Take a walk through your home as well and look for water stains or mold on the ceilings and at your home's exterior walls.

·        Check on any Pool or Spa equipment to make certain they are functioning properly, as these items can also be a culprit. In the event there’s a defective pump/ motor, etc…that will certainly trip a breaker!

**Pro Tip: You should make certain your Hot Tub is GFCI Breaker Protected.

·        Check any exterior light fixtures. Most homes in San Antonio are decorated with outdoor lighting. Whether they’re flood lights to protect our homes, or landscaping lighting to light up walkways, they too can become damaged by people, animals, or outdoor elements and can cause breaker tripping issues as well.

**Pro Tip: Always make certain you're using the correct bulbs rated for any specific exterior light fixtures. Bulbs that made to be used indoors will not function well when exposed to moisture.

We here at Bolt Electric in San Antonio hope this blog gives you a good idea of what to look for on the front end, so you can keep from dealing with pesky water issues tripping your breakers.

In the event you do need electrical repairs in San Antonio, we’re here to help! We specialize in both Commercial and Residential Electrical Maintenance and Repair in San Antonio and we can’t wait to work with you! Contact us today!

BOLT ELECTRIC, LLC

18847 REDLAND ROAD, SUITE 105

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS 78259

(210) 545-2658