Breaker Keeps Tripping? Causes, Fixes & Replacement Cost

A breaker that trips when you run a space heater, microwave or hair dryer is usually an overloaded circuit: move some of the load to another circuit. One that trips instantly on reset points to a short circuit or ground fault, and one that trips with almost nothing running may be a worn breaker. Replacing a breaker typically costs $100–$400, most often $150–$300.

Fix this weekDIY: Easy15–30 minutes to testPro: $100–$400

Last reviewed September 2026

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Check 1 of 12Testing: Breaker tripping

Try this

Unplug things and reset the breaker

Unplug everything on the dead circuit, push the tripped breaker firmly to off, then back to on.

Signs it's this problem

The breaker trips when a certain appliance turns on
It trips again as soon as you reset it
It trips even with little plugged in
The breaker feels warm or smells burnt

Why it happens

Each breaker protects its wires from overheating by cutting power when more current flows than the wire can safely carry. Too many devices on one circuit, a damaged cord or appliance (short), or a breaker weakened by age and repeated trips all make it cut out.

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How to fix it, step by step

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1.Unplug or switch off everything on the dead circuit.
2.At the panel, find the breaker sitting in the middle or off position. Push it firmly to off, then back to on.
3.Plug devices back in one at a time. If it trips when a particular appliance starts, that appliance or the load is the problem.
4.Move high-draw appliances (space heaters, microwaves, hair dryers) to a different circuit.
5.If it trips instantly with everything unplugged, stop resetting it and call an electrician: that's a short or ground fault in the wiring.
6.If the breaker is hot, buzzing or scorched, leave it off and call an electrician.

Safety: Never replace a breaker with a larger one to stop the tripping; the wire could overheat and start a fire. Stand to the side and keep hands dry when working at the panel.

Breaker Keeps Tripping? Causes, Fixes & Replacement Cost cost

US national ranges for professional work, including labor and materials
Job	Typical cost
Replace a standard breaker (most pay $150–$300)	$100–$400
Electrician diagnostic fee	$75–$125
Breaker part (standard, AFCI or GFCI)	$5–$250

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Repair typeQuote amount (USD)

Typical professional price for this job: $100–$400

Common questions

Is it dangerous if a breaker keeps tripping?

The breaker is doing its job, but repeated trips mean something is wrong. An overload is easily fixed by spreading the load; instant trips or a hot breaker need an electrician.

How many times can I reset a tripped breaker?

Reset it once after unplugging things. If it trips again right away, don't keep resetting it; find the cause or call an electrician.