What is a Circuit Breaker?

By definition; a Circuit Breaker is an electrical switch designed to be an electrical safety device in your Service Panel or a Sub Panel; which will automatically interrupt an overloaded electrical circuit, detect and shutdown ground faults, as well as any short circuits throughout your home.

Where would you locate a Circuit Breaker in your home?

Any Circuit Breakers in your residence are contained in your home’s "Service Panels" or "Breaker Boxes", as they are most often referred to.

The Main Service Panel is usually located on the exterior of the residence, and contains the Circuit Breakers that control the electricity that comes in from the City power pole, and disperses it into; and throughout the home.

There are also Interior Service Panels or Sub Panels; that contain Circuit Breakers which control the electrical currents that flow throughout the circuitry of the residence to any appliances, outlets, switches…etc. These are typically located inside your home.

Chances are you’ve heard the term “Tripping Breaker” before. If you haven’t, a Breaker “Trip” is when the circuit's internal sensor becomes overheated, and the breaker shuts off the power to prevent further overheating of that Circuit Breaker to prevent any further damage, such as fires.

What causes Circuit Breakers to Trip?

·       Overloading the Circuit:

One of the most common reasons for a Circuit Breaker trip; is due to overloading the Circuit. This happens when you have multiple high powered items plugged into and on the same Circuit Breaker; causing it to draw more electrical current than the Circuit can handle. As a result, it will shut off the Breaker causing it to “Trip”.

Typically, you will require a dedicated Circuit for some larger appliances; such as Treadmills, Freezers, Ovens/ Cooktops/ Ranges…etc. to keep from overloading some circuits. A dedicated Circuit is just that, a Circuit that is dedicated to a particular appliance. 

·       Bad / Failed Circuit Breakers:

Sometimes, the Circuit Breaker itself can go bad and fail. This is a fairly common occurrence with voltage surges and electrical spikes that come into the residence. These type of events can cause an electrical circuit breaker to become weaker over time, and eventually fail. When this occurs, the Circuit Breaker would require replacement.

·       Failing Outlet/ Switch/ Failing Appliance:

Other times, you may have an issue with an outlet that needs repair/ replacement, or the culprit might possibly an appliance that requires repairs; causing the tripping Circuit Breaker. No need to worry, as this means your electrical system is doing what it is meant to do. However, if you have a Circuit Breaker that continues to trip often, you should have a licensed and experienced electrician come out and troubleshoot the issue and make the needed repairs. 

·       Aging Service Panels:

If your Service panels are aging, they can potentially pose a safety risk. Older panels may work efficiently for a long time, however with newer technologies, larger homes, home offices…etc, they will require upgrades or replacements at some point. Upgrading or replacing your current Service Panels not only raises your level of Safety, but also makes certain your electrical system will be compatible with the National Electrical Code Compliance; as well as any current contemporary dwelling needs. 

Anytime you experience Breaker Trips, diagnosing the problem will often require some troubleshooting to detect the source of the issue, so the electrician can make the needed repairs. An experienced and licensed electrician is your best bet for these needed repairs. Anytime a Circuit Breaker is compromised, there is a potential fire/ safety issue.

The Electricians at Bolt Electric in San Antonio; understand the importance of keeping the heart of your home, your Service Panels; maintained for safety and Code Compliance. Upgrading/ replacing panels, or troubleshooting various residential electrical issues are our specialty as Maintenance and Repair

Quick Helpful Tip ~ Keep the Service Panel area clear:



Your Service Panel needs proper ventilation to disperse any heat that is generated within the box itself. You will want to make sure there is sufficient clearance around the panel, and avoid covering the panel at all costs. Making certain your Service panel has room to breathe; will not only prolong the lifespan of your panel, it also minimizes the risk of your panel overheating and causing a fire.

Commonly asked Questions:

Here at Bolt Electric, we get asked a lot of questions in regards to Circuit Breaker issues.

Here are a few; along with some answers that we hope help out!

Question: How long do Panels/ Breakers usually last?

Answer:Service Panels can have a lifespan of up to 40 years, but to keep up any needed repairs as well as with the National Electrical Code; an occasional upgrading would be advised.

A quick inspection by one of Bolt Electric’s Technicians can determine what is required for your service panel to be in tip top shape and up to code!

Question: How long should you wait to reset a Tripped Circuit Breaker?

Answer: You should wait a few seconds if the breaker has just tripped. Waiting a few seconds will allow the electrical system to stabilize before you restore the power.

Question: If a Circuit Breaker is overloaded, can it cause a fire?

Answer: Absolutely, yes. Overloaded circuits can generate excess heat inside a Service Panel and can potentially start fires. Correcting this issue is highly important for safety.

Question:Is my Service Panel old and in need of replacement?

Answer: There are several discontinued models that require full replacements. If you have one of the following, then the answer is most definitely yes! = Federal Pacific/ ZINSCO/GTE-Sylvania Panels

Question: Is it safe to upgrade/ replace my electrical box on my own?

Answer: The short answer is No, it is not advised to upgrade your electrical box yourself.

Any upgrades needed for your Electrical Service Panel would require the skillset of an experienced and licensed electrician to perform. It is the current law in Texas to have a licensed professional; who understands the current electrical code and safety protocols for Service Panel upgrades/ replacements to perform these tasks. Licensed electrical contractors work in conjunction with the City, as well as the Utility to make certain of code compliance and Safety!

We here at Bolt Electric in San Antonio; hope the information in this blog helps you to

better understand the significance of your Circuit Breakers and Service Panels,

and a bit more about how they function in and throughout your home.

If you’re experiencing Circuit Breaker Trips, or experiencing issues

with your Electrical Service Panels, we’re here to help!

If you’re needing assistance to troubleshoot tripping Circuits, add new Dedicated Circuits, or install Whole Home Surge Protection to be up to electrical code, look no further.

Bolt Electric in San Antonio can assist with these needs and so much more.

BOLT ELECTRIC, LLC

18847 REDLAND ROAD, SUITE # 105

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS 78259

(210) 545-BOLT (2658)