At Scherer Electric, we know how frustrating electrical issues can be, especially when you’re not sure where the problem is coming from. Many homeowners don’t realize that the circuit breaker itself can go bad over time. And when it does, it can cause serious inconveniences, or worse, a safety hazard. That’s why we’re here to help you understand the warning signs and know when it’s time to act. After all, we’ve spent years servicing circuit breakers in Amherst, NY, so we’ve seen it all—and fixed it all.
What Does a Circuit Breaker Do?
Before we get into the signs of a failing breaker, let’s talk about its job. Your circuit breaker protects your home from electrical overloads and short circuits. When it senses a dangerous surge or fault, it “trips,” cutting power to the affected circuit. That prevents damage to your appliances, and more importantly, keeps your family safe.
But like any other electrical component, breakers can wear out or fail over time. That’s why it’s so important to recognize the warning signs before a small issue becomes a major safety concern.
Signs Your Circuit Breaker May Be Going Bad
1. Frequent Tripping
If a breaker trips occasionally, that’s normal. It’s doing its job. But if the same breaker keeps tripping over and over without a clear cause, it may be failing internally. This can indicate a weak connection, worn-out components, or internal overheating. You shouldn’t have to keep resetting the same breaker multiple times a week, because it’s a clear sign that something’s wrong.
2. Breaker Won’t Stay Reset
Tried resetting the breaker, and it immediately trips again—even when there’s no load? That could point to a bad breaker or a deeper wiring issue. Either way, it’s time to have it checked.
3. Burning Smell or Discoloration
If you notice a burning odor coming from your panel, or you see black marks or melted plastic around a breaker, shut off the power and call an electrician immediately. These are clear signs of overheating and possible fire risk.
4. Physical Damage
A breaker should always feel firm and secure. If it’s cracked, loose, or wiggles in the panel, it’s not safe. Physical damage often signals internal wear, and you don’t want to wait until it fails.
5. Breaker Feels Hot
Warm is normal. Hot is not. If a breaker feels hot to the touch, it may be overloaded or faulty. This is not something to ignore: it’s a sign that something isn’t working as it should. Hot breakers can be an early sign of a potentially dangerous overload that needs professional attention.
Don’t Take Chances with Your Electrical System
A bad circuit breaker doesn’t just cause annoying power interruptions—it puts your entire home at risk. Electrical issues can escalate quickly if left unchecked.
If you’re experiencing any of the signs above, don’t try to diagnose it alone. At Scherer Electric, we specialize in troubleshooting, repairing, and replacing faulty breakers. We’ll inspect your panel, identify the problem, and make sure everything is working safely and efficiently.
