5 Warning Signs Your Circuit Breaker Needs to Be Replaced

In short, circuit breakers are designed to "trip" or shut off power to a particular circuit when there’s too much electricity flowing through the respective wires. This helps prevent overheating, fires, and damaged appliances. But here’s the thing: circuit breakers don’t last forever.

Circuit breakers wear down over time, and this leaves your home or business vulnerable. The good news is that there are some clear warning signs to look out for.

In this brief article brought to you by Mr. Electric, we break down the five most ominous signs that you may need a circuit breaker replacement. It is always advisable to leave electrical work to licensed professionals.

SIGN 1: The Circuit Keeps Tripping OFF

Sure, a breaker might trip every once in a while - like if you’re running the air fryer, the microwave, and the dishwasher all at once. But if it feels like your breakers are tripping anytime you do anything - even with normal use - then you've got a red flag.

This is a strong sign that the breaker itself is worn out and no longer handling the current. Or it could mean your wiring or circuits are overloaded. Either way, it’s a sign that you should have a certified electrician take a closer look.

SIGN 2: The Smell of Plastic or Rubber Burning

Electrical wires carry incredible amounts of electricity, and that energy can get HOT! If the insulation covering the wiring is damaged or starts melting, then you've got a fire hazard on your hands.

Don't touch unless you know how to safely shut off the power. Otherwise, evacuate the property ASAP and call an electrician to investigate as soon as you smell burning plastic or burning rubber around the circuit breaker.

SIGN 3: Breakers That Won’t Stay ON

Right after a breaker trips, you should be able to flip it fully OFF and back ON to get back in business. But if you reset it and it immediately trips again - or refuses to stay in the ON position - then STOP trying to force it!

The circuit breaker is made to cut power when there's an issue in the electrical system. Forcing electricity through damaged wiring is a bad idea. Have an electrician in Manor, TX come in and investigate. Sometimes replacing the circuit breaker itself will be enough.

SIGN 4: Buzzing or Popping Noises

Electrical panels and the circuit breaker inside should be quiet. If you hear buzzing, crackling, or popping sounds coming from in or around your electrical panel, then it might mean there’s a loose connection, internal damage, or arcing (when electricity jumps between contacts).

None of these are even remotely 'minor' issues. This kind of problem can cause major damage or even lead to fire in the blink of an eye. Arcing can even cause shocks, injury, or worse. Call an electrician ASAP.

SIGN 5: The Panel is Old or Outdated

Let's face it: old is not as good as new. Even if your breakers seem to be working fine, there's a lot that's changed in 30 years. Older panels, for example, were not made to accommodate a modern home's electricity demand. Even if they were, there are so many advanced features and benefits in the latest models.

Think about installing an electric vehicle charging station? Adding rooms or expanding your square footage? Make sure your electrical panel can handle the load.

Call Mr. Electric For Electrical Needs

Whether you need an emergency electrical repair or a sophisticated electrical installation, one thing's for certain: The work should be done by a reputable and certified electrician.

Mr. Electric is a licensed, insured, and established company. The uniformed team at Mr. Electric is background-checked, regularly trained, and periodically evaluated.

Our upfront price quotes and 1-year workmanship guarantee should give you the peace of mind you are looking for. Call or message us today to learn more.