DIY guideBreaker panel
Reset a tripped breaker
Get the power back on a circuit that tripped, and know when not to try.
- 5 to 10 min
- 5 steps
- Every step animated
5 steps
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Switch off or unplug the things on the circuit that lost power, especially heaters, kettles and hair dryers.
Open the panel's door. A tripped breaker sits in the middle or at Off, out of line with the others.
Only open the small door: never take the panel's cover off. Stand on a dry floor with dry hands.Push the handle firmly all the way to Off, then back to On. It should click into place.
Turn things back on one at a time. If one trips it again, leave that one off.
If the breaker won't stay on, or you see scorch marks, smell burning or hear buzzing, don't keep resetting it. Ask Handyman for an electrician.
A breaker that keeps tripping is protecting you from a fault.
What you need
- A flashlight
Call a pro if
- It trips again right away, even with everything unplugged
- You smell burning, see scorch marks or hear buzzing
- The panel feels warm, or there's water near it
Handyman says: Leave it off. I'll find an electrician.
Free for every home. Handyman asks a few questions, then books a pro it trusts.
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